Windstorm damage forces Corps to close John Day recreation sites

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has closed some facilities at three John Day Lock & Dam recreation sites due to a severe storm that caused extensive damage Saturday.  

Winds between 40-50 mph and gusts around 70 mph toppled trees and damaged park facilities.

The sites impacted are:
LePage Park: Day-use park and restroom closed; boat ramp is open.
Roosevelt Park: Day-use park and restroom closed; boat ramp is open.
Plymouth Park: All park facilities closed including boat ramp.

“The health and safety of our guests and staff is our top priority, so until we can assess the damage and determine next steps, these facilities will remain closed.” said Nick Racine, Portland District natural resource specialist.

“In addition, our services are still limited due to COVID-19. Please come prepared by bringing your own supplies such as hand sanitizer and water and plan to pack all trash back home with you.”

Visitors must comply with all park and vehicle rules and recreate responsibly by following safety guidelines to lessen the spread of COVID-19.

When recreating, the Corps asks the public to comply with the following guidelines:
• Anyone exhibiting any cold or flu-like symptoms shall not participate in outdoor recreation activities.
• We may need to close any public park, land, trail or boat ramp if there is reason to believe an unsafe condition exists or social distancing practices are not being adhered to.
• People must recreate locally: Do not travel farther than necessary and do not stay overnight to recreate.
• Parking may be limited, but recreation users must park in designated spots.
• Limit your recreation partners to only those who live within your household unit.
• Always maintain a minimum six-foot social distance from other people in all areas including trailhead and boat ramp locations.
• Utilize facial coverings in any situation where social distancing is not possible.
• Do not gather in groups.
• Be considerate of other park visitors. Public restrooms are only as clean as the last user. Where restrooms are available, they may not have hand sanitizing stations. Bring your own personal protective supplies including hand sanitizer, soap, water, face mask, disinfectant wipes, etc.
• Bring your own food and supplies when possible to help protect others in your community. 
• Wear a personal floatation device (life vest) if you are recreating on the water. At this time, Corps life jacket loaner stations are not available in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Visit www.nwp.usace.army.mil/recreation-status to see the current list of Corps recreation opportunities.

Stay up-to-date with Portland District by visiting our website at: www.nwp.usace.army.mil. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, @PortlandCorps.