A new public boat launch has opened on Round Lake, the state Department of Environmental Conservation announced Friday.
The launch on Route 9 in the small Saratoga County village was completed this spring and went into use a couple weeks ago, though there was no public announcement until Friday.
The facility, one of more than 300 DEC boat launches around the state, was funded with a $450,000 NY Works grant.
“Fishing and boating are popular recreation activities that offer an escape from the everyday rigors of life, and this project will provide additional access for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy a great outdoor experience,” said DEC Commissioner Joseph Martens.
The Round Lake boat launch includes parking for nine trailers with vehicles and eleven additional vehicles, a concrete launch ramp, a boarding dock and an information kiosk. A separate launch area for kayaks and canoes is also located on-site.
The launch will address what was a problem for many years with people parking along the shoulder of Route 9 to use the lake, the western shore of which stretches invitingly next to the highway. A few years ago, parking there was banned due to safety concerns.
“This is a terrific improvement to the village of Round Lake and the surrounding area,” said Round Lake Mayor Dixie Lee Sacks. “I know that the fishermen are anxiously awaiting the opening, and I hope the launch is enjoyed by all.”
The town of Malta, meanwhile, has purchased land on the eastern shore of the lake and is in the process of designing a passive-use park that would be open to canoes and kayakers, but not motorized boats. That property lies near an area where herons nest, at the outlet to the Anthony Kill.
“DEC’s new Round Lake boat launch provides access to an amazing and biologically rich connection of ponds, wetlands and waterways,” said Malta town Supervisor Paul Sausville. “The solitude of these waters will be enjoyed by thousands of local residents for decades to come.”
Those using the boat launch will be expected to comply with new state rules that require boats, canoes and kayaks to be cleaned before launching to prevent the spread of invasive species.
State officials said Round Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, northern pike and sunfish.
Categories: -News-
