• January 1st 2009: 1053.41 feet above sea level
• December 31st 2009: 1070.95 feet above sea level
• Result: Lake Lanier rose 17.54 feet during 2009

I know a lot of us have had a rough time in 2009, but one thing has been indisputably wonderful ... our lake is back. A lot of local business and residents didn't dare dream that 2009 would be so positive. In a poor economy, that 17.54 feet is one big, bright ray of sunshine.

Happy New Year everyone!