Boat Ramps: Are State-Run Ones Open For Use?

Boat ramps provide access to the water for boaters and are often located in popular boating spots. However, these ramps are not always open to the public and may be closed due to low water levels, flooding, or other factors. Before visiting a boat ramp, it is advisable to check its status with local authorities or relevant state departments. This paragraph introduces the topic of 'are state boat ramps open' and highlights some key factors that can determine their accessibility.

Boat ramps closed due to low water levels

Boat ramps provide access to lakes, rivers, and streams for boaters. However, these ramps are sometimes closed due to low water levels, which can make it unsafe for boats to enter and exit the water. In such cases, local authorities make the decision to close boat ramps, as seen in Travis County, Texas, where boat ramps at Lake Travis were closed due to low water levels. This decision was made by county officials, who determined that the water depth was insufficient for safe boating.

Similarly, in Austin, Texas, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department closed the boat ramps at Walter E. Long Lake until further notice. The decision was made due to low water levels, which made it unsafe for boaters to enter and exit the lake. It's important to note that while boat access may be restricted during such closures, shore-launched watercraft such as canoes and kayaks can usually still be used.

Boat ramp closures due to low water levels can also occur in preparation for equipment upgrades or repairs. For example, at Walter E. Long Lake, the Austin Energy department worked with the Austin Parks and Recreation Department to manage water levels. The lake level was gradually lowered through natural evaporation to facilitate upcoming equipment upgrades at the Decker Power Plant. During this time, boat ramps remained closed to ensure the safety of boaters.

It is recommended to check with local authorities or relevant organizations before heading to a boat ramp, especially when water levels are known to be low. This proactive approach ensures that boaters are aware of any closures or potential safety hazards. For instance, in New York, boaters are advised to contact the Department of Environmental Conservation's Regional Operations Offices to obtain the most current schedule for dock installations and removals, which are influenced by water levels, weather, and ice conditions. By staying informed, boaters can make alternative plans or choose different boat launch sites if necessary.

Boat ramps closed due to severe flooding

In North Carolina, heavy rains caused significant flooding at Jordan Lake, leading to the closure of multiple boat ramps and campsites. The flood levels reached 14.15 feet above the full pool, and officials anticipated "significant" maintenance challenges in affected areas. The flooding was described as "some of the worst we've seen in a few years," and it was deemed too dangerous to allow people into certain areas.

Similarly, in Iowa, high water levels and debris from storms caused the closure of multiple parts of Saylorville Lake for safety reasons. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers stated that the closures would remain in place until water levels were back under control and crews could clean up the area. While not all sections of the lake were closed, boaters who ventured out were advised to take extreme caution, wear life jackets, and be aware of submerged structures and floating debris.

In North Texas, heavy rains caused flooding in lakes across the region, leading to the closure of boat ramps and recreation areas. The Army Corps of Engineers anticipated that it could take weeks for lake levels to return to normal and advised people to check the status of recreation areas before visiting.

It is important to note that closures may not be reported in real time, and boaters should contact local authorities or refer to official sources for the most up-to-date information on boat ramp closures and reopenings.

Boat ramp status in Central Texas

Boat ramp access in Central Texas is subject to change due to various factors, including weather conditions, water levels, and repairs. It's important to check the status before planning a trip.

The Highland Lakes are popular boating spots in Central Texas, but they can be affected by drought and periodic floods. During droughts, low water levels may render boat ramps inaccessible, while lakes may be closed to recreational boaters during severe floods.

As of September 3, 2024, Mansfield Dam, Sandy Creek, and Tournament Point at Pace Bend Park were reported to be open. However, all other public boat ramps in the area were closed due to low water levels, including the Cedar Point Recreation Area boat ramp.

Boat ramp closures can also occur due to special events, needed repairs, or invasive species infestations. It is recommended to check with local authorities or relevant websites for the most up-to-date information on boat ramp status in Central Texas.

Additionally, Texas offers a diverse range of aquatic ecosystems for boaters to explore, including over 150 lakes, 15 rivers, and 3,700 streams. It is important to prioritize safety and be mindful of regulations, such as life jacket requirements for children, when enjoying these waterways.

Boating access sites by county in New York

New York has a lot to offer when it comes to boating and exploring the outdoors. The state boasts over 5 million acres, 7,000 lakes and streams, and 52,000 miles of rivers and streams. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) provides a comprehensive list of publicly available boat launches and ramps by county. Here is a breakdown of boating access sites in a few counties in New York:

Nassau County

Nassau County offers various boating access sites, each with its own unique features and regulations. Here are some of the sites:

• Bar Beach Park: Accommodates 40 cars and trailers.
• Hempstead Lake State Park: Annual $50 launch fee for car-top boats only. No trailers or gas motors allowed. Inflatables require NMMA certification. A state parks permit is required.
• Jones Beach State Park: This site allows only kayaks and canoes.
• Hempstead Town Marina West: Features a boat pumpout with a 21-foot limit.
• Manorhaven Beach Park: Accommodates 50 cars and trailers. A fee or permit is required, and launch and recovery are possible during high tides only.
• Oyster Bay Western Waterfront Waterway Access Site: Parking available for 20 cars with trailers.
• Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park: Accommodates 90 cars and trailers. This launch has a boat pumpout, and a fee or permit is required.

Suffolk County

The DEC operates five Marine Waterway Access Sites in Suffolk County that are open to the public 24/7:

• Hashamomuck Waterway Access Site
• Mattituck Creek Waterway Access Site
• Oyster Bay Western Waterfront Waterway Access Site
• Oyster Ponds Waterway Access Site
• Moriches Waterway Access Site

Other Counties

New York offers boating access sites in many other counties as well, including Albany, Allegany, Broome, Cattaraugus, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chemung, Chenango, Clinton, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Dutchess, Erie, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Niagara, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orange, Orleans, Oswego, Otsego, Putnam, Rensselaer, Richmond, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Tioga, Tompkins, Ulster, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Westchester, Wyoming, and Yates counties. Each county provides a range of boating access sites with varying features and amenities.

Florida's Boat Ramp Finder

Florida has a lot to offer when it comes to boating. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Boating and Waterways Section works to improve boating access by identifying potential sites for new boating access facilities, renovating and expanding existing facilities, and constructing and renovating boating access facilities on state-owned lands. Since the mid-1950s, the Commission has built boat ramps across the state that are available to the public free of charge. Most sites are open 24 hours a day.

The Commission currently maintains over 200 access sites, with new sites being added each year. The Boat Ramp Finder provides descriptive information, maps, and photographs for hundreds of public boat ramps throughout Florida. You can use the Boat Ramp Finder to locate ramps and view lanes, hours, fees, and contact information. It's a good idea to check the status of a boat ramp before venturing out as they may be temporarily closed due to special events, weather conditions, or repairs.

The Sport Fish Restoration - Boat Access Program is a "user pays, user benefits" program that seeks to improve boating opportunities. Federal funds are collected from taxes on fishing tackle, motor fuels, and import duties on tackle and yachts. These funds are then used for research, management, and development activities related to sport fish and boating access, with 15% of the funds allocated specifically for building and repairing boat ramps.

The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute has also been producing a statewide series of educational boating and angling guide maps that provide information about Florida's ecosystems since 1992. So whether you're a seasoned boater or just starting out, Florida's Boat Ramp Finder and other resources have you covered to enjoy all that the state has to offer for boating enthusiasts.

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