The impact of California’s historic 3 year drought is clearly visible in these before and after photos of Lake Oroville. The earlier photos were taken in 2011 by the California Department of Water Resources, while the mid-drought photos were taken in August of 2014 by Justin Sullivan.
The contrast is startling, to say the least. As of Sept 15th, 2014, the Lake Oroville was only at 31% of its capacity.
Bidwell Marina, seen below is only a fraction of its original size.
Photo by Paul Hames/California Department of Water Resources via Getty Images.
Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Here, the reservoir is nearly full (2011). By 2014, it’s nothing more than a stream.
Photo by Paul Hames/California Department of Water Resources via Getty Images
Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Bidwell Marina, before and after the drought.
Photo by Paul Hames/California Department of Water Resources via Getty Images
Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
House boats can only safely float in the deepest water – right in the centre. The view? Nothing more than the lake’s steep banks.
Photo: Justin Sullivan, Getty Images
The old shoreline clearly visible while the drought brings lakes across the state to historic lows.
Photo: Justin Sullivan, Getty Images
Anyone up for a swim? A marina in Bass Lake is rendered nearly useless during the drought.
Michael Macor, The Chronicle