Santa Rosa Lake State Park welcoming boaters; water restored to Storrie Lake State Park

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Two lakes at state parks are welcoming visitors. One had its water restored, and the other reopened its boat ramp.

Santa Rosa Lake State Park
The New Mexico State Parks Division is reopening the boat ramp at Santa Rosa Lake State Park.

On May 16, it was announced that 25,250 acre-feet would be block released from the lake to an irrigation district. Recent rainfall has boosted water levels, however.

“The release reduced lake levels down to approximately two percent, which was much too low for safe boating, so we closed the boat ramp until lake levels recovered,” Director Toby Velasquez stated. “While the lake level has risen by about 10 percent, we encourage boaters and paddlers to keep a close eye out for debris in the lake that may have come in from recent heavy rains. Santa Rosa Lake is a very popular recreation area and we’re happy that visitors can enjoy it, but we also want them to do it safely.”

The Carlsbad Irrigation District might conduct another release in August if more rain comes.

Storrie Lake State Park
As Las Vegas, New Mexico, experienced issues with its water supply, officials restricted water use at the Storrie Lake State Park.

In June, ash and debris entered the city’s drinking reservoir and caused officials to urge rationing water. The water at the park was shut off to help conserve the supply.

“Storrie Lake State Park is connected to the city water system, and we felt it was best to shut our water off to help ease the burden on the system and preserve what little water was available to our community,” said Toby Velasquez, Director. “We’re not just another business. We have been a part of the Las Vegas community for 64 years, and we’re committed to supporting our community and neighbors during this time of adversity.”

Now, water has returned to the park.

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