Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this spring

People planning to launch boats in Nebraska this spring should be aware of low-water conditions across the state.

These conditions exist at the following locations:

• Southeast: Wagon Train, Bluestem, Olive Creek, East Twin, Portal, Burchard, Cottontail, Killdeer, Merganser, Wild Plum, Hedgefield, Yankee Hill, Lone Star, Clatonia, Willard Meyer and Walnut Creek 2A
• Northwest: Big Alkali, Rat and Beaver, Valentine Refuge Lakes, Defair WMA and Walgren.

Conditions can change rapidly and will change as summer progresses. People are encouraged to call ahead to state park locations or to area managers for the most current ramp conditions as water levels and ramp conditions can vary from one lake to the next week to week.

“While many of our ramps have been designed or extended to counter these low-water conditions, the recent drought conditions still warrant users to be cautious while launching and loading,” said Zach Horstman, Nebraska Game and Parks’ boating access coordinator. “In some locations, boat ramps have had to close.”

These closures are shown on the Public Access Boating map at OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides-maps/maps, which is regularly updated. 

In places where ramp access is still available, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission advises boaters to be patient and cautious when launching and loading a boat.

Boat operators should 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. When a lake’s water level falls, 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 be mindful of the increased possibility of underwater hazards during low-water conditions.