Recapture Reservoir ramp is among 11 boating access projects

Several projects aimed at improving boater access in Utah were recently approved for funding, including reconstructing the boat ramp at Recapture Reservoir near Blanding.

Other projects in southeast Utah include a Westwater Canyon ramp extension, installing stream gauges at the San Rafael River, and the Green River Bridgeport ramp engineering.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources administers the Boating Access Grant Program for Utah, which funds projects like boat ramps, marina parking areas, marina restrooms, docks and other improvements at boating areas. Through a partnership with the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service — through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program — approximately $1.5 million in funding was made available for 11 new boating access improvement projects planned for 2027. An additional $300,000 will help fund the completion of projects previously approved in 2025-26.

“Each year, Utah receives close to $2 million to build and maintain boating access sites,” DWR Assistant Chief of Fisheries Craig Walker said. “This funding is made possible by Utah boaters, who all pay boat registration fees, as well as taxes on boats, boating gear and fuel. With ongoing drought conditions affecting local lakes and reservoirs, these resources serve as a crucial asset for managers working to preserve boating access across Utah.”

"Our lakes and reservoirs offer precious opportunities for families and visitors to connect with and recreate on the water," Ty Hunter, Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation Boating Program Manager, said. "By investing in these grants, we are proactively keeping our boating infrastructure sustainable — it’s responsible stewardship. We are committed to improving access and safety for future generations of boaters."

Another ongoing project being funded through this program is the continued development and testing of a new mobile boater trip-planning app. (The app and associated database will allow boaters to plan trips that meet their expectations and to rate boating access at waterbodies in Utah.)

To suggest potential boating access improvement project ideas, boaters can reach out to the local agency that manages the waterbody or email Walker at craigwalker@utah.gov. Visit the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation website to learn more about the boating access grants.