Rose Lake boat launch work begins

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game's Rose Lake boat launch and picnic area was temporarily closed to public access today.

The closure is needed for public safety during site improvement work, and the facility will be re-opened in mid-November.

The project was initially planned for last spring, but high spring precipitation extended load limits on area roads and raised the lake level. As a result, the work could not start as planned.

Although anglers and boaters will not begin to benefit from the project until mid-November, the delay resulted in unimpeded access during the popular spring and summer fishing seasons.

The project involves converting the Rose Lake boat launch from a primitive site to a modern facility with expanded and closer parking, a new access road to the ramp, and a larger boat loading area.

Paved and accessible parking, meeting Americans with Disabilities Act regulations, is planned near the docks and ramps. Boaters will benefit from a new double lane launch surface, a new boarding dock system and a boat preparation area.

Once completed, the Rose Lake fishing and boating access site will provide multiple outdoor recreational opportunities for local families and the general public for years to come.

For temporary small boat launching Fish and Game will have the old gravel ramp at the Watson Road fishing access site open while the main ramp is temporarily closed.

For additional project information, please contact Fish and Game's Panhandle Region office at (208) 769-1414.