Elephant Butte remains open as falling water exposes debris, limits boat access
Elephant Butte Lake State Park remains open as falling water levels expose debris, create shoreline hazards and affect boat ramp access.
State Parks crews are clearing shoreline hazards and adjusting ramp access as reservoir releases continue through July 28
Organ Mountain News report
ELEPHANT BUTTE - Elephant Butte Lake State Park remains open as falling reservoir levels expose debris, soft shoreline areas and terrain normally covered by water.
The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation has confirmed that releases from Elephant Butte Reservoir will continue through Tuesday, July 28, according to New Mexico State Parks.
A long-reach excavator is clearing silt and debris from the Marina del Sur boat ramp to preserve boater access for as long as conditions remain safe. Removed material will be dried and screened, with debris disposed of off-site and clean silt stored for future park road repairs.
Crews will continue removing exposed debris from high-use areas and locations where shoreline hazards pose immediate safety risks throughout the summer and fall. Contractors are also available to assist with submerged hazards.
State Parks is working with an engineering firm and marine construction specialists to evaluate short-term measures and possible long-term improvements for boater access.
Visitors are urged to watch for unstable shoreline areas, newly exposed debris, temporary signage and changing buoy locations. Boaters should travel slowly in shallow or unfamiliar water, wear life jackets and maintain safe distances from other vessels.
Camping, hiking, bicycling, wildlife viewing, shoreline recreation and paddle-craft opportunities remain available. The park’s Brew Lab 101 dock also remains open.
No harmful algal blooms have been detected at the reservoir, although the lake remains under watch status.
Updated park conditions are available at www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/know-before-you-go-faqs/ and www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/elephant-butte-lake-state-park/.
For current local information, contact Elephant Butte Lake State Park at 575-744-5923.
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