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Contact: Sandra Snell-Dobert, 970-641-2337
Rapidly decreasing water levels are necessitating early closures of some of the facilities and services at Curecanti National Recreation Area.
Blue Mesa Reservoir may be depleted to a historical low level this fall. This low level is creating boating access issues at ramps. Iola boat ramp will be closed at the end of the day on September 6, as it is no longer safe or feasible to launch there. Lake Fork marina and boat ramp will close at the end of the day on Monday, September 10. Slip holders are advised to remove boats by September 7. Water levels are expected to drop to the point where launching and operation of boats will not be possible.
Beginning September 6, Elk Creek Marina will have limited services (no fuel, restrooms, or sewer pump out available) due to rapidly decreasing water levels. The store will be disconnected and moved to deeper water for the winter. Elk Creek Marina Store is expected to close September 10. Slip holders are advised to remove boats due to uncertainty of ramp conditions including exposed cables and debris. For more information about marina services at Elk Creek, call 970-641-0707. Pappy’s restaurant also closes September 10.
Elk Creek ramp will remain open as long as conditions allow.
NPS staff are monitoring conditions daily. Please be alert to changes. The NPS posts alerts at https://www.nps.gov/cure and on Facebook. Low water levels are also revealing navigation hazards daily – stay alert and boat with extreme caution.
Low water levels and rising temperatures have also created an increase in blue-green algae. Some species of this algae produce toxins that are harmful to dogs. Dog owners are advised to exercise caution when allowing dogs to swim or drink reservoir water.
Other seasonal closures to note: September 9 is the last day of Morrow Point Boat Tours and September 10 the Elk Creek and Lake Fork showers close.
Elk Creek Visitor Center’s fall hours through September 23 are 8 am to 6 pm, daily; after the 23rd, hours change to 8 am to 4 pm daily into October.
South Rim Visitor Center, Black Canyon, fall hours began September 4. Hours will be 8 am to 5 pm.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Ranger Conducted Activities, including both daytime and evening programs, will continue through September. The full schedule can be consulted at: https://www.nps.gov/blca/planyourvisit/calendar.htm
Last updated: September 5, 2018