The Department of Water Resources, in conjunction with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, has opened a temporary low water boating launch site at the Bidwell Canyon Boat Ramp.
Because of low water levels at Lake Oroville (currently the lake is only 36 percent of capacity) all of the paved boat ramps have been closed.
To provide for boat launching and recovery until the reservoir refills, the low water launch facility was constructed and will be ready for use beginning Friday, December 14, 2007.
Once the Lake's water elevation climbs to 700 feet, the Spillway Boat Ramp will be re-opened. When the water level rises to approximately 705 feet elevation, the Bidwell Canyon and Lime Saddle paved ramps will be re-opened.
Lake Oroville elevations can be obtained by calling the DWR Lake Conditions Recording at (530) 534-2307, or accessing the DWR Web site at http://www.lakeoroville.water.ca.gov/about/stats/levels.cfm.
Launching conditions are subject to change due to weather, changing lake levels or other variables. Four wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Specific information about the daily launch conditions can be obtained by calling the California Department of Parks and Recreation at: (530) 538-2200.
The Department of Water Resources operates and maintains the State Water Project, provides dam safety and flood control and inspection services, assists local water districts in water management and water conservation planning, and plans for future statewide water needs.
Contact the DWR Public Affairs Office for more information about DWR's water activities.
