OFFICIALS STILL CAN’T ASSESS DAMAGE AT LAKE SOMERVILLE

  

Officials at Lake Somerville say it could be some time for all the flood waters to recede in order to determine the full extent of the damage.

At this point, there is only limited use of the lake, which should continue through the Fourth of July weekend.

Russell Meier, park ranger for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says conditions could improve somewhat by Labor Day.

This is the second straight summer the lake has been severely affected, which means another significant impact for tourism.

Meier says the water hasn’t receded enough at this point for officials to get in to most of the areas to inspect the damages.

Meier says they expect to find damage to utility infrastructure, campsite pads and campsite amenities.  He also expects damages to sewer lift stations, roadways, boat ramps and fishing docks.

Officials say they expect extremely limited use of the lake for the Fourth of July, including camping and water activities.  They hope that by Labor Day the water will be down further and visitors will have many more options available.