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Boat ramp closed
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Some Bryan County residents may be forced to adjust their game plan for Memorial Day weekend. The Demeries Creek boat ramp has been temporary closed for repairs, so those planning to hit the water are advised to use alternate ramps.

Officials with the county and with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources closed the ramp Wednesday, citing hazardous conditions created by wear and tear over the last thirty-plus years. The ramp is expected to remain closed for 60 to 90 days while repairs are made to the structure.

"We can’t afford to have someone put their boat in it and get stuck," said Doug Haymans with the DNR. "I just hate that it’s during this time of year."

During the emergency closure of the Demeries Creek Boat Ramp, anglers are encouraged to use the Fort McAllister or Redbird Creek ramps to access the Ogeechee River. Sunbury Ramp in Liberty County will give anglers access to the Medway River.

Haymans said the ramp was built in sections. He explained that over time, the underside of the ramp has been washed out, causing one of the 25 foot sections to drop down 32 inches.

"We knew the ramp needed some attention and had it in our budget to renovate it in December of 2009," Haymans said.

He said the repairs will be an $80,000 joint project between the DNR and the county, and a brand new ramp should be up within 90 days. This one will be a solid slab as opposed to being built in sections.

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