PRESS RELEASES - AUGUST 2006

Drought Forces South End Closure of Lake Arlington
North End of Lake Remains Open to Fishing and Boating

August 24, 2006

The extended drought in north Texas has prompted the City of Arlington to close the south end of Lake Arlington to all boating and recreational uses beginning, Friday, Aug. 25.
After several weeks of decreasing lake levels at a rate of approximately one foot per week, the lake reached its closing level of 541 feet on August 21.

At 541 feet above sea level, the lake becomes dangerous for boating and recreational uses, according to Parks Department Interim Assistant Director Oscar Carmona.
“When water levels drop this low, tree stumps, road beds, sand bars and road and bridge pilings are closer to the surface and pose a greater hazard to boats and recreational watercraft,” he said.

Because the lake level has dropped to 541 feet, the south end past Bowman Springs Park, including the Bowman Springs Boat Ramp, will close Aug. 25. Bowman Springs Park and the north end of the lake will remain open.

“By keeping the north end of the lake and the Richard Simpson Boat Ramp open, lake visitors will still be able to enjoy fishing, boating and other recreational water activities,” Carmona said.
The closed area will be marked by a buoy line, which will extend across the lake from Bowman Springs Park. The buoy line will be equipped with solar-powered flashing lights to increase its visibility at night.

Lake closure signage is going up in Bowman Springs Park and Fort Worth’s Eugene McCray Park.

Parks Department officials estimate the south end of the lake will remain closed until the water rises to a level of 542.5 feet.

Media calls about Lake Arlington closure should be directed to Parks Marketing Manager Kelly Drawdy at 817-459-6931 or cell phone 817-680-0867.

For more information about Lake Arlington, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 817-459-5473 or visit www.aceacorn.com.