Clarksville mayor addresses state effort to drain Swan Lake. [Video]

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Members of a Middle Tennessee community are speaking out this week about a state plan to possibly drain Swan Lake in Dunbar Cave State Park.

On Tuesday, leaders with the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation held a special forum to hear from residents about their plan.

The body of water has a long history in the area and many who live nearby are passionate that it should remain, according to Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts.

The proposed change is part of a long-range strategic management plan.

“Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has a 10-year plan that they’re working on. It’s in draft form,” said Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts.

Pitts said one part of the plan is pushing to essentially drain the lake.

“It would convert it into a creek and a natural area to provide for additional parking,” Pitts said.

After Tuesday’s forum, Mayor Pitts …