Waterbury, Vt. – Concrete ramps will be installed at the Waterbury Dam and Blush Hill boat launches this February to improve recreational access around Waterbury Reservoir. Green Mountain Power (GMP) will be doing the work as part of the company’s commitment to improving the Waterbury Dam and surrounding areas.
GMP will improve four recreational access areas around Waterbury Reservoir: Moscow Paddlers’ access, Waterbury Dam boat launch, Blush Hill boat launch and Anglers’ Trail. The Anglers’ Trail was completed in 2018 and the other three locations will be finished in time for the 2019 summer season.
Every winter, the water level of the reservoir is drawn down to create space for spring run-off. When the water levels dip below the bottom of the ramps in February, the pre-cast concrete panels will be installed. Installing the panels when the water is low will minimize the environmental impact.
During construction, each location will be closed to the public for safety reasons. The following closure dates are anticipated, although adjustments may be made due to weather:
- Waterbury Dam boat launch: February 4 - February 15, 2019
- Blush Hill boat launch: February 18 - March 9, 2019
Long-term maintenance and management will be performed by the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.
Waterbury Reservoir is the ninth largest waterbody in Vermont, created in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps as a flood control project. There are two State Parks, 30 remote campsites, and countless activities at the reservoir, including boating, wildlife viewing, swimming, camping, and fishing. Waterbury Reservoir is almost completely surrounded by state land, managed primarily by the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation as part of the 44,444-acre Mount Mansfield State Forest.