News Release Archive

Reclamation Closes Gem County Boat Ramp for Needed Repairs

Media Contact: Annette Ross, (208) 378-5322, aross@usbr.gov
Jeff Reavis, jreavis@usbr.gov

For Release: February 13, 2015

EMMETT, Idaho - The Bureau of Reclamation has closed the Gem County Boat Ramp located upstream of the Black Canyon Diversion Dam. The boat ramp closure is due to deterioration of the ramp and it will remain closed until reservoir water levels are low enough to safely make repairs. Black Canyon Diversion Dam is located on the Payette River near Emmett.

Reclamation determined that it is necessary to close and repair the concrete ramp because of damage caused by propeller action, water level changes, and ice heaving that has eroded the lower end of the ramp, dangerously exposing rebar. Gem County recently placed concrete barriers closing the ramp until repairs have been completed.

"We are concerned about the safety of the public," said Jeff Reavis, Natural Resources Manager. "Gem County and Reclamation want to ensure that recreationists are safe while enjoying Black Canyon Reservoir."

Black Canyon Dam is part of the Boise Project and was constructed between 1922 and 1924. It provides irrigation water to nearly 1,760 farms in Gem and Payette counties. The Powerplant generates about 62 million kilowatt hours annually.

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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.