MONROE COUNTY, Pa. — Tobyhanna State Park is known for getting people outdoors and on the lake. This upcoming summer will be the last on the water for a while.
The state recently announced plans for a full dam replacement project.
"The dam was built in the 1950 as you can see from the condition, it's starting to deteriorate. It also does not meet the probable maximum flood requirements that are set forth," said Park Manager Lee Dillon.
Dillon says in order to do the project, the state has to drain the lake before the dam can be rebuilt to modern standards.
"Obviously, we want to make sure communities surrounded by and downstream are safe. The last thing we want to see is a dam failure. Anywhere, so we are far better dealing with it in a structured manner than trying to deal with an emergency," said Dillon.
"I've seen this done in other areas in years past, so it's something they have to do," said Larry Toth of Lake Ariel.
Before state officials can begin the drawdown, they have to think about the wildlife that lives in this lake, including thousands of fish.
"They are set to suspend all regulations except for trout. That's very important trout regulations will stay intact effective this Saturday that will help to salvage as many fish as we possibly can," explained Dillon.
Larry Toth of Lake Ariel came by the dam to scope out a spot ahead of opening day of trout season.
"It's good that they are going to change it to allow the anglers to take as many fish out of here other than trout as they'll allow because they're just going to drain it anyway," said Toth.
State officials plan to drain the lake in mid-September. Construction on the dam at Tobyhanna State Park is expected to begin next year.