A couple enjoys the view at Lodi Lake. (Jennifer M. Howell/News-Sentinel)

Lodi's crown jewel

Lodi Lake Park was once fields of flax and onions

On the south side of Lodi Lake, below a huge oak and a garland of wisteria, is a simple bronze plaque.

It reads: "No plaque of stone or bronze can adequately honor a gift of nature's loveliness such as this park. To Louis Mason."

It is dated July 4, 1952.

It was Louis Mason who gave the city, through a bargain land deal and outright donations, much of the property for what is now Lodi Lake Park.

Over the years, the land comprising today's park was used for onion and flax cultivation and the growing of grapes. An island was used for horses and livestock.

Steadily, private use and crop cultivation gave way to public access and recreation.

Today, the lake is a watery jewel circled by picnic tables, a playground, a boat launch and a beach.

Along with the Lodi Arch on Pine Street and Hutchins Street Square, Lodi Lake is an iconic symbol of Lodi.

It has been the scene of Fourth of July celebrations, foot races, company picnics, morning strolls, countless children's birthday parties, and boat races.

The lake is changing this year. Formed by Woodbridge Dam, the lake typically is filled in April and used for irrigation throughout the growing season, then drained in autumn.

During the winter, the muddy base of the lake was used for bike races and impromptu football games.

But now the lake will remain full nearly all the time, save for occasional lowering due to maintenace. The change is made possible by the rebuilding of Woodbridge Dam and the adjacent fish ladder.

For visitors to Lodi, Lodi Lake is a must-see.

It is also a must-do.

Here are some of the activities available at the lake: