The skies were clear on Monday, April 15 but heavy rains and downstream flooding last week has forced the scheduled opening of Sutton Lake Marina to be delayed one week.
The Corps of Engineers released the following statement Saturday, “In order to reduce water levels along the Ohio River, Sutton Dam will be reducing the outflow to minimum flow throughout the evening. Lake level will be rising. Boaters should be aware of floating and submerged objects. GRF campground will be closing until further notice.”
SLM posted simular information “Opening day for docking boats at Sutton Lake Marina has been to Monday, April 22, due to inclement weather. The Army Corps of Engineers will be reducing the output, and the lake levels are rising to flood stage.”
According to Erica Whitney, Sutton Lake Marina Manager, safety is the prime concern. “We deal with flooding during the boating season but the heavy rains that caused extensive damage throughout our region, particularly south of us, has come at a crucial time. Our crews were in the process of reassembling the docks and getting the facility ready to open. The inclement weather and flooding delayed that process. In conjunction with the Corps, we made the conscious decision that we would not be able to maintain a safe environment for our boaters and guests on April 15th.
“While we deeply regret the inconvenience, we hope our boaters and guest understand that their safety is our first consideration,” Whitney said.
She added that the rainy weather also presented serious problems regarding the Marina staff’s safety in their preparations for opening day. Barring any additional bad weather, the facility will begin allowing slip holders to bring their boats to the marina on Monday, April 22nd.
