Lake Brownwood State Park has completed repairs needed to reopen their deepest boat ramp to the public.
According to park manger John Holland, two boats have been launched since the completion of these repairs and the extension of the concrete of the ramp. The first boat was one belonging to the park to make sure that the ramp functioned properly.
“It’s been quite a process getting it right with the water continuing to go down at the lake,” stated Holland. “When we finished, we launched our boat. We wanted to make sure it all worked well.”
The ramp officially opened at 8:00am Friday morning, August 12th and the second boat launched was a Tige with a direct drive prop unit under the boat according to Holland who stated it launched with no problems and is one of the hardest boats to launch in shallow water such as this.
The problem with the ramp had been that with wear and tear, plus the age of the ramp, the lower end concrete of the ramp had dropped and made the ramp very steep. New concrete was poured and the ramp was extended according to Holland. The end of the ramp was dragged so that excess materials could be moved to make easier launches. According to Holland, there was more material to move than expected and they had to make it deep enough for an easy launch. He stated that the ramp will remain open as long as possible; however it the lake level continues to drop, it could close again.
“We’ll use it while we can,” stated Holland. “We’re hoping that the rain will come soon and the water will be back up now that we have a good ramp to use.”
With the water being low at the lake this year, the number of visitors is down by about 40% said Holland. However, the last few weeks have picked up with family reunions and those planning a quick trip before school starts. Holland said one group continued their traditional summer plans, celebrating their 62nd annual family reunion at Lake Brownwood. This family reported to staff that they choose Lake Brownwood because of what the family stated is “a central location” for family members who have spread out across the state.
Holland said there are other good things are happening at the State Park. Grant funds to improve trails within the park were received earlier this year and will work will begin on this project next month. Holland reported that during the summer trails have had maintenance such as trimming back trees and foliage along with putting up some signs along the trails was completed.
Although the lake level is low, the park is open year round for visitors to enjoy, with cabins, areas for picnics or group gatherings and activities. These activities include camping, hiking (2.5 miles of hiking trails and a .5-mile nature trail.), boating, water skiing, jet skiing, fishing, nature study, swimming, and bird watching.
Pictured above is the boat ramp at Lake Brownwood State Park before repairs.
