For Immediate Release

Date: April 2, 2004

Editor's Note: We invite you to attend this dedication. We will meet at the Port of Gold Beach boat ramp at 1 p.m. for the dedication. Please call for additional information.

Updated Port of Gold Beach Boat Ramp Opens to Boaters

On Wednesday, April 14, the golden ribbon across the newly completed Port of Gold Beach boat ramp will fall, officially opening the three-lane concrete ramp to the legions of anglers who launch their boats there much of the year.

The Oregon State Marine Board, Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife and Port of Gold Beach will join to cut the ribbon at 1 p.m. The project completes the renovation of the Port of Gold Beach boating access facility near the mouth of the Rogue River.

The new boat ramp includes new boarding floats, providing easy access to the large parking area completed several years ago. The boat ramp construction cost was $249,400, with the Marine Board providing $62,450 in state match to the $157,350 in federal Sport Fish Restoration funds administered by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Remaining funds came from the Port of Gold Beach and the Department of Land Conservation and Development who administers the federal Coastal Zone Management Act grants.

The improvements are the product of a close partnership between the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Oregon State Marine Board, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Port of Gold Beach. "This facility will serve recreational boaters for decades to come," says ODFW Director Lindsay Ball. "It will provide access to prime chinook and coho fishing opportunity, as well as access to the marine resources of the Pacific Ocean and the scenic treasures of the Rogue River."

Marine Board Director Paul Donheffner said the upgrade will not only serve boaters but the local community. "This access point provides important economic benefits to businesses in Gold Beach and surrounding areas," said Donheffner. "This waterway is an incredible resource, and access points like these make them convenient and safe to enjoy."

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