Boat Launches: State-Run Closures And Their Impact

Boat launches are sites that provide access to bodies of water for boats. They are typically operated by state or local governments and are open to the public. Some boat launches are closed due to construction, weather conditions, or needed repairs. For example, the KE Streeter (Thames River) Boat Launch in Groton, Connecticut, is closed due to construction on the Gold Star Bridge. In Utah, some state parks have closed their boat launch ramps due to low water levels. Before using a boat launch, it is essential to check its status with local authorities or relevant websites.

Boat launches closed for construction

Boat launches are sometimes closed due to construction or maintenance work. For example, the KE Streeter (Thames River) Boat Launch in Groton, Connecticut, was closed due to construction on the Gold Star Bridge. The Long Lake Public Access parking lot and boat launch in Cascade, Wisconsin, were also temporarily closed for construction improvements to the parking lot and a full replacement of the boat launch and its amenities.

Boat launches may also be closed due to low water levels. For instance, Beltzville State Park in Pennsylvania was forced to close its two boat launch ramps due to low water levels caused by a release of water by the Army Corps of Engineers.

In some cases, boat launches may be closed due to public health concerns, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. During the early stages of the pandemic in 2020, there was confusion over whether boat launches were considered essential activities and should remain open or closed. This led to a mixed response, with some launches closing while others remained open.

It is important to check with local authorities or relevant departments for the latest information on boat launch closures, as schedules and reasons for closures may vary.

Boat launches closed due to water levels

Boat launches are often closed due to abnormal water level conditions, such as during floods when water levels are too high, or during droughts when water levels are too low. For example, in 2024, high water levels led to the closure of all boat launches at the north end of Kalamalka Lake in the District of Coldstream. The same issue caused the closure of boat launches in Enderby, Eagle Bay, and Sorrento.

In 2022, all public boat launches at Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, were closed until further notice due to rising water levels. The lake's elevation was expected to crest around 791.5 on Monday evening, according to the Raystown Lake U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

On the other hand, low water levels can also cause closures, such as at the Wahweap boat launch at Lake Powell, which was closed to houseboats in 2021 due to insufficient water depth.

Water levels can fluctuate, causing boat launches to close or reopen accordingly. For instance, in 2019, the LaSalle boat launch at Gil Maure Park in LaSalle partially reopened after closing due to high water levels.

These closures are implemented to ensure the safety of boaters and to prevent damage to property and infrastructure, such as docks and shorelines.

Boat launch parking lot full

If the boat launch parking lot is full, you must find an alternative launch site. This is a common issue, especially during peak hours, and it is important to follow the guidelines and regulations in place.

In some cases, boat launches may be closed due to low water levels or construction. For example, Beltzville State Park was forced to close its two boat launch ramps due to low water levels, and the Long Lake Public Access boat launch in Wisconsin was temporarily closed for construction, with improvements being made to the parking lot and boat launch amenities.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was also confusion regarding boat launch closures as part of social distancing orders. While some boat launches were closed, others remained open, causing uncertainty among local officials.

To avoid disappointment, it is advisable to check the status of boat launches in your area before planning your trip. This can be done by contacting the relevant authorities, such as the state Department of Environmental Conservation or the local parks and recreation department. It is also worth considering alternative launch sites in advance, in case the parking lot at your preferred site is full.

Boat launches closed for repairs

Boat launches may be closed for repairs, maintenance, or construction. For example, the Lexington Boat Launch in Michigan will be closed for repaving, design work, skid pier work, and the construction of new vault toilets. The construction is expected to begin before the boating season and end in June or July. During this time, boaters are advised to use public launches in nearby Port Huron and Port Sanilac.

In Connecticut, the KE Streeter (Thames River) Boat Launch in Groton was closed due to construction on the Gold Star Bridge. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) owns and operates 117 boat launches statewide, and they generally remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, unless noted otherwise.

In Utah, boat launch ramps at state parks may be closed due to low water levels to help protect visitors and their property. Low water levels can also expose navigation hazards and reduce the amount of boatable water, necessitating vigilance and adherence to safety practices.

It is important for boaters to stay informed about the status of boat launches and ramps in their area, especially before embarking on a trip. Information on boat launch closures and construction projects can often be found on official websites or social media pages of the relevant departments or municipalities.

Boat launches closed for special events

Boat launches may be closed due to a variety of reasons, including special events, weather conditions, water levels, or repairs. For example, the Beltzville State Park in Pennsylvania was forced to close its two boat launch ramps due to low water levels caused by a release of water by the Army Corps of Engineers. Similarly, the boat launch at Lake Flower in Saranac Lake, New York, was restricted to trailered boats due to an adjacent construction project.

In some cases, boat launches may be closed to comply with social distancing orders or other public health and safety guidelines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was confusion among local officials in New York State about whether boat launches should be open or closed. While some launches were closed to all recreational boating, others remained open to give people the opportunity to get out and enjoy the water while maintaining social distancing.

It is important for boaters to stay informed about the status of boat launches, especially when travelling to unfamiliar locations. Local authorities or relevant websites can provide up-to-date information on closures. For instance, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends checking with local authorities before heading to an unknown boat ramp, as it may be closed due to special events, weather, or repairs. Additionally, boaters should be aware of any restrictions or requirements specific to each launch site, such as parking fees or trailer-only access.

To ensure a smooth boating experience, it is advisable to plan ahead and be prepared for any closures or restrictions that may be in place. Checking the status of the boat launch and any relevant guidelines beforehand can help avoid inconveniences and ensure a safe and enjoyable outing on the water.

Frequently asked questions