The New York Power Authority (NYPA) today (May 22) announced the lower and upper reservoirs at the Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Project (B-G) will reopen for the recreational boating season on Saturday, May 23.
The Mine Kill State Park boat launch, which provides access to the lower reservoir, has been fully rehabilitated. Upgrades include designated eagle-watching areas and a new kayak storage building that is scheduled to open later this summer.Additionally, the public fishing access area along the Schoharie Creek below the lower reservoir is open for the season. NYPA stocks the upper and lower reservoir annually with brook and brown trout in the spring, and walleye in the late summer.
Use of the upper reservoir is limited to rowboats, canoes and kayaks only with or without electric-trolling motors. Gasoline-powered engines and sailboats are prohibited on the upper reservoir. Recreational craft, including rowboats or canoes, with or without-electric trolling motors and boats with gas-powered may be used in the lower reservoir.
For access to the upper reservoir, boaters must stop at the south gate on Valenti Road no earlier than 7 a.m. on the day they plan to visit. All boats must be off the water by 5 p.m., and shoreline fishing closes at dusk. NYPA B-G Security will conduct daily inspections of the reservoir.
For access to the lower reservoir, boaters are required to stop at Mine Kill State Park's toll booth or the park office on the day you intend to use the lower reservoir. Additionally, all boats are required to use the park's hot water boat wash station upon entering and exiting the lower reservoir.
Boating will be permitted from 7:30 a.m., until the park closes, however all boats must be off the reservoir one hour before the park closes. The park will remain open until dusk.
The reservoirs may be closed to boating at any time at the Power Authority's discretion.
Please visit the New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation webpage on tips for boating safety.
About NYPA
The New York Power Authority is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Substack.
