Low water levels on Lake Freeman have spurred an economic impact study. Leaders are calling the move a preventative measure to protect local government.
Executive Director for Carroll County Economic Development Corporation Jacob Adams said the study will emphasize how important Lake Freeman is to the local economy.
"Our concern is reduced water levels over time, does it have an impact on our basic functions as a government," said Adams.
Adams said Jefferson Township, which mostly encompasses Lake Freeman, is nearly 25% of Carroll County's assessed value.
"We understand that the reduced water levels are to protect an endangered species and rightfully so," said Adams. "Our goal isn't to necessarily diminish that decision but to merely look at it from a holistic point of view."
