The Red Rock Hydroelectric Project is nearing the end of its physical construction phase and the North Tailwater Recreation area restoration is underway. The final work on the intake structure’s approach channel is in full swing and crews recently began restoring the downstream earthen dam embankment. Many of the temporary construction buildings and offices located on the project’s property also are starting to disappear.

“We realize that the closure causes an inconvenience for people wanting to enjoy the facilities, but the safety of the public as well as construction workers is a primary concern for everyone involved in the project,” said MRES Vice President of Member Services and Communications Joni Livingston. “We want to thank the citizens of Marion County and the Pella community for their broad support of RRHP and for their incredible patience since this project first began construction in 2014.”

Throughout the duration of the project, Missouri River Energy Services–the supervising organization and operator of the Red Rock Hydroelectric Project has taken several measures to enhance recreation in the Red Rock Dam area, including the construction of a 7,000-foot extension of the Volksweg Bike Trail to extend the trail from the Fifield Recreation Area to the Robert’s Creek Trailhead. Other features added to the area include picnic shelters, a playground, a fish-cleaning station, restrooms, parking facilities, and water fountains.

Missouri River Energy Services reminds outdoor enthusiasts that the North Tailwater Recreation area and a section of the Volksweg bike path remain closed to the public until the hydroelectric power plant opens for commercial operation. The closures ensure the safety of the public and workers still on site.

The up-to-date status of Lake Red Rock Recreation facilities can be found at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Red Rock website at https://www.mvr.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Lake-Red-Rock/.

Once fully operational later this year, the Red Rock Hydroelectric Project will be able to generate enough power equivalent to the electrical needs for all the homes in Marion County.