Editor's Note: This story has been corrected. The original story stated that the Rochon Sands Boat Launch had closed for the spring. It is in fact the Rochon Sands Heights Boat Launch, managed by the County of Stettler, that has been closed by the County of Stettler. The Independent apologizes for the error.
With work needing to be done and low water levels at Buffalo Lake, Stettler County Council has approved the temporary closure of the Rochon Sands Heights Boat Launch. The Rochon Sands Boat Launch, which is managed by the Summer Village of Rochon Sands, is open for the season.
Stettler County Council made the decision was made at the April 9 council meeting.
While there is still ice on the lake, Stettler County director of operations Greg Jackson says that the water level has "dropped somewhat further since last fall," and the angle at the bottom of the boat launch makes it unsafe to launch boats.
"There's concern with the ability to launch boats of all sizes," said Jackson.
Jackson's recommendation was to close the boat launch immediately, allowing county staff to do the work that needs to be done at the site as well as preclude boat owners from having their boats become trapped on the lake should water levels drop further.
Continuing, Jackson noted that his department was putting together a plan to mitigate the issue.
"I'm not sure if we have the right information," said Coun. Justin Stevens. "I'm having a hard time understanding how the water went down over the winter."
Jackson replied that with dredging occurring on the lake, the water depths have been confirmed, and they have decreased. He further noted that even though ice was on the lake, evaporation could still occur, as can seepage from below if a solid frost does not set in.
"If we shut this, no one will get a boat in the water," said Reeve Larry Clarke.
According to Jackson, with the ramp closed, needed repair work can be done, and if the situation improves, the boat launch could still be opened later in the season, potentially by July 1.
Instead of allowing administration a blanket closure, council approved the closure of the ramp while construction proceeds, with an update on conditions at the lake to return to council once construction has concluded.
