Forest Service Pulls Pyramid Lake's Permit
1/27/2004
Pearl Obispo [Signal Staff Writer]
Pyramid Lake Recreation Area will close today and remain closed for approximately four months, officials said — but not because of state budget problems.
Officials said the lakeÂ’s operator, Pyramid Enterprises Inc., failed to make payments to the U.S. Forest Service as called for in its permit.
The closure includes Los Alamos Campground, Emigrant Landing, Vaquero Day Use Area and boat ramp. Marina services such as boat rentals, boat storage, food services and bait sales will be suspended indefinitely. Owners of boats docked in the area will need to remove them by Feb. 29.
“The closure is due specifically because of (Pyramid Enterprises’) non-payment of fees,” said Kathy Petersen, spokeswoman for the Forest Service. “The closure will be in effect up to 120 days because that’s how long the Forest Service to arrange for other operational staffing.”
However, Petersen said she could not elaborate on the details for privacy reasons.
The Forest Service allows concessionaires to manage recreation sites on certain federally owned property. Officials said the arrangement provides business opportunities and reduces operational and maintenance costs for the government.
Forest Supervisor Jody Noiron apologized for any inconvenience to the public.
“We realize this is a popular area, and we are going to try and reopen the facility as soon as we can,” Noiron said in a statement.
District Ranger Cid Morgan said starting today, Pyramid Enterprises will no longer be involved with the lake.
“As of (today), the lake will be closed up to 120 days,” she said. “At least, that’s what how long we’re thinking it will take for us to get the facility up and running.”
The Forest Service is also in the of soliciting a new vendor for the facility.
Officials advised lake visitors to find alternate facilities such as Lake Piru and Castaic Lake during the temporary closure. Both lakes are available for fishing and boating, although Castaic will be closed for all operations except boating after Feb. 1.
For more information, contact the Forest Service at (626) 821-6700 or (661) 296-9710, or visit www.fs.fed.us.r5.angeles. Owners of boats docked at Pyramid should contact Theresa Orr at (661) 296-9710.