BOONE, Iowa—The Ledges State Park has been closed to campers and visitors during August so the roads and parking lots could be resurfaced. But while that work is going on, Park Manager Andy Bartlett says other projects have continued, including work by summer staff.
A major project this year has been the Oak Woods Shelter which had been damaged by a falling tree and suffered the ailments for Iowa weather on wood structures. The shelter project was one that took time to put together and is nearing completion.
Inside of the Oak Woods Shelter.
Shingles made their way onto the building this week.
Bartlett says routine work needed to be completed, especially mowing. Seasonal staff was also busy with other projects that people will see when the park reopens.
Our summer staff has been grinding old paint in one of the campground shower buildings. We’re hoping to have some new paint on the walls by the end of this week!
This bridge along the Prairie Trails was overgrown and starting to decay. First the overgrowth was cleared back.
Next the old bridge was removed, the active erosion under the bridge was stabilized, and a new bridge was constructed. The project should be wrapped up early this week.
Bartlett said that summer staff also spent time working in other parks.
Our team also bounced around the district for the last two weeks painting parking lot lines at Big Creek, Pine Lake, Red Haw, Honey Creek, and Walnut Woods State Parks.
Bartlett says a reopening event is currently planned for September 5th. More details are expected within the week.
(contributed information and photos, IA DNR)
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