U.S. Army Corps Looks To Improve Green Country Lakes

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is hoping to revitalize some Green Country lakes.

Right now, the Corps is taking suggestions for recreational development for Keystone and Oologah Lakes.

And because of a decline in federal funding, it's looking for the public's help.

The sun shines on Keystone Lake as kids get in one last splash of spring break before heading back to school.

"Just camping and swimming and enjoying the weather that finally came our way," said Mark Shyers of Sand Springs.

Shyers has been coming to this area of the lake since he was a kid, and now he's sharing that experience with his own children.

It's a fun family weekend that might be better with a few modifications.

"I would like to see a beach with sand, like a whole stretch of area with nothing but sand so you don't have to worry about mud or rocks," Shyers said.

The Corps is ready to make changes just like that, but they're faced with a shortfall in federal funding to put toward recreational needs.

Government money is going toward the safety and upkeep of structures on Oklahoma lakes.

The Corps is calling for partners -- groups or individuals -- and taking proposals for new recreational development.

Much like the $1.5 million harbor marina that's set open this fall on Keystone Lake near Mannford.

For that project, the Corps teamed up with State Source, the Tulsa company behind the Crosstimbers marina and restaurant project on Skiatook Lake.

The corps is also looking at adding smaller projects, like updating and adding hiking trails.

"What we want to do is give more people the opportunities for people to come out," Col. Mike Teague said.

And with changes possibly on the horizon, people hope take advantage of those opportunities.

"We're having a blast, finally we got some good weather," Shyers said.

The Corps would like to hear public input by the end of this month.

Submit your proposal here.