BASS LAKE — Bass Lake water levels are projected to be lower than normal this summer — yet higher than last year — due to the critically dry year. PG&E is managing water at Bass Lake to balance the needs of recreation, the environment, power generation and downstream water users.
PG&E recognizes the importance of higher lake levels during the recreation season for Bass Lake and Madera County. Despite the third consecutive dry year, Bass Lake is expected to top-off within 3 feet of normal.
Little to no significant impacts are anticipated for the lake’s two public concrete boat ramps and commercial marinas.
PG&E urges boaters to be vigilant, exercise caution and maintain safe speeds and distances from other watercraft as lower elevation means:
- less water surface area to share with other boaters.
- submerged objects are closer to the surface than in higher water level years.
Total precipitation for the season to date in the San Joaquin Basin is 65% of average, and the spring runoff is forecast to be 46% of average due to the dry and warm conditions.
Image by Christelle Prieur.
This year, PG&E projects Bass Lake levels will reach approximately 3,369 feet elevation by July 1, and approximately 3,368 feet by Labor Day. PG&E works to maintain water levels through Labor Day so more water is available for recreation.
PG&E Encourages the Public to Take Appropriate Safety Precautions When Recreating in and Near Water
- Obey all warning signs and restrictive buoys while swimming or boating.
- Use the “buddy system.” Never fish, swim, boat or raft alone.
- Don’t dive or jump into unfamiliar water. Shallow water or submerged trees or rocks could cause serious injury.
About PG&E
PG&E, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news.
Less water means a more crowded lake, so let’s be extra careful out there!
