PHOTOS: New views at Alcova as water lowered for spillway work

ALCOVA, Wyo. – Maintenance work at the Alcova Dam spillway has given a unique view of the lake as water was allowed to drain to unusually low levels.

Over the weekend, Natrona County Parks asked residents to show up and help clear the now-exposed lakebed of years of debris and litter.

On Saturday, people wandered the area on foot and machine, some taking in the views and others armed with metal detectors and on treasure hunts.

Cans of beer enjoyed decades ago were exposed and startlingly well preserved. Drill bits, tires, concrete pillars and fishing gear were also among the debris at the dried are of the lake.

Areas of the lakebed near the docks were dry and solid. However, as the unlucky owners of a pickup truck trapped to its axles discovered, some areas were still very soft and unforgiving.

Work on the spillway is expected to last through this month, according to Natrona County Parks, which means the water will rise once again.