Dock fishing returns to Brantley Lake State Park

Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
Published: 29 April 2024 29 April 2024

A donation from the Great Outdoors Fund and Occidental revived this popular attraction

CARLSBAD, NM – Calling all anglers! New Mexico State Parks is excited to announce the return of a floating fishing dock to Brantley Lake State Park, our southernmost lake and outdoor recreation area in Eddy County, New Mexico. New Mexico State Parks staff and volunteers with non-profit The Great Outdoors Fund and Occidental descended on the park to install a new walkway and floating fishing dock at the Seven Rivers Boat Ramp. 

“We are thrilled to once again offer anglers a safe and accessible platform to enjoy one of their favorite pastimes at Brantley Lake State Park,” said Toby Velasquez, Director of the New Mexico State Parks Division. "This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between public and private entities to enhance recreational opportunities for our communities."

The announcement comes five years after the closure of another fishing dock that became unsafe. The donation to purchase and fund construction of the dock was made possible through a collaboration between The Great Outdoors Fund and Occidental.

“Fishing is one of our top activities at Brantley Lake State Park and the dock is very popular with the local community and visitors,” said James Chapler, Brantley Lake State Park Superintendent. “It was a difficult decision to close the prior dock, but it was unsafe, which is why we were delighted when The Great Outdoors Fund approached us with the idea of facilitating a generous donation to get a new dock. Now everyone can enjoy it for years to come.”

The Great Outdoors Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding equitable access to the outdoors and improving recreation opportunities through public-private partnerships. Its mission is to ensure people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can experience and enjoy nature. Occidental is one of the largest petroleum companies in the Permian Basin.

"The Great Outdoors Fund is committed to promoting equitable access to our public lands and waters, ensuring that people of all ages and abilities can connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors," saidLori McCullough, Founder and CEO the Great Outdoors Fund. "And it's unique public-private partnerships like we've developed with Occidental that make that possible. Everyone from the local community to the people who visit the park will benefit." 

“We take great pride in contributing to the enrichment of recreational opportunities at Brantley Lake, which underscores Occidental’s commitment to Carlsbad and its vibrant community. We are one of the largest energy producers in the state, with many of our employees calling New Mexico home,” saidTom Janiszewski, Vice President of Land, Regulatory, Government Relations and Corporate Affairs for Occidental. “The park enhancement project is something the community will be able to enjoy for years to come, and it’s one of the many projects we’re looking forward to supporting this year.”

The new floating dock and ramp leading to it comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The project also includes a new kiosk displaying water safety information near the boat ramp. 

Brantley Lake State Park, located approximately 15 miles north of Carlsbad, offers numerous recreational opportunities, including catch-and-release fishing, camping, boating, kayaking, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. For more information, visit the New Mexico State Parks website at emnrd.nm.gov  and click ‘Find a Park.’ Reserve your camping spot up to six months in advance today at ReserveAmerica.com .

New Mexico State Parks is a Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department. Our mission is to protect and enhance natural and cultural resources, provide first-class recreational and education facilities and opportunities, and promote public safety to benefit and enrich the lives of visitors.

New Mexico State Parks, The Great Outdoors Fund, and Occidental come together to bring dock fishing back to Brantley Lake State Park, Eddy County, Carlsbad. Photo: The Great Outdoors Fund.

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