5/19/2011
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. – High water in the Ohio River postponed the scheduled May 1 opening of Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park to May 10, and now, just over a week later, more high water has forced another temporary closing.
“Mother Nature is really angry this spring,” according to Blennerhassett Island Supt. Donna Smith. “Even though the rains may not be heavy in Parkersburg, the Ohio River is affected by its tributaries. Our visitor access to the island and the Blennerhassett Mansion is via the sternwheeler Island Belle. We can only run the sternwheeler when the river is 24.6 feet or less and it’s not expected to get below that level for the next few days."
Ohio River levels predicted are: May 19 (Thursday) 27.9; May 20 (Friday) 29.8; May 21 (Saturday) 28.8 - all water levels that are above safe transport guidelines. For the next few days and anytime during periods of high water, visitors are encouraged to call 304-420-4800 to confirm hours that the island is open.
Park management has contacted groups with visits scheduled as well as North Bend State Park and guest that have reserved the “Voyage” Package. The Voyage Package includes accommodations at North Bend State Park and passes to activities and tours at Blennerhassett Island and the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History. Park officials have expressed their appreciation to visitors for their understanding.
The Island Belle Sternwheeler departs for Blennerhassett Island from Civitan Park in Belpre, Ohio. The traditional departure point for the island was Point Park in Parkersburg, but riverfront is closed for development and repair. The Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History remains open. It is located on the corner of Juliana Street in downtown Parkersburg.
To learn and know river levels at points in West Virginia and other states, visit
www.water.weather.gov. For specific areas, click Advanced Hydrologic Prediction and then the town, such as Parkersburg, to learn predicted levels. This site is maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the US Department of Commerce.
Contact Information
Donna Smith, Supt.; Miles Evenson, Asst. Supt. or Brad Reed, District Administrator
304-420-4800 or 304-558-2764
blennerhassettislandsp@wv.gov or
dnr.parks@wv.gov