For Immediate Release

Date: June 1, 2004

Dedication Set for Gedney Creek Boating Access

Boaters this season will find a much-improved facility when launching at Foster Reservoir on the South Santiam River east of Sweet Home. A new two-lane concrete ramp, boarding floats, restroom and other improvements are now in place. Official dedication of the facility is set for Thursday, June 10, at 1:30 p.m.

"This is another excellent project for boaters," says Ron Rhodehamel, Facilities Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. "The facility improvement solves the safety, aesthetic and usability problems of the old ramp and floats. We think boaters are really going to enjoy this."

The improvements are the product of a close partnership between the Oregon Dept. of Fish & Wildlife who administer federal Sport Fish Restoration funds, the Linn County Parks and Rec. Dept., the Oregon State Marine Board and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The facility is located on the north shore of Foster Reservoir. Including previous improvements, the new and expanded ramp, boarding floats, restroom facility and parking area reconstruction improvements totaled approximately $280,000.

According to the Marine Board, fishing accounts for more than half the use at Foster Reservoir, with water sports like skiing and tubing accounting for much of the remaining use. "Another added benefit of this facility is for sailboat users who previously did not have an adequate launch facility here," said Rhodehamel. "The accessibility of the new facility is also enhanced to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, too."

The formal dedication is scheduled for June 10, at 1:30 p.m. at the Gedney Creek Ramp. If you plan to attend, please contact Sabrina Owings at 503-373-1405 ext. 228.

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