Des Moines County Conservation invites the public to celebrate the completion of the reconstructed boat ramp at Big Hollow Lake with a ribbon cutting ceremony on site at noon this Friday, April 8.
The project was made possible by private donations which provided the match for a marine fuel tax grant awarded by the state. The rebuilt ramp is less steep than the original. Visitor complaints and public input identified the need to improve the ramp's grade and the project was made a priority in the recent park master plan which outlines goals for many other future park improvements, many of which focus on accessibility. Future improvements at the boat ramp site will include an ADA-accessible walkway from the parking area to the bottom of the ramp, new boat docks, and additional paving at the boat ramp area and throughout the park.
"This is just the first of many improvements coming to this park," said Chris Lee, conservation department Executive Director. "With the incredible support of this community, Big Hollow really will become a world-class park."
The department is waiting on the decisions on two separate grant applications submitted this spring. And a capital campaign team recently formed to raise additional funds which are often used to leverage grants, much like was done for the boat ramp. If received, the pending grants will allow for the addition of 18 additional RV campsites, paving of the existing RV sites, and adding paved walkways at the beach as well as at the fishing jetty and kayak launch below the campground.
Big Hollow Lake is an immensely popular fishing destination, attracting thousands of residents and visitors to the county park three miles west of Sperry every year. It's not uncommon for dozens of trucks and trailers to line the parking area on any given Saturday throughout the summer. The reconstructed ramp will make accessing the lake a bit easier for anglers and recreational boaters alike.
"An improved boat ramp is something a lot of people have asked for over the years and we're happy to offer it just as the spring fishing and boating season kicks off," said Lee.
While the ramp is currently open and available to use, some site work still needs to be finished. The ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon on Friday will mark the official completion of the project. Boaters and anglers are encouraged to bring their boats and fishing poles to include in promotional photos.