access050708
Join the Club
Club Outdoors is where you can keep up with Star Tribune experts and others in Minnesota who love fishing, hunting and other outdoor recreation. Click here to access our outdoors newsletter, the Club Outdoors Facebook Fan Page, Twitter and more.
Stay in touch via:
Blog Topics
Newsletters
Home | Sports | Club Outdoors
Boat access still a problem in some areas
Print this story
E-mail this story
Save to del.icio.us
Share on Facebook
Share on DiggMore from Club Outdoors
Boaters could find problems at some public water accesses on Saturday, thanks to the late spring.
Some boat ramps might not be usable, and some docks might not be installed by Saturday, Department of Natural Resources officials said this week.
"The late ice-out is causing us problems this spring,'' said Nancy Steward, the DNR's public water access program coordinator.
Most accesses in the southern half of the state will be in good condition and open for use, she said.
"Some lakes in the northern half of the state may still have ice, which poses a challenge in making repairs,'' she said.
Steward said boaters should check ahead first, and have alternative plans -- just in case.
Boat accesses can be damaged over the winter by shifting ice.
"Some may be fine, and some may be unusable,'' she said. "Normally the ice goes out, they fix it, and nobody knows [it was a problem].''
Stewart offers these suggestions for anglers this weekend:
• Be patient and prepared at public water accesses and use extra care while launching and loading boats.
• Inspect the ramp condition before using it; some of the worst ramp damage can be below the water line.
• If your favorite lake access is unusable, be prepared to try another.
• Be careful boating because there could be free-floating ice sheets on some lakes.
DOUG SMITH
Recent Club Outdoors stories
Outdoors Journal: Bears head for dens - May 6, 2008
Outdoors Journal: Bears head for dens - The peak time for bears going into their winter sleep in this area is between Sept. 24 and Oct. 24. More
Join the discussion: Your Voices is a group blog featuring unique perspectives from members of your community. Find commentary on current events, public issues and day-to-day life in Minnesota.
Recent posts
 Save Your $$ With CouponsDiscounts on services, entertainment, dining, gifts, and more. Start saving! |
Win tickets to see The Hidden Cameras with Gentlemen Reg at 7th Street Entry.Vita.mn presents The Hidden Cameras with Gentlemen Reg at 7th Street Entry on Dec. 2. |
Comment on this story | Be the first to comment | Hide reader comments