PERRY, Kan. — Recent rains have increased Perry Lake’s water elevation causing closure of Corps of Engineers facilities due to flooding throughout the Memorial Day weekend.
Closures include all Corps boat ramps, Slough Creek, Rock Creek and Old Town campgrounds and Perry Park Beach. The designated ATV area is open with limited access; visitors should call Perry Lake for access information.
“Many roads have been closed,” informed Jason Hurley, Perry Lake park manager. “Closed locations are marked with gates or barricades. Please do not drive around any of these barriers as they are in place for everyone’s safety and to reduce further damages to the area. The marinas and Perry State Park are currently open and we encourage visitors to contact those facilities for any changes.”
As conditions change, the Corps of Engineers will continue to monitor and assess the need for releases from Perry Lake Dam and plan to host a public meeting in the coming weeks regarding those operations.
“Protecting lives is our number one priority,” said Col. Doug Guttormsen, Kansas City District Commander. “We’ve been holding a lot of water behind our reservoirs and have no immediate plans to increase reservoir releases. However, as localized rainfall continues and the flood storage capacity fills up, our team will individually assess each reservoir in our region, along with the projected weather forecast, to determine if and when water releases will be made.”
The Kansas City District would like to remind the public to wear a lifejacket while on or near the water. Be vigilant of the safety risks associated with high water such as floating debris or obstructions covered by high water which can create dangerous boating conditions. Expect the unexpected and be prepared. Do not drive or walk into flood waters on the road. Any time you come to a flooded road please turn around, don't drown! Never enter standing or moving water to cross a road.
For information regarding Perry State Park, contact Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism at (785) 246-3449.
For information regarding camping reservations, contact Recreation.gov at (877) 444-6777.
For more information regarding the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Perry Lake contact us at (785) 597-5144.