West Mayer State Park along the Columbia River is closed through mid-April 2024 to allow workers to replace the boat ramp and restroom plus expand vehicle parking, a $1.14 million project.
Tapani Construction, Inc., of Battle Ground is the contractor, according to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.
“The improved boat ramp will provide anglers and others better facilities to launch into the Columbia River,’’ said David Spangler, park manager, in a news release.
During the closure, the nearest boat ramps are at the Port of The Dalles to the east and Hood River to the west.
Yale Park boat ramp closed
Pacific Power will be temporarily lowering Yale Reservoir to support flow requirements downstream of Merwin Dam. As a result, the Yale Park boat ramp on Yale Reservoir will be closed starting Tuesday.
Typically, Merwin outflows this time of year are met by moving water from Swift Reservoir through the hydroelectric projects to Merwin Dam for release.
To support an ongoing dam safety project on Swift dam, Swift reservoir has been drafted approximately 50 feet, and no water is available for downstream use. Water from Yale and Merwin reservoirs is being used to meet the license requirement.
PacifiCorp said in a statement that the length of this closure is not known and dependent on the return of higher natural inflows, and on the reduction of downstream minimum flow requirements in mid-December.
During the closure, Merwin reservoir remains accessible at the Speelyai Park boat ramp.
Minimal fee increase at Lewis River facilities
Camping and picnic sites on the Lewis River in southwest Washington will see a new fee structure starting Dec. 1.
Day-use parking will be $1 at Merwin Park, and $4 at Speelyai Bay, Cresap Bay, Saddle Dam, Yale Park, Cougar Park, Beaver Bay Park, and Swift Forest Camp. A season day-use parking pass is $29.
Campsite will range in price from $27 to $34.
PacifiCorp said in a statement that fee structure will help cover increased operating costs for the recreation facilities and keep the facilities well maintained and ready for use.
Also starting Dec. 1, reservations can be made by reserved campers for boat moorage slips at Cresap Bay Campground. In spring 2024, visitors will be able to reserve dispersed shoreline campsites on Yale and Swift Reservoirs and Park picnic shelters.
