RIVERDALE, N.D. - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Omaha District, Garrison Project launched a new mapping platform available for the visiting public to make it easier to locate ice fishing access points on Lake Sakakawea and Lake Audubon. The project staff previously released the 2018-19 winter access locations, but this mapping tool takes it one step further allowing users access location status around the lakes while on the go.
“Lake visitors, as well as our Friends of Lake Sakakawea partnering organization, mentioned at our spring shoreline access meeting last year the need for making the locations easier for the visiting public to find. One tool that was brought up was an interactive map,” said Nathan Busche, lead natural resources specialist at Garrison. “The message was received loud and clear. Jason Nelson, Garrison natural resource specialist, took the lead on developing this tool.”
“I am excited to see this mapping tool available to the public. This will allow us to provide up-to-date information on access closures to better inform our visitors to assist them in being as safe as possible while braving the cold,” said Nelson.
The map interface allows the public to quickly identify those areas that are open (green circle) or closed (red diamond) before they head out to the lake. As development continues on the online mapping tool, staff will be able to provide even more information to the public. Future plans include mapping summer shoreline access site for bank fishing opportunities.
The best way to view the map is through a mobile device. Visitors can download the free map viewer app “Explorer for ArcGIS” from the Google Play or ITunes App store, then search for “USACE-Lake Sakakawea Ice Access Map”. To view from browser on either a mobile device or laptop/desktop, go to https://arcg.is/jTe0T . A link will also be posted to Garrison Project web page at https://www.nwo.usace.army.mil/Missions/Dam-and-Lake-Projects/Missouri-River-Dams/Garrison/ under “Useful Links”. For optimal viewing, please use Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.
For additional information contact the Garrison Project Office Natural Resources Staff at (701-654-7411).
Release no. 19-008