Those hoping to observe the fall foliage from a boat at Beltzville Lake this weekend will have to bring a kayak.

The state park's two boat launches have been closed because of low water levels, according to a press release from the lake's superintendent.One of the reasons for the low water levels is that the lake is used to control droughts in the Delaware River basin, something that has been done for decades.The lake's water level, measured in elevation above sea level, is normally around 633 feet. This week, the level dropped below 613 feet, which is the minimum depth needed to use the Pine Run Boat Launch, park superintendent Devin Buzard said in the press release.The Preachers Camp launch, which needs the water to be about 623 feet, has also been closed in recent weeks.The launches won't be reopened until water levels return to minimum levels.Of course the rest of the 3,000 acre state park is still open for hiking, picnicking and fishing.The area has seen mild drought conditions recently. Carbon, Monroe, Lehigh and Northampton counties were placed under a drought warning on Thursday."Below-normal precipitation across most of the state has resulted in instantaneous stream flows declining in the central and eastern part of the state," DEP Acting Secretary Patrick McDonnell said. "We're asking residents to continue to conserve water in order to preserve adequate drinking water supplies."The cause may have just as much to do with drought conditions elsewhere as it does here. One of the lake's stated goals is to provide drought control for the Delaware River Basin Commission. Over the past few days, Beltzville has been used to increase low water levels around Trenton, New Jersey.Fishermen at the lake on Friday said that the water levels are abnormally low.The shores of the lake were clearly visible, and even some boxes that fishermen said were placed to serve as shelter for catfish."I've never seen it this low. That island is usually under 10 feet of water," said Bob DiDomizio, who has been fishing Beltzville for more than 30 years.DiDomizio was one of several fishermen who were fishing from shore Friday instead of from their boats. He said that as the water level gets lower on the boat ramp, drivers need to take more risks to get their boats in the water."I was supposed to bring the boat. You'll end up having your boat pull you into the water," he said.Boaters looking for more information about the closures are asked to call the park office at 610-377-0045.