Burleigh County Considering Ramp Plans | Video

Joel Porter | 7/2/2012

More boats are backing into the Missouri River every day in and around Bismarck. However, the Kimball Bottoms ramp south of Bismarck remains a hazard. The parking lot was severely undercut by high water last year. Although the ramp is open, Burleigh County commissioners are looking at a long-term solution.

Engineers suggest installing another ramp about 150 feet downstream. They say that method would cost about $284,000, which would be split between the county and the Game and Fish Department.

"And we just happen to be outside of a curve here. And that river wants to move east and without a major, major riprap project, I don`t think we can stop it," says Scott Schneider from Apex Engineering.

Engineers also suggest laying down more riprap to prevent erosion. The new ramp would likely not be finished until next year.

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