Hume Lake expected to be emptied for dam repairs

HUME LAKE, Calif. (KFSN) -- A popular Sierra lake is expected to be emptied later this year.

The views are spectacular and those who come to enjoy Hume Lake often travel from far away. Action News caught up with the Nath family, who drove up from San Diego to experience the local treasure. "It's very beautiful," said Radhika Nath.

In five months, visitors can expect no water at the Lake. The majority of the water will be released to Tenmile Creek and the Kings River.

"It will actually be released back into the environment and it will be benefiting the forest, but overall it won't actually be affecting any hydroelectric projects or agriculture uses," said Hume Lake District Ranger Teresa Benson.

Inspectors noticed cracks at the bottom of the concrete dam in 2012. Benson told us the repairs are necessary and there is no way to store the current supply while workers fix the foundation.

"You would essentially need to build almost a secondary large size structure pond that was the size of the lake to be able to store that much water," said Benson.

The nearby private campground relies on some of the lake's water, but the facility is banking a supply to prepare for the closure. Even though the lake will shut down for a few months, people like the Naths say taking care of the dam now will keep it strong for years to come. "I think the responsibility of this generation and of us is to try to preserve it so the next generation gets to enjoy it," said Campak Nath.

Park rangers expect the lake to be refilled and ready for use in early 2016.