Boaters Asked to Prepare for Upcoming Low-Water Levels at Blue Mesa Reservoir

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GUNNISON, Colo. - The National Park Service is asking boaters at Blue Mesa Reservoir to prepare for upcoming changes to marina operations and boat ramp access at Elk Creek and Lake Fork as reservoir levels continue to decline. To maintain safe and operational marina facilities, the NPS will move marina infrastructure to deeper water. As reservoir elevations decrease, trailered watercraft will no longer be able to use existing boat ramps. Hand-launching of non-trailered watercraft will remain available.

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

• Friday, June 26 (approx. 7,448 feet): The Lake Fork boat ramp is projected to no longer be safe for launching or retrieving trailered watercraft. Launching and retrieving trailered watercraft will shift to the Elk Creek boat ramp. Hand-launching will remain possible at the Lake Fork ramp, and Lake Fork Marina will remain open and accessible.
• At approximately 7,443 feet: The Lake Fork Marina walkway must be pulled and placed in safe storage. Lake Fork Marina will continue to operate in a modified location.
• By approximately 7,440 feet: Large boats with deep drafts should be retrieved at the Elk Creek boat ramp.
• Sunday, July 5: All boats must be removed from Elk Creek Marina slips by 8:00 p.m. On July 6, operations will begin to move the marina to a deep-water location to protect infrastructure.
• Saturday, Aug. 1: All boats must be removed from Lake Fork Marina slips by 8:00 p.m. The marina will be moved to a deep-water location to protect the infrastructure beginning August 2.
• Saturday, Aug. 8 (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 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. 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, weak runoff and unusually warm temperatures have resulted in historically low reservoir levels 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 .