Valley welcomes first day of spring

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A lot of families headed to Millerton Lake Sunday to enjoy the beautiful weather on the first full day of spring.

"Just a nice day to get out and spring break just started for the kids," Dan Houtsinger of Clovis said.

While Houstinger wrapped up a long day out at his daughter Isabella caught a little shut-eye while his son Bennett had enough energy to tell us about their time on the water.

"We were like fishing and doing donuts and spinning around in a circle," Bennet said.

He was not the only one having a little fun. Like every big brother, Nicholas Contreras had only one reason for splashing water on his little sister.

"It's funny when she starts screaming," he said.

Park officials say Millerton Lake was packed with families like the Contreras' and Houstinger's on the first day of spring.

Some were out fishing, others caught a few waves while on the boat, but the large crowd drew a lot of business for places like The Pizza Factory just down the road.

"It was super busy," Haylie Lardner with the restaurant said. "We ran out of dough in the back and night shift had to do it. Summer is definitely nearing, it's like coming early and I'm not complaining."

Park Ranger Mark Deleon says with Easter weekend quickly approaching, his staff is preparing for even more people. He wants to remind folks coming out of safety tips to keep in mind.

"If you're not a good swimmer, always think about having a life vest handy," Deleon said. "We also recommend limiting your alcohol intake while you're boating."

He says limit what you leave on the ground too.

"You bring it here, you take it home," he said. "But the general rule is pack it in, pack it out."

On Easter Sunday, the park will start its summer schedule, opening at 6 a.m. and closing at 10 p.m.