Low water levels impacting MDC boat ramps at Lake of the Ozarks

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News from the region
Central
Published Date
03/11/2022
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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is encouraging the public to use caution when using MDC boat accesses at the Lake of the Ozarks. Boat ramps have sustained damage over the course of several months due to low water levels.

“The water levels have been too near the ends of the ramp, so when boats are loaded back into trailers, the prop wash excavates a hole just below the ramp,” explained MDC Central Regional Resource Management Supervisor John George. “As a result, trailers have been damaged when the tires fall into those holes.”

George noted there have been instances when smaller boats or trailers may not have problems, while larger or longer trailers could be damaged.

Affected boat ramps at the Lake of the Ozarks include:

  • Shawnee Bend Access
  • Coffman Bend Access
  • Wigwam Access
  • Brown Bend Access
  • Larry Gale Access

MDC has also received complaints about impacted ramps on local Mid-Missouri rivers, including accesses along the Missouri River.

MDC staff are currently working to fill holes at affected accesses, but the public is urged to use caution and report damaged ramps to MDC by calling 573-815-7900.