Floating dock proves popular at Morgan Lake

And for good reason.

The T-shaped floating dock is extensive and expansive at 30 by 30 feet. It also has a plastic

lip-resistant surface and is sturdy even when Morgan Lake’s waters are choppy. The reason is the dock’s underside design creates a cupping effect between air pockets on the water surface and the structure.

“It is designed not to rock,’’ Touhey said.

The dock was installed next to the gravel boat ramp to make it convenient for people to put in their crafts. People can now put their crafts in first while leaving their gear on the dock. They then can move their craft over to the dock, tie it up and easily put their gear in, Touhey said.

The dock also allows boaters to come in and take breaks on land without having to pull their craft to shore.

Crafts used at Morgan Lake include pontoon boats, kayaks, rowboats and canoes. No motorized boats are allowed.

The floating dock was purchased and installed with funds from a $67,556 grant the city parks division received from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Restoration and Enhancement program. Money in the program’s fund comes from state fishing license fees.

The ODFW’s Restoration and Enhancement Board approved funding for the dock because it will enhance fishing opportunities at Morgan Lake. Touhey credits Scott Patterson of

La Grande, hatchery coordinator for the ODFW’s Northeast Region, with playing a major role in helping the city receive the $67,556 grant.

“It was so nice to have someone from the local (ODFW) office walk us through the (grant application) process,’’ Touhey said.

Money from the Restoration and Enhancement grant is also being used to install four fishing platforms at Morgan Lake. The platforms will extend about 12 feet out into the water. The platforms will make it easier for people to fish at Morgan Lake and will also protect the shore from the wear and tear of anglers. Touhey explained that the platforms will result in fewer anglers fishing from shore, reducing soil erosion and the destruction of vegetation.

Construction of the platforms has started and may be complete before winter arrives.

Should winter conditions hit early the platforms will be completed in the spring, Touhey said.

Money from the Restoration and Enhancement grant will also will be used to build a new restroom on the north side of Morgan Lake. The new restroom will replace two old ones near the same site.

Fishing season at Morgan Lake is open through Oct. 31.