The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said Thursday 6.6 million people visited the lake in 2008, 1 million fewer visitors than in 2005 the last time Lanier was at full pool. It was a 13 percent decline.
The lake dropped to 18 feet below full last summer as the drought heated up. Swimming areas, boat ramps and docks were left high and dry.
Lanier currently is about 12 feet below full as the drought heads into its fourth year.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/3/218605