Drawdown at Lacamas, Round lakes begins

City of Camas cancels annual lake clean-up due to COVID-19 pandemic

Contributed photo by Greg Wahl-Stephens for the Columbian Volunteers, including members of scout troop 424 check out the skeletons of wooden boats as they clean up the shoreline and surrounds of Lacamas Lake, with the water level lowered, in Camus, Sept 30, 2017. (Post-Record file photo)

The city of Camas began its annual process of lowering water levels in Round and Lacamas lakes this week, on Monday, Sept. 14.

This process makes it possible for city staff to inspect the upper and lower dams and conduct any necessary maintenance. During the drawdown, water levels will be reduced by approximately six feet. The lakes will reach their lowest levels around Sept. 28 and refilling will tentatively begin Oct. 26. During this period of low water, boat launches may not be accessible.

The city also has canceled its annual Lacamas Lake clean-up event, which coincides each year with the drawdown, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Clark County is currently in Phase 2 of the state’s reopening plan. The Phase 2 requirements prohibit gatherings of large groups for this type of special event.

The city is working with county officials and other regional partners to improve water quality in both Lacamas and Round lakes. The city expects to hold the annual lake clean-up in 2021.

For more information, call Camas’ public works department at 360-817-1563.

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