John Martin Reservoir to Offer Greater Access for Hunting and Boating This Winter
VPG | Nov 20, 2015 | Comments 0
HASTY, Colo. – For the first time in a long time, John Martin Reservoir has enough water for the lane 19 Boat Ramp to remain open for the 2015-2016 waterfowl hunting season.
In recent years around this time, Colorado Parks and Wildlife has had to close the reservoir and restrict public access on the reservoir’s east side near the waterfowl resting area – an area off limits to hunting. While the waterfowl resting area is still in effect, the limited public access has changed.
On the North Shore of the reservoir, the waterfowl resting area will be marked by the tall pole with a wind sock on the end of Point Overlook. The line will run straight south of Point Overlook to the south shore. From the water there will be a “Boats Keep Out” buoy line that will mark the waterfowl resting area.
“We are asking hunters to be mindful of the boating access; all hunters must hunt outside the closed area. The only access in to the closed area from land or boat will be with an unloaded firearm to retrieve downed waterfowl,” said Area Wildlife Manager Travis Black.
“No Hunting” restrictions will include the north shore area that the state park encompasses, as the state park is a no hunting area; the shoreline of the south shore and the section of land that meets the toe of the dam.
In an effort to promote better access for fishing and bird watching, there are also additional changes on the park.
“We have been working hard with the US Army Corps of Engineers and our Wildlife counterparts to really improve public access at John Martin Reservoir this year, and we are hoping the public enjoys the fruits of the labor,” said Park Manager Dan Kirmer.
Access to the north east corner of the reservoir has been opened for the winter season. Visitors can get right down to the water’s edge to enjoy the reservoir through the winter season.
Aquatic Nuisance Species inspections are still required for vessel wishing to launch at the Lane 19 boat ramp, but boaters are encouraged to call before coming for inspection availability.
“We have reached that time of year that brings with it reduced staffing for the state park and state wildlife areas,” said Kirmer. “However, inspections can be obtained at the John Martin Reservoir State Park Visitor Center between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, or at the Area 12 Wildlife Office in Lamar by appointment.”
Appointments at the wildlife office can be set by calling (719) 336-6600.
For more information about John Martin Reservoir State Park call 719-829-1801, or visit http://cpw.state.co.us/
See a map of the access boundaries here: https://drive.google.
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