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Something’s up at Lake Conway, and residents across Faulkner County are paying close attention. From unusual water levels to the ongoing drawdown project, locals have taken to Facebook to ask the big question:

“What exactly is happening at Lake Conway right now?”

The group saw a surge of posts and comments over the past few weeks, with folks sharing photos, updates, and even speculation about everything from fish relocation efforts to rumors of drainage issues.

🛠️ It’s All Part of a Major Restoration Project

According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), the changes at Lake Conway are intentional and part of a long-planned drawdown and renovation project.

In 2023, AGFC announced a plan to drain the 6,700-acre lake — the largest man-made game and fish commission lake in the country — in order to:

  • Remove decades of built-up sediment
  • Improve fish habitat
  • Rebuild boat ramps and infrastructure
  • Control aquatic vegetation and invasive species

🔗 Read the full AGFC announcement

📸 What Locals Are Seeing

Residents have shared photos of:

  • Dry and cracked lakebeds
  • Abandoned stumps and fishing structures
  • Unusual wildlife movement near the shore
  • A “ghost town” feel around some boat ramps and piers

Some voiced concerns about mosquitoes, property values, and recreation being affected. Others welcomed the project as long overdue.

“It looks wild out there, but if it helps the lake bounce back better — I’m all for it,” one commenter wrote.

🐟 What About the Fish?

AGFC is coordinating fish salvage and relocation efforts, especially for sport fish like bass and crappie. The lake won’t be fully restocked until after renovations are complete.

Until then, the agency recommends catch-and-release in certain areas and adheres to posted signage. More on that here:
🔗 Lake Conway Renovation FAQs

📅 How Long Will It Last?

AGFC anticipates the drawdown phase lasting several years, with the refill and restocking phase potentially beginning in 2026 or later. Local officials are urging patience — and promising a better lake for future generations.

🧭 Visiting the Area

While water recreation is limited, the Lake Conway area still offers:

Just make sure to follow all safety signage and closures posted by AGFC and city officials.

📣 Want to Stay Updated?

Keep track of Lake Conway’s progress via these official sources:

Lake Conway may look a little rough right now — but as one longtime angler put it, “Sometimes you’ve got to tear it down to build it back right.”

Updated:

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