Greenbelt Lake open for ‘day use’ only

New restrictions are in place this week for people visiting Greenbelt Lake after the reservoir reopened to a large crowd last weekend.

Greenbelt Water Authority General Manager Bobbie Kidd said the lake was very busy Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with perhaps as many as 1,500 people there on Saturday.

With the COVID-19 virus still active in the area, Donley County Judge John Howard, MD, asked the lake to observe Gov. Greg Abbott’s Executive Order GA-18 and to follow the lead of state parks, which are operating only from dawn to dusk and with no overnight camping.

Lake officials say they have been following the governor’s orders and also say that even though the lake is private property, they are complying with the judge’s request.

“We feel it is in the best interest of Donley County,” the water authority said in a statement.

As of now, there is only “day use” of the lake until further notice. No groups of more than five are allowed, and social distancing must still be practiced.

No overnight camping is permitted at Greenbelt. Customers can still shop, three at a time, in the Marina for bait, tackle, groceries, ice, and permits. Lake officials have been and will continue to sanitize touchable surfaces in the store frequently.

“If you are sick (with anything), if you have been directly exposed and tested for COVID-19 and are awaiting test results or you are positive for COVID-19 and are quarantined for either reason, don’t come to the lake,” the water authority’s statement said. “Help us help everyone stay healthy.”

Kidd said the lake intends to limit attendance this weekend to 500 people at each of the north and south entrances and admission will be on a first come, first served basis.

Greenbelt is also telling its licensed spaces holders that only people who live in their households are permitted in those spaces. No group cookouts or gatherings or going to other trailers will be allowed, and the water authority says licensees who violate that order may lose their lease.

Click here for the complete text of Greenbelt’s order.