Historic Shaver Lake Dam Project

Please use this site as “Information Central” for the Historic Shaver Lake Dam Project. The Chamber will be updating it with informational links provided by Southern California Edison. 

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In September 2010, Southern California Edison (SCE) began lowering Shaver Lake to start its historic Shaver Lake Dam Maintenance Project. The project involves applying a special geomembrane liner to preserve and extend the dam’s life. 

As of November 10, 2010, the project contractors were one month ahead of schedule. A change in the use of one of SCE’s pumps has allowed them to lower the lake to 75 feet below the spillway level this winter. This change will allow them to complete 52% of the project this winter. They originally thought that only 25% of the project would be completed this winter.

This spring, SCE will begin refilling Shaver Lake so that it will be at normal levels for the 2011 summer recreational season. In late September 2011, SCE will begin lowering the lake down to the streambed level. Parts of the lakebed that have not been seen in over 80 years will be exposed. It will provide the public with the rare chance to see the historic millpond site and the rest of the lake bottom from a distance.

The public will not have physical access to the lake bottom or the old millpond site because SCE is required to keep the public safe from extreme muddy conditions and protect historic artifacts in place. The public will not have access to the lakebed during the project. Security will be in place for public safety and to ensure compliance. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to view the lake bottom and take photos.

In the spring 2012, SCE will begin raising the lake so that it will be at normal levels for the 2012 summer season. SCE and the Department of Fish and Game will restock the lake with a variety of fish, including trophy size fish.

Don’t miss this rare occasion to see Shaver Lake like you’ve never seen it before. 

Download  The Shaver Lake  Report  August 2011