For nearly half a century, more than ninety percent of the overnight sites at this federal recreation lake have been reserved for private use. The seven concession contracts under which those private arrangements were established are finally expiring. Since 2000 the Bureau of Reclamation has been engaged in a process to decide the recreational future of the Lake.
On June 6, 2006, the Bureau of Reclamation released the Record of Decision on redeveloping Lake Berryessa.
Private vacation sites will be replaced with facilities for the public.
WHAT WILL THE NEW RECREATION AREA HAVE?
Concession areas
Accommodations for the public will include cabins and cottages, possibly motels/hotels/lodges, tent and RV camping, restaurants, retail outlets, boat launch ramps, marinas and houseboat rentals.
Recreational facilities
The most eagerly awaited proposal is the development of a 150 mile shoreline trail with opportunities for hikers, bikers and equestrians. Reclamation has also decided to create two no-motor zones in Steele Canyon Cove and between the islands and the two publc parks. The free public boat launch ramp at Capell Cove will remain.
In addition to the two public parks - Oak Shores and Smittle Creek - and the day use areas at Pope Creek, the North Shore, Markley Cove and Olive Orchard, two new public day use areas will be created at Eticuera and Steele Canyon Cove with trail heads, parking, restrooms and places to launch kayaks.
Joint press release on the Record of Decision (BT&C, Napa Sierra Club, BRBNA and Tuleyome) Bureau of Reclamation press release
BT&C is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization
Berryessa Trails and Conservation
www.berryessatrails.org
707.966.5211
Last updated 06/25/06
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