Colorado’s Vega State Park Opens to Boating
OutdoorHub 05.08.13
The ice is gone and Colorado Parks and Wildlife has opened Vega State Park to boaters. The Island boat ramp is now open and the Oak Point and Early Settlers boat ramps will open by Memorial Day weekend, depending on water levels.
Beginning May 15, park personnel will be turning the water on in the campgrounds as well as the dump station and camper services building.
“Vega State Park is popular place for visitors from across the state,” said Park Manager Kedrick Robinson. “The lake is located at 8,000 feet on the Grand Mesa and offers beautiful views, fishing, camping and great water sports opportunities.”
Robinson reminds boaters that before launching their vessel, their required safety equipment must be in good working order and be readily available should an emergency occur.
“We recommend that you inspect your equipment before you launch,” added Robinson. “If you prefer, ask park personnel for a safety inspection and we will make sure you are in compliance.”
The required equipment may vary depending on the watercraft. At a minimum, boats must have one Personal Flotation Device per person on board, and an approved sound producing device. Fire extinguishers are required on certain motorboats.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife stresses the importance of knowing which gear is required for your craft. For a detailed list of required equipment, go to www.bit.ly/boatequipment
“If you need a loner PFD, come to the visitors center and we will be happy to let you use one for the day,” added Robinson. “We urge you to ask and avoid heading out on the water without a flotation device.”
Colorado Parks and Wildlife urges the public to wear their floatation device at all times, keep an eye on the weather, avoid alcohol and follow all boating rules and regulations. In addition, youth 12 years and younger are required to wear an approved flotation device at all times while boating.
All trailered or motorized vessels must go through an aquatic nuisance species inspection prior to launching. Currently, inspection station hours are limited until later in May. Boats can be inspected five days a week at the entrance station, or seven days a week at the park’s office, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Boaters who launch without the required inspection will receive a citation.
