Rising lake lifts local economy

Columbia County has the region's lowest unemployment rate. County commissioners recently began work on $38 million in voter-approved spending on public works and infrastructure projects that rightly are seen as our own local "stimulus" package. And this week, of course, thousands of visitors in town will boost the local hospitality economy.

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But some of the best news lately just fell from the sky - literally.

While the recent torrential rains might have been misery-inducing for those driving through wet streets or slogging through the puddles, it has been like manna from heaven for our area's greatest man-made resource: Clarks Hill Lake.

The lake's levels have taken a severe dip in the past couple of mega-drought years, and some local business have taken a beating as a result. It's been bad enough that the national economy has tanked and the housing "bubble" burst, especially in resort properties. But lake levels fell so low that most boat ramps were useless and swimming areas were on dry land. That makes recovery even tougher.

With recent rains, though, Clarks Hill Lake is within striking distance of full pool. Boat ramps are again reaching water, including the all-important tournament ramps at Wildwood Park, and boating doesn't mean navigating mazes of mud.

The rising lake level should raise the lake-based economy along with it, because at Clarks Hill a rising tide really does lift all boats. If you're staying in town for spring break and not visiting the Masters, this would be a great time to visit the lake and see for yourself.