This story from the Bee Sunday, relates to the often hidden, except to the users denied optimal use, after-effects of high water which can ruin the integrity of parks.
This is also occurring on the Parkway, and once the high-water of the past several months recede, we will see the results.
Here is an excerpt.
Folsom Lake awash in debris from storms
By M.S. Enkoji -- Bee Staff Writer Published 2:15 am PST Sunday, March 26, 2006
Yes, spring has arrived, but if you bought a new motorboat expecting to rev up on Folsom Lake, you may want to keep it in the driveway for now.
The recent wave of storms across the region has caused driftwood and other manner of refuse to wash into the man-made reservoir, creating a sea of debris.
"There's just tons and tons of wood, refrigerators, tires, propane tanks - you name it," said Michael Gross, superintendent of Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.
Because of the floating refuse, boating speeds, normally unrestricted, have been limited to 5 mph, Gross said. Some of the driftwood is so heavy it disappears below the surface, creating a hazard for boaters, he said.
In the Granite Bay area, the debris was so thick last week that no boats could launch, Gross said. He managed to have some of the refuse removed and the wind helped push some to shore.
In recent weeks, boaters have begun venturing onto the lake during sunny breaks in the weather, cruising at the typical speed of 35 mph, Gross said. Some have been hauling water-skiers - a pastime that's been put on hold.
"Water-skiing you can't do at 5 miles an hour," he said.
Folsom Lake usually attracts at least one bass-fishing tournament a weekend. Because the object of the tournament is to move quickly from spot to spot in an effort to catch the biggest bass, the lowered speed limit chased off this weekend's tournament, Gross said. A fishing event scheduled for next weekend is not looking good, either.
The lake litter hasn't been this bad since the 1980s, Gross said. It starts with wood and other debris building up along the banks of the American River. Storms dislodge the buildup, flushing it into the lake.
