Folsom Lake implements speed limit for boating as low water conditions commence
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is now applying a temporary 5 mph speed limit for boats as a result of submerged hazards and low water conditions, according to the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
On account of low water conditions, four of the five boat ramps at Folsom Lake are dry.
The speed limit is needed because low water levels have brought rocks on the bottom of the lake closer to the surface, according to a news release sent out Thursday by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Because of this, boats could be damaged in shallower areas of the lake.
“We want to make sure our visitors are aware of the increase in emerging underwater hazards resulting from low water levels,” said Mike Howard, the parks superintendent of California State Parks, in a statement. “We urge people to exercise extreme caution while boating on the lake. A high-speed vessel collision with a submerged rock can easily turn disastrous.”
Folsom Lake has closed four of the boat ramps for launching: Rattlesnake Bar, Granite Bay, Folsom Point and Peninsula.
As of Friday, the only ramp that will be available for boaters will be Hobie Cove, which is located at Browns Ravine in El Dorado County.
The day use and picnic areas of Folsom Lake will remain open, officials said.
