JOHNSTON, Iowa – High waters and construction around the Sycamore Boat Ramp near the I-80 bridge is forcing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to close the ramp until construction is complete.
The Sycamore Boat Ramp is located near where Beaver Creek flows into the Des Moines River. A barrier is now in place at the boat ramp to prevent launching of boats or any other vessels, as well as kayaks and canoes. Currently, the high water levels and the construction equipment in the area on the river are causing hidden and dangerous undercurrents, as well as very fast currents at the surface.
Anyone boating or paddling through this area is encouraged to use extreme caution or avoid the area all together.
The boat ramp will be closed until the construction is complete.
On Saturday, May 23, the currents in that same area caused a woman to be thrown from her kayak causing minor lacerations to her head. Two nearby anglers were able to pull the woman from the river. She was treated and released at the scene by the Des Moines Fire Department. The DNR responded to the incident and will continue to investigate.