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News Release Archive
Camping and Vehicle Access Restricted at Belle Fourche Reservoir
Media Contact:
Jay Leasure, (605) 394-9757
Patience Hurley, phurley@usbr.gov
For Release: November 19, 2014
RAPID CITY, S.D. -- Public safety, law enforcement and resource damage concerns have prompted Reclamation to restrict vehicle access to Belle Fourche Reservoir's Tequila Beach. Tequila Beach is located on Reclamation-managed lands in the Gadens Point area of Belle Fourche Reservoir.
"This is a popular area with the public, and use continues to increase at the reservoir. The 'Tequila Beach' area experiences high use during the summer months. Swimming, fishing, camping, picnicking and other day use activities are all popular," said Joe Hall, Division Manager of Environment and Resources for Reclamation's Dakotas Area Office. "Unfortunately, vehicle access to this area causes congestion, law enforcement and public safety concerns," said Hall.
Effective immediately, RV camping and motorized vehicles are not allowed in the Tequila Beach Area. Pedestrian-only access and tent camping will be allowed. Reclamation is developing and will designate a day-use-only graveled vehicle parking area to be located in close proximity to Tequila Beach.
Reclamation and South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, continue to look for opportunities to provide improvements to the Belle Fourche Reservoir area for the public to enjoy. Current and anticipated improvements include the new Tequila Beach parking area, a new gravel/all-weather road at Middle Point, and a new beach and volleyball court at Rocky Point State Recreation Area.
Questions and/or concerns should be directed to Jay Leasure at 605-394-9757 ext. 3011.
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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.
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