LINCOLN, Neb. – The construction of a new boat-launch facility at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area’s Main Landing has begun. The Main Landing area will be closed temporarily.
Reservoir water levels are typically at their lowest now, following irrigation season. This will facilitate the construction of the new ramp, as well as a protective rock breakwater adjacent to the parking area for the old high-water ramp.
Construction will continue into mid-October as the reservoir refills. An alternate fish-cleaning station is available at Beed’s Landing. The public should stay clear of the work area and construction equipment entering the Main Landing and Willow Cove Campground areas.
The new concrete ramp will provide improved boat launching and angler access for a longer duration during annual reservoir drawdowns. The current ramp, built in the 1960s, often has been out of service by early July each year.
This project, which has been postponed twice because of higher-than-expected water levels, is a cooperative effort of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Ainsworth Irrigation District and the Bureau of Reclamation. It will be paid for by Game and Parks’ Aquatic Habitat-Angler Access Program, Capital Development Maintenance Funds and matching U.S. Coast Guard boating safety funds.
Contact Game and Parks’ Loren Murray at 402-376-3320 for more information.
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