The new facility at Lake Somerset. © Somerset Daily American, staff photos by Eric Kieta.
An exciting addition has been opened in anticipation of refilling Lake Somerset.
In December, a new path, pad, and pavilion were completed for mobility-challenged users.
The gates at the repaired dam have been closed, and the lake is expected to be full this summer. Then, the edge of the lake will be at the new pavilion.
Over the past year, projects have been carried out to enhance the lake bottom for fish, wildlife, and visitors.
Last fall, Somerset County commissioners accepted a bid from Maust Excavating, of Somerset, for the next phase of the Somerset Lake trail. The plan is to have the trail circle the lake and provide opportunities for walking, bird watching, and enjoyment of the lake/woodland environment.
According to the PA Audubon Society and their Important Bird Area program, “the lake supports thousands of migrating waterfowl each year.”