NW Wyoming News

It was quite the busy season at the Reservoir in 2022! In the fall we conducted our After Action Review (AAR) process, which included gathering feedback from the community, reviewing data on visitations, special events, budget, and the status of our Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) program.

We’ve discussed the findings of the AAR with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board in November and December 2022 and will be adjusting Reservoir operations in 2023.

Adjustments to 2023 operations at the Reservoir will focus on five goals:

Continue to manage the Reservoir’s ANS program:

• BPR will continue to not issue permits to any new Class 5 watercraft, which includes no new Class 5 permits for new boaters or for current boaters who replace their current class 5 watercraft.
• Existing boat permit holders may renew, however Class 5 watercraft must boat exclusively at the Reservoir.
• Continue the existing watercraft inspection and decontamination program, which includes inspecting all watercraft as they enter and exit the Reservoir.

BPR will explore the future of all Class V boating during the future Boulder Reservoir Master Plan update.

Provide a new pass option:

• Last year, BPR introduced the systemwide “Summer Fun Pass” so boat permit holders can buy what they want.
• This year, we will offer a Reservoir-only pass that will allow unlimited entrances from April to October. Permit fees will still be separate.

Increase the quantity and cost for small craft permits:

• BPR will add an additional 500 weekday permits for a total of 1,500 weekday permits and 1,700 season permits, for a total of 3,200 permits available for purchase.
• BPR will increase the cost of all watercraft permits. Check our website for permit price details. Small craft boat permit sales are scheduled to start at noon on Wednesday, February 1, 2023.

Recover watercraft storage costs:

• BPR will raise the cost of watercraft storage fees by 10%. This increase will be implemented annually until storage fees are 2/3 of the market average.

Encouraging sustainability:

• Gate fees will continue to be discounted by 25% for customers that arrive by foot, non-motorized vehicle, or have three or more people in a car during the high season.
• BPR will continue work on South Shore trail enhancements through our capital planning process.

For the most updated information, check the Boulder Reservoir website and sign up for the e-newsletter.

Original source can be found here.