Showing posts with label state park. Show all posts
Showing posts with label state park. Show all posts

Monday, March 12, 2012

Jackson Lake State Park Opens to Boating March 17

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


ORCHARD, Colo. – Jackson Lake State Park will open to boating on Saturday, March 17, at 8 a.m. The reservoir is free of ice and the lake is full. To prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS), including zebra and quagga mussels, all trailered vessels and all vessels with gas powered motors must be inspected prior to launch and must launch and load at the boat ramps.

Boaters are asked to take the necessary precautions before launching their vessel. Boats should be checked before leaving home for all safety equipment, that the motor is running properly, the boat has fuel and that there is no standing water inside the boat. This will allow for a faster inspection and a safer and more relaxing day on the water.

The inspection hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Jackson Lake State Park Visitor Center and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the inspection station. Beginning May 1, the hours will be 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day. All vessels need to be inspected or follow the pre-inspection process before launching.

The fishing has been good for trout from the dam, inlet and the west shore. Anglers can expect that there will not be a wiper run in the inlet canal this year. The lake was filled in February and will not be taking in any more water. The fishing should continue to improve as the water temperature rises. For more information, please call the park office at (970) 645-2551.

Jackson Lake is participating in the effort to curb the spread of aquatic nuisance species, including zebra and quagga mussels, in the state’s reservoirs and waterways. All vessels entering and leaving Jackson Lake will be inspected for ANS. If ANS are detected on any of the watercraft, decontamination is required. To speed up the inspection process, boaters are encouraged to clean, drain and dry their vessel, including removing the plug to drain the water, prior to entering the park and as soon as the watercraft has left the water. For more information about the state’s aquatic nuisance species program, visit www.parks.state.co.us/Boating.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Colorado State Parks Group Honors Local Hero with Life Saving Award

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


ORCHARD, CO. – The Colorado State Parks Employee Protective Association (CSPEPA) will present Jon Jones, a local resident and long time farmer, with the Life Saving Award on Oct. 19 for saving a woman’s life on April 4, 2011.

Jones was tending to his farming duties and checking fences when he saw a car in an irrigation ditch near Morgan County Roads 4 and Y.5. The vehicle was not visible from the roadway and was partially submerged in the water, upside down. Jones called 911 and began searching the wreckage for any passengers.

One female passenger was trapped inside. Several agencies responded to the incident including Colorado State Parks, the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, the Wiggins Fire Department, the Colorado State Patrol, the Morgan County Ambulance, and Air Life Colorado.
While rescue efforts were being made to extricate the victim from the vehicle, Jones left for his farm, about a mile away, and returned with a front loading tractor and a large chain. Jones was able to lift the vehicle from the water and allow EMS personnel access into the passenger compartment. The accident had occurred 15 hours prior to Jones locating the vehicle. Due to his sharp eye and quick actions, the woman’s life was saved.

Jones will receive his award on Wednesday, Oct. 19, during a regional meeting of park managers at the Jackson Lake State Park Visitor Center.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Monday, September 19, 2011

North Sterling State Park Invites Everyone to the Party – the Fall Star Party!

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


STERLING, CO. - Family and friends, young and old, are all invited to come join the party at North Sterling State Park – the Star Party, that is!

On Saturday Sept. 24, Northeastern Junior College Professor David Coles will host the ever popular Fall Star Party at the west end of Chimney View Campground at North Sterling State Park. Watch for shooting stars and view constellations and planets under the expert guidance of Professor Coles. Take a look at the skies through the telescopes provided, or bring a pair of your own binoculars for a close-up view, and don’t forget the hotdogs and marshmallows!

When does it start? When the stars come out!

Head out to the reservoir before sunset and take a stroll along the easy trails at Sunset Point for a beautiful view. Keep an eye out for our resident bald eagles, or watch for the other hawks and raptors migrating through – turkey vultures and Swainson’s hawks are departing southward for the winter, but rough-legged hawks, northern harriers, and merlins are just arriving from the north. Even golden eagles and ferruginous hawks have been making appearances, so make the most of your evening and enjoy the view.

Once the sun has set, make your way over to Chimney View Campground and watch the stars come out while you sit by a warm campfire and say hello to your neighbors. Stay as late as you’d like, and enjoy the evening!

Remember, the weather will be cool and the hilltop can be breezy – be sure to wear warm, layered clothing, and bring extra blankets, hats, gloves, flashlights, folding camp chairs, snacks and drinks to make sure you stay comfortable. Take advantage of the campfires and bring roasting sticks, marshmallows, and hot dogs! Valid daily or annual park passes are required, so carpooling is encouraged. Daily passes will be available at a self-serve station at the entrance for $7.00 (exact change or a check). Your daily pass is valid until noon the next day, so come back in the morning to go fishing, hiking, or bird watching! Don’t forget to ask us how you can get a FREE annual pass!

Looking for other fun activities at North Sterling? Visit our website at www.parks.state.co.us/parks/NorthSterling for more detailed information, ideas, and printable activities! North Sterling State Park now has web pages dedicated entirely to Family Activities, Boating, Fishing, and Hunting, with more to come this winter. Take a look at the FREE equipment you can borrow at the visitor center, check the calendar for upcoming events, get the most current update on our resident bald eagles, and more!

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Jackson Lake State Park is Calling All Chefs for a Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


ORCHARD, Colo. – Jackson Lake State Park’s inaugural Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Men, women, and youngsters who want to have fun, enjoy good food, and share their enthusiasm for chili and Dutch oven cooking are invited to enter the contest and enjoy the lake’s recreational opportunities.

Cook-off categories include: Main Dish (meat), Side Dish (vegetable), Breads, Desserts, Wild Game/Fish, Chili and Youth Chefs (any dish prepared by a chef under 16 years old.) There will also be a Cowboy Coffee category to participate in. The Cowboy Coffee will be a “People’s Choice Award,” and judging will start in the morning and end around 11 a.m.

The winners will be announced after all judging is complete. The judges will select the top three contestants in all categories and prizes will be awarded. Spectators will be able to taste all dishes after the judging is complete.

The event is free, but all vehicles entering the park must display an annual pass or purchase a $7 daily pass.

Entries for the Cook-off must be received by Sept. 7. To obtain registration forms and more information, visit www.parks.state.co.us/parks/jacksonlake, call the Jackson Lake State Park at (970) 645-2551 or email darby.shanks@state.co.us.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Bonny Lake State Park Invites All Chefs for the Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-Off

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


Bonny Lake State Park is hosting their Fourth Annual Dutch Oven & Chili Cook-off on Saturday, June 18, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participants who want to have fun, enjoy good food and share their enthusiasm for chili and Dutch oven cooking are invited to enter the contest or just come to dine.

Cook-off categories include: Main Dish (meat), Side Dish (vegetable), Breads, Dessert, Wild Game/Fish, Chili, and Youth Chefs (any dish prepared by a chef under 16 years old).

Prizes will be awarded to the top three entrants, chosen by the judges in all categories. An additional prize for contestants that use beef in their dishes may also be awarded. Spectators will be able to taste all dishes after the judging is complete.

The event is free, but all park visitors must display an annual pass or purchase a $7 day pass entrance into the park. Camping is available for all participants. Please call the park office for more details.

To obtain registration forms, call Bonny Lake State Park at (970) 354-7306 or email bonny.lake.park@state.co.us

Colorado State Parks get everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

North Sterling State Park Announces the 2011 Summer Junior Ranger Program Schedule

***Colorado State Parks Press Release***


STERLING, Colo. – North Sterling State Park is gearing up and getting ready for the 2011 summer camping season, including the Junior Ranger Program and the Saturday Night Campfire programs. Children and parents are invited to join us every Saturday afternoon from noon to 2 p.m. for the weekly Junior Ranger Program, where kids can explore nature, outdoors skills, and other topics through fun activities, crafts, and games led by North Sterling’s park naturalist.

The activities are designed for children ages 6 to 12, but parents and younger or older siblings are welcome to join in. The Junior Ranger Program is free of charge, including supplies and materials, but all vehicles that enter the park must have a valid park pass – carpooling is encouraged.

Fifteen Junior Ranger programs are planned from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, beginning on Saturday, May 28 with Bald is Beautiful, an exploration of the bald eagles that live at North Sterling and throughout Colorado. This week’s program will meet at the park amphitheater near Inlet Grove Campground inside the South Entrance. Call the park or check the park’s Family Activities page at www.parks.state.co.us/parks/NorthSterling for more details and meeting locations of future programs.

The full 2011 Junior Ranger Program schedule at North Sterling State Park includes:
• May 28: Bald is Beautiful - Explore the park’s resident bald eagles and their habitat
• June 4: Here Fishy, Fishy! - Learn about native fish, their habitat, and fishing techniques
• June 11: Work it Out - Have a Field Day at the park!
• June 18: Daddy Long Legs - Are spiders helpful or hairy? Find out!
• June 25: Buggin’ Out - Explore bugs and other creepy-crawlies that live at the park
• July 2: Let Freedom Ring - Listen to the sounds of nature and make music of your own!
• July 9: Rock Star - What’s out there high in the sky?
• July 16: Splish Splash - Make a splash - safely!
• July 23: Dino-mite! - What can old bones tell us about ancient history at the park?
• July 30: Wild Colorado - Colorado became a state on Aug, 4, 1876. Learn more about the state and its wild natives!
• Aug. 6: Go Green - Find out how to help keep the outdoors clean, safe, wild and free for years to come!
• Aug. 13: Logan County Livin’ - During the Logan County Fair, find out more about local agriculture and farming
• Aug. 20: Fire Up! - The Sterling Fire Department teams up with the park rangers to talk about fires and fire safety
• Aug. 27: Shakespeare goes Camping - An introduction to plays and theater - wilderness-style!
• Sept. 3: Fall in the Lake - As the summer season turns to autumn, find out about how animals, plants, and even fish get ready for the colder months.

Colorado State Parks get everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Jackson Lake State Park Opens to Boating March 18

**Colorado State Parks Press Release**

ORCHARD, CO. - Jackson Lake State Park opens to boating on Friday, March 18. The reservoir is free of ice and the lake is full. To prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS), including zebra and quagga mussels, all trailered vessels must be inspected prior to launch. The ANS inspection station will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Boaters are asked to take the necessary precautions before launching their vessel. Boats should be checked before leaving home for all safety equipment, that the motor is running properly, the boat has fuel and that there is no standing water inside the boat. This will allow for a faster inspection and a safer and more relaxing day on the water.

Beginning May 1, the inspection hours will expand to 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. every day. All vessels need to be inspected or follow the pre-inspection process before launching.

The fishing has been good for trout from the dam and the west shore. Anglers can expect that there will not be a wiper run in the inlet canal this year. The lake was filled in February and will not be taking in any more water. The fishing should continue to improve as the water temperature rises. For additional information, please call the park office at (970) 645-2551.

Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

North Sterling State Park Opens South Boat Ramp and Ski Beach for Labor Day Weekend

Colorado State Parks News Release


STERLING Colo. – North Sterling State Park will open the south boat ramp and ski beach areas on Friday, just in time for the Labor Day weekend. After numerous rain delays, which slowed construction progress, Hilltop Road will be reopening on Friday as well. The timing couldn’t be better since water levels may restrict boat launching at the Elks Boat Ramp. The south boat ramp has the largest parking lot for boaters to use, so the increase in parking will be a welcomed sight for visitors looking to enjoy themselves at North Sterling over the holiday weekend.
Water levels at North Sterling are very good for this time of year and the fishing has been improving. Wiper fishing is the best the park has seen since 2003 and seems to improve each month.
To prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (ANS), including zebra and quagga mussels, all vessels will require an inspection prior to launch. Vessels planning to launch outside of the posted inspection times will require a pre-inspection seal attached before launch. Pre-inspection seals are to be removed by boaters upon launching, and placed in the pre-inspection drop box, located at the boat ramp. Inspection times for Labor Day weekend are: Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. All live bait must have a receipt from a Colorado bait dealer, dated within 7 days of use. Failure to comply with all boating regulations could result in a fine.
Attracting nearly 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,531 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,100 campsites, and 57 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.colorado.gov/parks.