One of the snowiest winters on record, has led to the refilling of Flagstaff area lakes after most have been barren for a few years. Recent rains and runoff have quickly refilled Lower Lake Mary to 100-percent capacity for the first time since 2005. The forest’s Watershed Program Manager Kate Day told KAFF News the lower lake picnic area is set to reopen next week and in regards to fishing she says the “Game and Fish Department has been out the last few days and they have stocked 60-thousand rainbow trout into Lower Lake Mary.” She says there has been some fish spill into Lower Lake Mary from Upper Lake Mary so don’t be surprised if you catch a Northern Pike, Walleye or Catfish in the lower lake. Day says because Lower Lake Mary is full, it’s led to more runoff. Water is coming out from the lake through a channel and into Walnut Canyon. Day says if you “go to the Walnut Canyon National Monument, you can actually see and hear the water from the visitor’s center and the island trail.” She says they expect water will remain in Lower Lake Mary for at least the next two years, thanks to this snow season alone.

To hear the complete interview with Kate Day and Dave, click here: