GLASGOW, Ky. — The Barren River State Dock will delay its opening this season due to low lake levels, according to a recent social media post from Rubright Marinas.

Rubright Marinas, which oversees operations at the state dock marina on Barren River Lake, said an additional 8 feet of water is still needed to safely move marinas into place and allow for safe navigation.

The Barren River State Dock and Peninsula Marina are now expected to open May 1. Boat rentals will follow, with a projected opening date of May 15.

“We apologize heavily for the inconvenience this will cause our customers, but unfortunately, we have no choice but to wait,” Rubright Marinas said.

Barren River Lake remains about 13 feet below summer pool, which is 552 feet above mean sea level. At this time last year, the lake level stood at 585.89 feet MSL following historic spring flooding.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has closed the dam in an effort to help stabilize and refill the lake, according to Rubright Marinas.

“We are currently at minimum flow. We started holding water in the middle of March and with normal rainfall we should be at summer pool by the middle of April,” a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Louisville District spokesperson said. “Due to the lack of rainfall, we are still a little over 12 feet below our summer pool level of 552’ MSL.”

Officials say the lack of rainfall has been a major factor in the lower water levels this season. By contrast, the lake reached record-high levels last year after extended spring rainfall.

Questions about the marina can be directed to Rubright Marinas at 615-452-9876 or 615-206-8451, or by email at victoria@rubrightmarinas.com.