The drought continues to impact boat ramps at Wilson Lake. Wilson Lake is 3.7 feet low going into Spring. All boat ramps are open, but several are challenging for large heavy draft boats. The Corps is only going to charge a fee at the Spillway Ramp (starting May 1) and will not be charging a fee at the three Minooka ramps until the lake levels rises. The public is requested to test the depth and exercise caution when loading. Our historic low lake level was 7.3 feet low in 2006. In 2006, the Corps attempted to dredge some Minooka ramps with an excavator, but the costs of this practice far exceeded any benefits. If drought conditions persist, we are prepared to close and barricade ramps. Public comment on ramp access will determine closure. Below is a current list of ramp conditions.
Spillway Ramp: 1 lane open and if lake recedes we have a low water ramp that we will open. The low water ramp remained accessible in 2006. Courtesy dock is accessible and we have the ability to adjust it accordingly this summer and therefore a fee will still be charged at this ramp starting May 1.
Lucas Park Ramp: Open lanes and adequate depth through 2006 levels. Courtesy dock is shallow but accessible. Courtesy dock was not accessible at 2006 depth.
Otoe State Park Ramp (KDWPT): Shallow water conditions exist and difficult access will increase as lake recedes. Courtesy dock is inaccessible.
Hell Creek State Park Ramp (KDWPT): Open lanes and adequate depth through 2006 levels. Courtesy dock is shallow but accessible. Courtesy dock was not accessible at 2006 depth.
Minooka Ramps (East /Middle/West): Shallow water conditions exist and difficult access will increase as lake recedes. Courtesy docks are inaccessible. The Corps will not charge a fee at these ramps until lake level rises enough for the public to utilize the courtesy docks.