New Dredge Machine Being Installed At Rocky Fork State Park

Presented By Hometown-Motors, Inc.

(Hillsboro) — A new, 90-thousand-pound tool has arrived at Rocky Fork State Park to help keep the lake safe for boaters, paddlers, and swimmers.  The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will unload the new dredge machine on August 5, 2021.

“From boating to water skiing, Rocky Fork Lake provides endless water recreation for visitors, no matter what their interest,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said.  “By upgrading the equipment and taking care of this body of water, we are ensuring that it will remain beautiful, welcoming, and safe for years to come.”

Dredging is the removal of sediment that has accumulated on the bottom of a lake.  It helps maintain safe, navigable conditions for boaters. Removing sediment also helps balance nutrient levels, creating a healthier body of water for fishing, swimming, and other water sports. 

“This machine will help us more efficiently care for this beautiful lake,” said ODNR Dredge Program Administrator Thomas Grabow.  “We want to make sure boats can pass through the lake’s narrow channels, and this upgrade will help us do that.”

The new machine was driven approximately 900 miles, from Louisiana to Hillsboro, Ohio.  It was refurbished to replace the 58-year-old model currently in use.

Visitors are welcome to stop by during regular park hours of operation (dawn to dusk) to see the dredge unloaded by crane, assembled, and released into the lake. However, all observation must take place from a parking lot near the campground boat ramp (9800 North Shore Drive), where it is safe to do so.

The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education, and conservation of Ohio’s 75 state parks and waterways.