RAMPING UP THEIR MUSSELS

Boaters who plan on visiting Lake Powell should make sure they don't arrive at a major launch ramp between 10 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.

If they arrive during those hours, they won't be able to launch their boats because the National Park Service has closed the ramps from 10 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. Utah time.

The nighttime ramp closure is part of a continuing effort to keep quagga and zebra mussels out of the lake.

Beginning last week, Park Service personnel are at the lake's major launch ramps from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. Every boater will be asked a series of questions before they launch their boat.

Boats that have been on waters infested with quagga or zebra mussels must be decontaminated before they're launched.

"Quagga and zebra mussels attach themselves to boats," said Wayne Gustaveson, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources' lead aquatic biologist at the lake. "That's the major way they move among bodies of water.

"Contacting every boater at a major ramp will help ensure quagga and zebra mussels don't enter the lake."

For more information, call the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area at (928) 608-6200 or visit www.nps.gov/glca.

HUNTING APPLICATIONS DUE

Hunting permits for sage grouse and sharp-tailed grouse, as well as sandhill cranes, will be available in Utah through a draw this year, and applications are due today.

That's a change for Utah's grouse hunters who, in the past, could purchase the permits on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applications to hunt these three birds must be received by 11 p.m. tonight to be included in the draw for permits. Applications are available at www.wildlife.utah.gov, and also over the phone by calling any DWR office no later than 6 p.m. today.

SATURDAY AT JORDANELLE

HEBER CITY — An evening of fireworks and entertainment is planned for Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m. at Jordanelle State Park.

Live music, kabobs, hot dogs, burgers, and drinks will be available, and local dealers and sponsors will provide wakeboard, kneeboard, and skyski exhibitions. Fireworks will begin at 10 p.m.

Those interested should bring blankets and lawn chairs and find a spot on the day-use beach area. Entrance fee is $10 per car with up to eight occupants.

Jordanelle State Park is located off US 40 at the Mayflower Exit 8.

For information, call 435-649-9540 or visit stateparks.utah.gov.

OHV CENTER STAYING OPEN

Construction at the Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Center, which would have closed the park, has been postponed until further notice.

The park remains open for riding during its regular business hours of Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. until sundown.

For information, call 801-533-5425.