Photo Credit: Steve Ward Aramark

Park Announces Work On Castle Rock Cut To Begin

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Superintendent Stan Austin announced today that work has just begun on deepening the Castle Rock Cut.

National Park Service (NPS) staff have placed " Closed Area " buoys around the work area and started readying the site for the contractor, Brown Brothers Construction of Loa, Utah.

Based on current and anticipated low–water levels this spring, excavation will go down to approximately 3,610 feet, removing over 15,000 cubic yards of material. If the lake drops lower in subsequent years, excavation could continue to a maximum depth of 3,580 feet.

The Castle Rock Cut is a popular short-cut for boaters on Lake Powell. Travelling through the cut saves approximately 10 miles of boating. " This not only saves time and gas for boaters, " stated Facilities Chief Dan Bishop, " but it also provides for a safer boating experience. "

Lake levels during the summer of 2008 allowed the cut to be open for the first time in five years. It was closed in November of 2008 due to low water levels.

Beginning immediately, the construction area will be officially closed to the public for safety reasons. Park rangers will be enforcing this closure. The park will notify the public when the area is open again. More information is www.nps.gov/glca .

You may reach Arizona Boating and Watersports at:
480/947-6219 or 619/523-3091
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