Colorado Reservoirs Close Boat Ramps Amid Dropping Water Levels, Initiate Fish Salvage
Several reservoirs in Colorado are closing boat ramps due to declining water levels, a consequence of ongoing drought conditions. The Rifle Gap State Park boat ramp will close for the rest of the 2026 season, although the lake remains open for hand-launched vessels such as kayaks and canoes. Similarly, Crawford State Park's boat ramp will close, following closures at Paonia and Mancos State Parks in July. Cherry Creek State Park is also nearing a closure, with water levels just inches away from the critical mark. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has warned of potential unsafe conditions due to exposed lakebeds. Additionally, an emergency fish salvage has been announced at Daigre Reservoir in Huerfano County to address the drought's impact on local water needs. The salvage allows for the suspension of usual fishing limits, encouraging licensed anglers to participate. 
