Storms helping refill Madera County lake thats been dry due to drought

MADERA COUNTY (KFSN) -- Recent storms that have created heavy rainfall in the foothills are helping refill several lakes that have been dry due to the drought.

The water levels at Yosemite Lakes Park are finally on the rise. Four years of drought drained the water and the fish out of several lakes in this Madera County community. But now the Yosemite Lakes Owners' Association is working with an aquaculture expert to restock the lake. "We've only put in a few hundred fish. We've started off with Channel Catfish, Crappie, and Bluegill. Later on, we will introduce other fish like Bass and Mosquitofish and Red Ear," said Tammie D'amore, Yosemite Lakes Owners' Association.

But residents at the lake shouldn't grab their fishing poles just yet. No fishing signs are posted along the shore. That's because the fish are too small to catch. "Right now, we have to start off slow. These are breeder fish. About summer time they will be about a pound. And hopefully, we can start letting some of the kids in here and fish a little bit," said D'amore.

People who live and visit Yosemite Lakes Park are happy to see the lake full again. Many can't wait to use the lake for fishing and other recreation activities. "We like to bring our little paddle boat out here and come and sit over there on the blenches," said Wade Hatch, Yosemite Lakes Park.

"In the morning when I get here, the mist is on the lake. And the geese and the ducks are out there. It is just beautiful," said Jodi Snyder, Oakhurst.

Officials said they will make a decision later on in June or July to let residents know when fishing will be allowed again.