Big Bear Lake feels impact of California drought

BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (KABC) -- As many California residents begin feeling the effects of the state's ongoing drought, those in Big Bear Lake can begin to see it.

On an average year, the lake is down about 8 feet. This year, the lake is down more than 11 feet. One of the worst years in recent history was 2004, when the lake was down more than 17 feet.

"It's really bad right now, and it was bad in the early 2000's," said Steve Nagel, a resident of Big Bear Lake.

Despite lower water levels, marina owner Loren Hafen says a major dredging project completed in 2005 has allowed part of the lake and a boat ramp to continue operations even in a down year.

"We're in really really good shape because they did that," Hafen said.

Mike Stephenson with Big Bear Municipal Water District says the lake is actually in better shape than most in California, but next summer could get rough. He's hoping for a strong El Nino.

"I'm a cup half full kind of guy, I feel comfortable that the cycle is pretty wicked. We're going to get a wet cycle, just like we did in 2012," Stephenson said.

"That's all you can do (is) pray for rain," Nagel said.

Eyewitness News is committed to helping you Beat the Drought, and we want to hear your ideas too! Join the Circle of Eyewitnesses and tell us what you're doing to save water. Share your pictures or video on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook with #ABC7Drought.