Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release : October 4, 2006

Hoy Murphy, Public Information Officer (304) 558-3381 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Curtis Taylor , Wildlife Resources Section Chief (304) 558-2771 wildlife@wvdnr.gov

Bear Lake Angler Access Improvements

The Division of Natural Resources has completed improvements to Bear Lake in Ohio County, making the lake accessible to physically challenged anglers, according to DNR Director Frank Jezioro. An asphalt walkway approximately 1,100 feet long and 8 feet wide was constructed. Two fishing jetties to allow anglers access to deeper water also were built. The parking area was paved with asphalt and parking spaces were designated for the physically challenged. Improvements were also made to the boat launching ramp, and curbs and guard posts were installed.

The improvements were a result of a recommendation from the DNR Physically Challenged Advisory Board. Members of the Board assisted in the design and layout of the new facilities to make them accessible to individuals with physical disabilities.

"Area anglers owe a special thanks to the Physically Challenged Advisory Board for their support of this project” said DNR Director Frank Jezioro. “These improvements not only provide physically challenged anglers access to the lake, but also will allow all users, especially children, better access to the lake and make their fishing experience more enjoyable." He added that the fishing jetties and walkway will also allow physically challenged hunters the opportunity to hunt waterfowl on the lake.

DNR officials extend thanks to a local contractor, Shawn O'Brien of O'Brien's Rent-All, for his assistance on the construction. O'Brien donated the use of a dozer for site preparation of the improvements.

The total cost of the improvements was approximately $88,000. Funding for this project came from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses, including the conservation stamp.

Bear Lake is located on the Bear Rocks Lake Wildlife Management Area in Ohio County. Bear Lake is one of four lakes located on the area. These lakes offer good fishing for bass, bluegills and catfish. DNR Wildlife Resources Section personnel stock the lakes with trout in the spring. The lakes are located three miles northeast of Dallas Pike in Ohio County. They are accessible from I-70 by using the Dallas Pike exit, north to county Route 41/3, then county routes 39/4 to 41/6