Daryl Bauer, Fisheries Outreach Program Manager
It may not be a lot, but some of you are still fishing this fall. If you are, these news items may pertain to waters you fish:
Water at Calamus SRA will stay low for weeks
Water levels at Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area will remain low for the next few weeks so the Twin Loups Irrigation District can conduct crucial repair work to the soil cement on Virginia Smith Dam.
Access to some boat ramps is affected. The ramps at Homestead Knolls and Nunda Shoals are open. However, large boats will have difficulty launching at Nunda Shoals because of shallow water. Ramps at Buckshot Bay and Valley View Flat are closed.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission appreciates the patience of its park guests and is committed to providing access to the reservoir. However, the movement of sand in the reservoir has posed challenges, particularly at the Homestead Knolls boat ramp. Staff are working to secure a contractor who will remove the sand built up at Homestead Knolls.
The dam repair is part of the district’s ongoing efforts to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam. The Twin Loups Irrigation District provides irrigation water for approximately 52,000 acres from water stored in Calamus and Davis Creek reservoirs.
For updates on reservoir access, call the park office at 308-346-5666.
Water levels are low at many reservoirs around the state. Game and Parks advises boaters to be patient and cautious when launching and loading a boat.
Game and Parks recommends boat operators have a spotter with them or check to see if the end of the ramp is visible from the shoreline or dock before launching if water clarity allows.
Local staff are a great resource to get the most current ramp conditions as water levels and ramp conditions vary from one water body to the next.
When a water body’s level drops, less of the boat ramp is underwater, reducing the length of the ramp for a successful launch, which can cause problems launching and loading a boat.
Once on the water, boat operators should also be mindful of the increased possibility of underwater hazards during low-water conditions.
To view a map of other boat ramps in the state, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides-maps/maps/ and scroll to Public Boating Areas.
Construction to temporarily close parts of Cheyenne SRA
Portions of Cheyenne State Recreation Area, including the boat ramp, will be closed temporarily starting Oct. 9 because of the construction of 21 electrical campsites and other improvements. Work will begin on the east end of the park.
These improvements, which include the construction of camping pads, widening of the roadway and installation of underground utilities, are essential for enhancing visitor experience and safety.
The boat ramp and vehicle access west of the first turnaround will be closed to all traffic at the SRA south of Wood River. During this phase of construction, visitors can fish from the shore by parking in the east loop along the road. There also will be no access to shelters to ensure the safe operation of construction equipment.
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this important phase of development,” said Laura Rose, south-central regional park superintendent for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. “The improvements are expected to significantly enhance the facilities available for visitors, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience at Cheyenne SRA.”
For updates on construction and more information, call 308-385-6211.
Davis Creek Reservoir
Lastly, got a note from the Lower Loup Natural Resource District. Remember there is road work being done at Davis Creek Reservoir this fall and access to the recreation area is now closed. Foot traffic on the wildlife area is allowed.