Closed Ramps Have Been Putting A Strain On Recreationists and Small Businesses In The Area
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) sent a letter urging National Park Service Director Charles Sams to address the five boat launch ramps at Lake Mead that have been closed due to low water levels. This means that only one boat ramp is currently open, which is causing Nevadans to experience multiple-hour wait times to launch boats – putting a strain on local economies dependent on outdoor recreation. The closures have affected recreation access and are harming small businesses that rely on tourism and visitation to the lake.
“The prolonged closure of these boat ramps through prime fishing season leaves many recreationists cut off from access to the lake at the time of highest demand,” Senator Rosen wrote. “My focus is first and foremost on addressing drought conditions in Nevada and mitigating their effects. However, while I greatly appreciate the work that the National Park Service (NPS) is doing to accommodate lowering lake levels and ensure public safety during this period of historically severe drought, I urge NPS to find a speedy resolution to resulting boat launch ramp closures and restore equitable access to outdoor recreation opportunities at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.”
“I request that you provide me with information about the actions you are taking to re-open launch ramps; and if there are no plans to re-open the launch ramps, please share NPS’ reasoning and justification for the continued closures,” Senator Rosen continued.
The full letter can be found here.
###
