The $401,645 construction contract was awarded on July 13, 2010. Work includes removing deteriorated concrete and reconstructing a new boat ramp, which will include an accessible parking area, new metal railings, and a system to reduce wave action at the ramp.

Work is expected to begin immediately following the Labor Day weekend, at which time the boat ramp and lower portions of the campground will be closed until May 2011, when construction is expected to be completed.

"We are closing the boat ramp for safety reasons," said Robert "Hap" Boyer, Reclamation Resource Manager. "The area will be a construction zone and too dangerous for the public to be near."

Although the closure prohibits boat ramp access onto the reservoir, the public will still have access to other areas around the reservoir for recreational activities.

Little Wood Dam, which impounds the reservoir, was completed in 1939. It stands 129 feet high and serves as a multiple-use facility providing irrigation water, hydropower production, flood control, and recreation.

For questions regarding the maintenance or closure, please contact Mr. Robert "Hap" Boyer at (208) 678-0461 ext. 15.