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CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Due to low Mississippi River levels, the Red Star Access boat ramp in Cape Girardeau is not operational, except for canoes or kayaks, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). A large sand bar blocks passage to the river channel. The current river stage is 6.2 feet at the Cape Girardeau gauge.
Conservation officials say the access will not be operational until the river stage rises to 8 feet or above, which is not in the immediate short-term forecast.
The closure of the boat ramp will also impact the Day on the River event sponsored by MDC. This event was planned to be held at Red Star Access, but will now be held at the Cape Girardeau Riverfront this Saturday, Sept. 22, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
According to the event coordinator, MDC Naturalist Angela Pierce, this event will still be fun for the whole family.
“Families will enjoy boat rides, live aquatic creature displays, and other river related activities.” Pierce said. “Just pick up your free ticket [for the boat rides] at the information table during the event.”
Day on the River is held in conjunction with National Hunting and Fishing Day, making the event an easy way for parents to introduce their children to the fun of fishing.
Find more information about Red Star Access and other Missouri conservation areas online at mdc.mo.gov. For more information about Day on the River, call the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center at (573)290-5218.
