Skip to main content

Boaters beware: Low water levels at Elwood Reservoir

Water levels at Elwood Reservoir in Gosper County are dropping rapidly, affecting boating access to the water body.

Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District is reducing reservoir water levels so repairs can be made along the dam and pump station areas.

As water levels drop, sediment at the bottom of the boat ramp is making it difficult to launch larger boats; the courtesy dock also is nearing the end of its range of operation. As water levels fall below the bottom of the concrete ramp, access may be limited to small craft only.

Elwood is currently 22 feet below full pool and is expected to drop another 4 to 6 feet in the coming weeks. Low reservoir levels should be expected to continue until the construction project is completed in 2024.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will continue to monitor ramp and dock conditions to provide boating access to the reservoir.


About Shawna Richter-Ryerson

Shawna Richter-Ryerson is an assistant division administrator for communications at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. She can be contacted at shawna.richter-ryerson@nebraska.gov or 402-471-5565.

Related Articles

Boat ramp improvements made at Merritt Reservoir

Sep 3, 2025

Boat ramp improvements made at Merritt Reservoir

There will be a closure at Beed’s Landing for concrete work; repairs finished at Powder Horn ramp.

Read More
20th Missouri River Outdoor Expo is Sept. 20-21

Sep 3, 2025

20th Missouri River Outdoor Expo is Sept. 20-21

A weekend of family entertainment awaits at the 20th anniversary of the event at Ponca State Park.

Read More
Nebraska Fish Art Contest open for entries

Aug 25, 2025

Nebraska Fish Art Contest open for entries

The contest is taking entries through Feb. 28, 2026, for students in kindergarten through grade 12.

Read More