Byllesby boat ramps closed; authorities will help people remove vessels

Authorities have closed Dakota and Goodhue counties’ boat launches at Lake Byllesby because the security warning/boat restraining cable above the dam has failed.

Recent flooding also has had a major impact on the reservoir’s elevation, according to Dakota County Sheriff Dave Bellows.

Dakota County Shoreland Zoning Administrator Tom Berry has advised that staff members are in the process of dropping the water to a winter elevation level. That could create problems for homeowners attempting to trailer a boat.

On Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Dakota County Sheriff's Office and Parks Department will have staff on hand at the old Dakota County boat launch adjacent to the Dakota County Park Beach to assist Lake Byllesby homeowners in removing their boats. The county will have a boat available to tow boats to the launch if needed.

If assistance is requested, call the Dakota County Communications Center at (651) 322-2323 to make arrangements.

The winter water elevation could potentially remain in effect until spring, 2011, pending further direction from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

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