Colorado Parks and Wildlife Prepares for Boat Ramp Closures

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is developing alternative water-rescue operations as low reservoir levels may force boat-ramp closures this summer ^[1].

These preparations are critical because traditional launch points are becoming unusable due to prolonged drought. If ramps close, emergency responders lose their primary means of deploying rescue boats to reach people in distress on the water.

The agency is focusing its efforts on state reservoirs across the Front Range, including those at Cherry Creek State Park ^[1], ^[2]. Because the drought has significantly lowered water levels, the agency is training teams to operate without the use of standard ramps ^[2].

"We’re seeing low water levels across the state, and that could affect boating," said Jake Vuolo, the marina manager at Cherry Creek State Park ^[1].

To maintain safety standards, the agency is implementing a contingency plan that shifts away from heavy boat trailers. This new strategy involves the use of smaller craft, and shore-based techniques to ensure responders can still access the water ^[3].

"CPW is training its rescue teams to operate without traditional boat ramps, so we can still reach people in the water if ramps close," said a CPW spokesperson ^[2].

The shift in tactics reflects the increasing volatility of water levels in the region. By diversifying their deployment methods, the agency aims to mitigate the risks associated with the potential closures of ramps during the 2024 boating season ^[1].

"We have a contingency plan for water rescues if ramps close, using smaller craft and shore‑based techniques," said a CPW public affairs officer ^[3].