Yesterday several key stakeholders were invited to meet with Loudoun Water and NOVA Parks to discuss the temporary opening of Beaverdam Creek Reservoir. We met at the Mt. Hope road location, which will serve as the only public access location for now. The reservoir is quickly filling back up, though it is not up to its normal level yet. Some good news was shared with us. First, the reservoir will be opening a few days early, Saturday the 30th of May. Second, the rowers have been relocated to their own location on Alford Rd, as has all their equipment. The parking situation at Mt. Hope is greatly improved. The rowing team however did take their dock. The reservoir looks great, several times we heard fish jumping out of the water and DGIF has said the the fish population looks good.
With the opening, Loudoun Water has some concerns. First is that we stay away from the dam area, both on the water and on foot. Second is that we do not park on the church side of Mt. Hope Rd. The church has been helpful to us, please respect the parking situation. If the lot is full, you can park down the road at the NOVA parks lot. Last they ask you respect the land and water. If you see someone doing something they should not be doing, please call the Loudoun Sheriff’s dept. Let’s not let a few rotten apples spoil the bunch. Loudoun Water is also paying for the Sheriff’s dept to do additional patrols. Ads will be run is Leesburg/Ashburn Today and the Loudoun Times with opening details.
Chris Pauley’s team from the Fairfax location of NOVA Parks (NVRPA) is managing the recreational side of the facility. Staff will be visiting the facility on a regular basis as well as be onsite during weekends. The park will be run just like the various other NVRPA launch points in the area (Algonkian/Occoquan) and as such a $4 launch fee will be assessed or you can purchase a yearly “All Park” pass for $70 at the NVRPA site. The gates will be opened at dawn and closed at dusk. Only car-top boats can be launched at Beaverdam. There is no boat ramp or room for trailer parking. Sunfish or small sailboats are fine as long as they don’t need a trailer. Stand up paddling and sailboards are fine as well. Swimming is not allowed. NOVA Parks worked hard to convince LW that SUPs were not there to swim! The trails are available only for walking/hiking. No MTB at this time.
To say we’re excited that NOVA Parks is running the facility is an understatement. They are a great bunch of people that get parks and watersports. See you out on the water!
* If you see someone breaking the rules, call the Sheriff
* Do not park on the church side of Mt. Hope
* Stay away from the dam!
* Enjoy the park, keep it beautiful.
