CANYON COUNTY, Idaho — Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is opening Lake Lowell for boating during daylight hours on Monday, April 15. Boat ramps, picnic and beach areas will also open.
"We encourage everyone to be safe while visiting the lake," said Edward Owens, project leader for Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. "We are especially grateful to Canyon County Marine Patrol for helping to monitor activity on the lake and make sure it is safe for all."
The Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1909 for wildlife and closes each year, from October through April, to protect wildlife.
"Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is one of the oldest refuges in the country. The lake was originally built as a reservoir to supply water for irrigation. Thousands of people visit the lake each year to swim, boat, hunt, fish and enjoy nature. The refuge is open from sunup to sundown and always free," a news release stated.
There is also a visitor center that's open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
"Refuge visitors can enjoy watching for fishing osprey and bald eagles, surface-nesting western and Clark's grebes, and many other animals that will also be using the lake this summer. To protect wildlife, especially those nesting along and in the water, there are no-wake zones established on the southeast end of the lake, through the narrows and in a 200-yard zone on the south side of the lake," the release stated.
People can find more information on regulations, maps and the refuge at the website.
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