Water levels at Calamus will stay low for weeks

Water levels at Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area will remain low for the next few weeks so the Twin Loups Irrigation District can conduct crucial repair work to the soil cement on Virginia Smith Dam.

Access to some boat ramps is affected. The ramps at Homestead Knolls and Nunda Shoals are open. However, large boats will have difficulty launching at Nunda Shoals because of shallow water. Ramps at Buckshot Bay and Valley View Flat are closed.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission appreciates the patience of its park guests and is committed to providing access to the reservoir. However, the movement of sand in the reservoir has posed challenges, particularly at the Homestead Knolls boat ramp. Staff are working to secure a contractor who will remove the sand built up at Homestead Knolls.

The dam repair is part of the district’s ongoing efforts to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam. The Twin Loups Irrigation District provides irrigation water for approximately 52,000 acres from water stored in Calamus and Davis Creek reservoirs.

For updates on reservoir access, call the park office at 308-346-5666.

Water levels are low at many reservoirs around the state. Game and Parks advises boaters to be patient and cautious when launching and loading a boat.

Game and Parks recommends boat operators have a spotter with them or check to see if the end of the ramp is visible from the shoreline or dock before launching if water clarity allows.

Local staff are a great resource to get the most current ramp conditions as water levels and ramp conditions vary from one water body to the next.

When a water body’s level drops, less of the boat ramp is underwater, reducing the length of the ramp for a successful launch, which can cause problems launching and loading a boat.

Once on the water, boat operators should also be mindful of the increased possibility of underwater hazards during low-water conditions.

To view a map of other boat ramps in the state, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides-maps/maps/ and scroll to Public Boating Areas.