VERONA, N.Y. — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has started construction of a new boat launch on the Barge Canal at Cove Road in Verona that will enhance recreational opportunities for fishing and boating. The project is funded with $1.6 million from the Environmental Protection Fund and NY Works. The site […]
VERONA, N.Y. — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has started construction of a new boat launch on the Barge Canal at Cove Road in Verona that will enhance recreational opportunities for fishing and boating.
The project is funded with $1.6 million from the Environmental Protection Fund and NY Works.
The site will have several ADA-compliant features along with a two-lane concrete launch ramp with floating docks, canoe/kayak launch, fishing pier, parking area with spaces for 24 cars and 49 car/trailers, accessible parking, and port-a-johns.
The launch provides access to Oneida Lake, which is the state’s most heavily fished inland water and the largest lake lying wholly within the state. Walleye, yellow perch, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish live in the waters along with lake sturgeon, which are protected and cannot be fished.
“DEC continues to invest in new facilities to provide safe and accessible experiences for anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a news release. “Once complete, the Barge Canal Cove Road boat launch site will attract more visitors to enjoy boating and fishing on Oneida Lake and its tributaries, as well as those just looking for a place to experience Oneida County’s natural surroundings.”
The project is the result of several years of advocacy and collaboration on the part of many people and agencies, Oneida Lake Association President John Harmon said. “This launch site fills an important need for our members who want to utilize the great resources and recreational opportunities of Oneida Lake.”
The state’s canal system provides a tremendous recreational resource for boaters, paddlers, and anglers, said New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton. “DEC’s new launch on Cove Road will provide safe access on the east end of Oneida Lake,” he said. “Recreational boating increased on New York’s canals this past season and, through infrastructure upgrades like this new launch, we expect more and more residents and visitors to discover our waterways in 2023.”