May 2 - Blue Marsh Lake recreation areas were closed to the public May 1 due to recent heavy rains and flood damage reduction actions. The lake level rose nearly five and a half feet higher than the normal summer pool.
On the evening of May 1, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers determined the Schuylkill River could accept additional storm run-off and at 10 p.m., dam operators started taking actions to reduce water levels in the lake.
With the reduction in lake level, the staff at Blue Marsh will open the Dry Brooks Day Use area and Church Road Access for day use activities on Saturday, May 3. Swimming at the beach area will be prohibited. Restroom facilities at both areas will be restricted to portable toilets only.
Gate settings for the weekend will be made the afternoon of May 2. USACE projects that the lake level will return to normal levels by Monday, May 5. If the lake level falls below the 292 elevation, ramps will be opened for boating; however, there is no guarantee this will happen before Monday.
People visiting Blue Marsh Lake should be aware of the closures of the boat ramps. Paddle craft access to the lake is available at remote areas; however those users should exercise caution. Visitors who are using the trail should be aware that low sections may still be flooded. Anyone venturing into the water use caution as hazards may not be apparent.
As an appreciation for the public’s cooperation during this event, fees will not be collected at the Dry Brooks Day Use Area.
NOTE: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Blue Marsh Lake staff are happy to report they will open the boat launches (State Hill Boat Ramp, Dry Brooks Boat Ramp and Sheidy Boat Launch) to the public for recreation activities on Monday, May 5 at 7 a.m. Lake levels have been reduced to a point where the Boat Launches can be accessed by the public.
Release no. 14-011