News Releases for May 2004
May 26, 2004
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State Working To Create Lake Access
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today said the State of North Dakota is working to make as much boat ramp access available to the public as possible by Memorial Day. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department (NDGF), the North Dakota Parks and Recreation (NDPR) Department and local entities have been working together to extend boat ramps. Hoeven said the state has committed between $1.5 million and $1.75 million to securing lake access.
Lake Sakakawea has 36 recreation areas with multiple boat ramps, some of which are used at high water and some at low water. Typically, only 36 are operational, depending on the season.
Last year, the state had 28 ramps available, according to Game and Fish Director Dean Hildebrand. This year, 21 ramps will be available by Memorial Day weekend, and state and local officials are working to have 25 operational in the ensuing weeks. Agency officials say there are an additional 16 usable ramps on the Missouri River between the Garrison Dam and the South Dakota border.
“Our agencies, local officials and civic minded individuals are working hard to provide as much access as possible,” Hoeven said. “We appreciate their efforts and have provided resources and support to help them get the job done.”
Hildebrand added, “Chasing the water on the Missouri River system has been a challenge, but we will do everything possible to maintain access on the system and around the state.”
“Access to the lake has been our number one priority this spring to ensure continued good recreation experiences for fishermen, sailors and pleasure boaters,” said Doug Prchal, director of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department.
The NDGF and NDPR have been working closely with the Army Corps of Engineers, local governments and other groups to make the ramps available. Ramps have been extended to lower elevations with poured concrete, concrete planks or metal extenders.
“I want to thank the many local sporting groups, park boards, county commissions, farmers and municipalities that have contributed time and money to secure lake access this season,” Hoeven said.
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