Drought 2007 Effects on Lake Johnson

The drought of 2007 has placed central North Carolina between storms off the coast and floods in the interior cities. It is not unusual to have a spell of clear dry hot weather. That said, this has proven to be a tough year for the triangle (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill).

Consistent with my love of the greenways, I wondered how the drought was affecting the trails. Lake Johnson is a popular park with trails for a wide variety of Raleigh residents in the southwest part of the city.

Except for an occasional tree missing its leaves, I would not know that there was a drought. Lake Johnson looks like it is full to the brim with water.

The large community facility is busy renting sail boats and paddle boats to excited children and courageous parents.

The small beach at the side of the facility was packed with children playing in the water.

Out on the bridge that crosses parallel to the causeway across the center of the lake, fishermen lined the wooden walkway. They did mention that the fish were not biting. I don't think we can blame that on the drought. Though the temperature of the water might have been a factor, it is probably due to the fishes' reluctance.

The trails, of which there are literally miles and miles, appeared not to be impacted by the effects of the drought.

The nice thing about the trails here is there are several to choose from depending on what you want the trail to do for you. Part of the trail is smooth and flat. Another part of the trail has what seems like endless hills that either go up or down depending on where you are on the trail.

There is a trail that is unpaved and limited to hikers only. There is part of another trail that is like walking along a dirt road inside a movie. The trail and its view of the water are that perfect.

At least as of the 9th of September 2007, Lake Johnson is in probably the best condition of all the parks and trails I have visited. With a little rain it will stay that way.

The parking lots were filled beyond capacity as people tried to get into the Lake Johnson park system. This is has always been a problem because this park offers so much to such a wide range of different tastes.