COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) - Colorado's largest body of water is on track to approach historic lows this fall, prompting early closures of some of the area's recreation opportunities.
The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation says Blue Mesa Reservoir, which feeds into the Colorado River, is currently at 39 percent capacity.
Sandra Snell-Dobert, a spokeswoman for Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area, says the last time water levels at the reservoir west of Gunnison were this low was in 1987.
She says that soon, water levels may be too low to launch and operate boats at most ramps.
The Gazette reported Thursday that the Elk Creek ramp will remain open so boaters can continue to access the reservoir.
Other Colorado River reservoirs such as Lake Powell are facing similar shortages.
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Information from: The Gazette, http://www.gazette.com
