The drought conditions in Fresno County’s mountains are the worst on record since 1976. Despite that, folks in Big Creek are carrying an attitude of prosperity rather than defeat.
Southern California Edison played host to a community meeting Thursday night. They provided an honest assessment to business owners so they can make smart decisions in the coming months.
“We are in this drought together,” said Cal Rossi of Southern California Edison.
The data shows rainfall is just 40% of normal this season and the snowpack is only 31%. But as Cal Rossi points out, the wet weather season still isn’t over.
“Ultimately, mother nature is the arbiter of how we move forward,” said Rossi.
June through September is when lake levels are typically at their highest. Shaver Lake is projected to only be half full this summer.
“We’ve had some hard years, but nothing like this,” said David Newton, owner of Rancheria Enterprises.
David newton has run a marina at Huntington Lake the last 15 years. Right now, boat rentals are not shaping up to be a hot commodity.
“You have to stay positive about it, you can’t just lie down and die,” said Newton.
A helping of optimism is being cooked up at Shaver Coffee and Deli as well.
“As long as there’s water in the lake, people will still come up, especially when it gets to 105 down in the valley,” said Norman Kato, owner of Shaver Coffee and Deli.
There may not be as much water as we would all like, but the high country still offers a nice escape filled with beautiful scenery and fresh air.
“There are still hiking trails available up here, there’s still camping opportunities and in fact there still is water in the lakes. So come on up, bring your fishing pole and enjoy yourself,” said Rossi.
The other X factor in this drought that everyone is aware of is wildfires, which could shut down roads and prevent tourists from coming up to the mountains at all.