(KLZA) Recent rains have forced the closure of a section of the 22-mile Steamboat Trace trail that parallels the Missouri River is again suffering from flood damage. The affected section is from near the Cooper Nuclear Station south of Brownville north to the Honey Creek bridge, a distance of approximately seven miles. This time the Missouri River is not the direct cause of the closure but instead Honey Creek has extended itself out onto the trail surface. Nemaha NRD officials have posted signs and barriers to prohibit visitors from accessing the closed section. 

Updates on the status of the trail will be made available on the NRD’s website  www.nemahanrd.org, or contact the office at (402) 335-3325. After hours a recorded message will provide updates. 

The recent heavy rains have filled the lakes at Kirkman’s Cove and Iron Horse Trail Lake to capacity and beyond. The Nemaha Natural Resources District officials report that water levels are easily eight feet above permanent pool limits resulting in an excess of water everywhere. 

Because of the high water levels, unseen hazards may exist in the lakes that would pose a danger to boaters. Therefore, boating access has been closed at both parks until further notice.

Hazards that are undetectable at Iron Horse may include grills, picnic tables, the wooden, handicapped accessible fishing pier, and other jetties that were constructed when the lake was renovated a couple of years ago. Similar hazards exist at Kirkman’s Cove. Signs and barriers have been placed at both parks and will remain until water levels retreat to safe levels.

The Nemaha NRD appreciates everyone’s cooperation and understanding during the closures. Efforts will be made to get the parks cleaned up and returned to normal once the waters recede. If you have questions, contact the NRD in Tecumseh at 402-335-3325.