Game and Parks adapting Lake Mac access for lower water

Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area in Keith County continues to offer abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, paddling, swimming and shoreline recreation this summer.

As water levels gradually decline, Nebraska Game and Parks staff have been preparing to provide low-water access to the reservoir. They:

• have prepared the sand roadway to Spillway Bay, where an emergency boat ramp was constructed of concrete railroad crossing plates in 2006, the last time water levels were this low. Pending federal approval and as water recedes, park workers will remove sand from the single-lane ramp so it is available for boat launchers. Four-wheel drive is recommended.
• are prepared to add rock to the bottom of the Diver’s Bay and Martin Bay boat ramps, pending federal approval, as water levels reach the end of the concrete ramps.
• have tested water levels at Diver’s Bay, with the intention of converting it to a shallow-water launch for personal watercraft or smaller fishing boats to reduce congestion at available boat ramps.

“Though water levels are lower than in recent years, Lake Mac remains the state’s largest reservoir with plenty of room for boating, fishing, paddling and swimming,” said Patrick Schnell, park superintendent. “Visitors also will find expanded beaches to enjoy along the shoreline.”

All major recreation services around the lake remain open, including beaches, campgrounds, lodging facilities, restaurants, convenience stores and other visitor services.

Nebraska Game and Parks staff monitor lake conditions daily and will continue to adjust facilities as needed, including relocating docks and removing sand from boat ramps to maintain access.

Visitors who prefer alternative launching options may use one of the local boat-launching services available in the area. Find vendors at VisitKeithCounty.com by searching for “towing.”

Boaters should take note that water levels west of Sand Point are extremely shallow; they are encouraged to avoid the area. They also should exercise caution, remain alert to changing water depths and operate at safe speeds when enjoying the state’s largest reservoir.

Visitors planning a boating trip to the reservoir should call the park at 308-284-8800 to get the latest information on boat ramp, dock access and lake conditions. They also can visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search for “Lake Mac.”

Lake McConaughy is a multi-use lake that balances irrigation and environmental needs with recreational opportunities. Recreation on the lakes is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission through a lease with Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District.