Lower water levels in Blue Mesa Reservoir to impact trailered watercraft

GUNNISON, Colo. - The National Park Service is asking boaters at Blue Mesa Reservoir to prepare for changes to marina operations and boat ramp access at Elk Creek and Lake Fork as reservoir levels continue to decrease. To maintain safe and operational marina facilities, the NPS has moved the Elk Creek marina infrastructure to deeper water. Approximately half of the Lake Fork Marina has also been moved to deep water. Trailered watercraft can no longer use the Lake Fork boat ramp and will not be able to use the Elk Creek boat ramp when reservoir elevations reach 7435'. Hand-launching of non-trailered watercraft will remain available at both ramps.

Boaters should plan for the following projected operational changes. Dates and reservoir elevations are based on current projections and are subject to change.

• Sunday, July 26: Remaining Lake Fork marina operations will no longer be operational at 4:00 pm. Consult with https://www.thebluemesa.com/boating-fishing for details.
• Monday, July 27: All boats must be out of Lake Fork Marina slips by noon.
• Friday, July 31 (approx. 7,435 feet): The Elk Creek boat ramp is projected to no longer be safe for launching or retrieving trailered watercraft. All trailered watercraft on Blue Mesa reservoir should be retrieved before this elevation is reached. The ramp will remain open for hand-launching.

Shoreline Launching, Inspections and Boater Safety
Boaters may launch hand-powered watercraft from the shoreline where conditions allow, but caution is advised because low water levels can expose unknown hazards. Shoreline launching of trailered watercraft is permitted at one's own risk only with boat inspection and except in locations specified in the superintendent's compendium Superintendent's Compendium - Curecanti National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service). Hand-launched and hand-powered vessels that meet Clean, Drain, Dry requirements do not require inspection. All other watercraft, including motorized vessels and any watercraft that requires a trailer to enter the water, must be inspected for aquatic invasive species before launching. Inspections will continue to be available seven days a week at Elk Creek, Lake Fork and Iola.

Curecanti National Recreation Area advises visitors to use caution on the reservoirs this season because low water levels can create rapidly changing conditions. Boaters are encouraged to plan ahead-and stay informed-before and during their visit. Current boating and safety information is available at www.nps.gov/cure/planyourvisit/boating.htm.

Low Water Conditions and Reservoir Management
The Bureau of Reclamation manages dams and water distribution, while the National Park Service manages recreation at Curecanti National Recreation Area. Record-low snowpack runoff, lack of spring and early summer rains, and record warm temperatures have resulted in historically low reservoir elevations this season.

For information on watercraft regulations, visit www.nps.gov/cure/learn/management/superintendents-compendium.htm.

Curecanti National Recreation Area continues to offer a wide range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience by remaining aware of changing conditions and boating responsibly.For more information, visit www.nps.gov/cure.

-NPS-

About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov .