Creating a giant lake isn’t as easy as it sounds.  Just ask the US Army Corps of Engineers (ACE).  Ever since they made Lake Allatoona, it’s been work, work, work.

Right now ACE and a bunch of other organizations and agencies are getting ready for the upcoming recreation season.

On May 25th, the US Coast Guard will offer free Vessel Safety Checks at Blockhouse Ramp and at marinas around Allatoona.  Public Affairs Officer E. Patrick Robbins said, “The goal is to educate boaters on the importance of wearing their life jackets and to always make safety a priority while boating and on the water.”

The ACE Life Jacket Loaner program is back with loaner stations at all ACE-operated day-use and camping areas.  Families can borrow a life jacket when theirs is left at home or doesn’t fit properly.  Safe Kids Cherokee County donated the life jackets, with support from Northside Hospital.

The Ranger Trading Card program combines trading cards of ACE Allatoona Lake Park Rangers with water safety messages printed on the back.  Children under 15 years old can collect cards by showing their knowledge of water safety and win prizes, including:

• stickers
• tattoos
• beach towels
• T-shirts from the Lake Allatoona Association and
• life jackets.

The Buddy Beaver Card might win kids White Water park passes or — for the first time ever — Zoo Atlanta passes!  Participants must be spotted wearing a life jacket to receive a Buddy Beaver Card.

“We are grateful to Safe Kids Cherokee County and Lake Allatoona Association for their continued support of this program,” said Public Affairs Officer E. Patrick Robbins. “We also appreciate Zoo Atlanta, Six Flags and White Water for their donations to our Ranger Card program for participants that receive the Buddy Beaver Card.  Our supporters aid us in spreading the water safety message.”

We are thankful for all who contribute to the fun and safety of folks who love Lake Allatoona.

Here’s how to contact the Allatoona Lake Operations Project Management Office:

• Phone: 678-721-6700
• Website: Click Here for ACE Office at Lake Allatoona