STATE PARKS READY FOR RELAXING LABOR DAY WEEKEND

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Only three parks are affected by blue-green algae; all state parks and state fishing lakes ready for busy holiday weekend

PRATT — Kansas state parks are busy throughout the summer, but three weekends are the most popular — Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3-5, is the only summer holiday remaining this season. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) wants the public to know that despite blue-green algae in two reservoirs and several smaller lakes that may limit water recreation, all state parks will be open Labor Day. Also, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Kansas lakes and parks since all state fishing lakes and most city and county lakes are free of blue-green algae warnings or advisories.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has been checking certain lakes nearly all summer and has issued “advisories” and “warnings” when harmful levels of blue-green algae have been detected. Based on KDHE’s findings, the Army Corps of Engineers and KDWPT have closed Milford Reservoir near Junction City, to all water use (including fishing from the bank) because of a serious health risk. However, land-based opportunities abound at the lake and Milford State Park will be open for business Labor Day weekend. While the River Pond below the dam in Tuttle Creek State Park is under a warning, boating and fishing are allowed. Tuttle Creek Reservoir is not under any warning or advisory and is open to all activities.

And, although Cheney Reservoir west of Wichita is under an Advisory, Cheney State Park is open for business. The advisory at Cheney Reservoir means harmful blue-green algae have been detected and a hazardous condition may exist, but water activities such as boating and fishing are allowed. However, direct contact with the water (wading, swimming) is strongly discouraged for people and pets.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Labor Day weekend is one of the best times of the year to visit a park or lake. The weather is still warm, and the water feels great. For those who would rather stay dry (or are visiting Milford State Park), volleyball, disc golf, trail hiking, camping, watching wildlife in the park or a nearby wildlife area, or simply sitting around a campfire and enjoying the outdoors are relaxation enough after a hard week’s work. It’s also a welcome breather before school gets back in full swing.

Blue-green algae conditions may change before the holiday so people should stay alert for updates. For more information on blue-green algae, including current warnings and advisories, visit the KDHE website, http://www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm or contact Jonathan Larance at785-291-3684. For more information about Kansas state parks, click the “State Parks” icon at the top of the KDWPT website, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us. For more information about Kansas state fishing lakes and other fishing locations, click on the “Fishing” icon on the KDWPT website.

CABINS OFFER LAKE-HOUSE EXPERIENCE

State parks, some wildlife areas, offer comfortable alternative to roughing it

PRATT — Looking for a special summer Kansas state park or more remote area experience? Rental cabins are available throughout the year at 19 Kansas state parks, four state fishing lakes, and one wildlife area. Some cabins are rustic while others feature many of the comforts of home and all enhance the pleasure of parks and lakes across the state.

Anglers, hikers, birdwatchers, boaters, and other outdoor enthusiasts can choose from a variety of cabins, ranging from primitive to modern. (Cabins also are popular with hunters in winter.) Scenic surroundings and economical fees make these enticing reprieves from the hustle and bustle of daily life even more appealing.

Courtesy KDWP

Some cabins feature amenities such as full bathroom with shower; kitchen with microwave, refrigerator, and cook-top stove; beds for as many as nine people; screened-in porch; fire ring; and barbecue grill. All cabins have heating and air conditioning, table and chairs, basic pots and pans, and table service for four are also offered at many cabins, making them all-season getaways. Cabins without water or full bathrooms are located near park shower houses.

Reservations are required, and cabins are in high demand, so renters are encouraged to call or go online well in advance of a planned trip to make sure a cabin is available. Some are handicapped-accessible. For a list of all state park cabins, go to the KDWP website, www.kdwp.state.ks.us. Click "State Parks," then "Locations With Cabins." To reserve a cabin, go online to reserve.ksoutdoors.com. Prices vary depending on location, timing, and amenities. Weekly and monthly rates are available.

It’s easy and economical to plan a home-state vacation or weekend getaway with the comforts of home. And enjoy all the outdoor recreational opportunities of one of many fine Kansas state parks, or an even more remote location at a state fishing lake or wildlife area.

LOVEWELL STATE PARK KIDS FISHING DERBY JUNE 5

Event coincides with statewide Free Fishing Days, June 4-5; $200 bond prize at stake
WEBBER — Free Fishing Days for the state of Kansas are set for Saturday and Sunday, June 4-5. Fishing licenses are not required to fish any Kansas waters for these two days, and Lovewell State Park is taking advantage of this opportunity to conduct their annual Kids Fishing Derby. (Vehicle and camping permits are still required at Lovewell and all Kansas state parks on these days.)

The popular Kids Fishing Derby is set for Sunday, June 5. Lovewell State Park and Wildlife Area staff and many area businesses are sponsoring the event. Participants will have the opportunity to win the $200 Don Cart Memorial Savings Bond. The family of Don Cart, former Concordia resident and avid Lovewell area outdoorsman who passed away several years ago, has donated this bond.

Registration is from 8 a.m. to noon at the state park office, with early registration prizes awarded to the first 50 kids who register. Weigh-in is set for 3 p.m. at the marina parking lot.

Anglers will be divided into two age brackets: 7 and younger and 8 through 15. Prizes will be awarded for the most pounds of fish and biggest fish in each of the age brackets, plus all participants present at the weigh-in are eligible for prizes drawn at random. Area businesses and individuals have donated more than $1,000 in prizes and gift certificates for the event.

For more information, phone the Lovewell State Park Office at 785-753-4971.