LEESPORT -- Due to heavy rains from Tropical Storm Ida and the resulting runoff, the boat launches at Blue Marsh Lake remain closed to the public. The lake level is currently nine feet above the normal summer pool. With key gaging stations on the Schuylkill River below flood stage, this morning dam operators began to reduce water levels in the lake by increasing outflow to 3000 cubic feet per second.
The Dry Brooks Day Use Area is open for land-based recreation; however, the swimming area remains closed. Once the lake returns to the normal summer pool, tests will be run to determine if algae and bacteria levels allow the area to open.
Due to this release, some additional areas in the Stilling Basin have been closed off for public safety. There is no projection for how long it will take to bring the lake levels down to a level that will allow the launches to open.
Visitors to Blue Marsh should be aware of the closure of the boat launches and the restriction on boating at the facility. Visitors who are using the trail should be aware that low sections may be flooded. Anyone venturing into wet areas should use caution.
Updates will be provided as information becomes available.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants you to stay safe. Don’t become a statistic – and always be prepared for the unexpected! To find a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project near you visit www.CorpsLakes.us.
Release no. 21-026