Department of Natural Resources officials announced today that Van Etten Lake State Forest Campground in Iosco County will remain closed through the winter season. The campground was closed earlier in the year to facilitate upgrades to the campground and boat launch. The mid-November completion date has been extended to the spring of 2009.

The delay, due to the sudden onset of cold weather and heavy snow, has hindered the completion of work that would allow for the public use of the boat launch. This launch has been used in years past by ice fishermen. The DNR encourages fishermen to use other public access sites in the area this winter.

Information on other fishing opportunities can be found on the DNR's Web site at http://www.mcgi.state.mi.us/MRBIS, or by calling the DNR Gaylord Operations Service Center at 989-732-3541, extension "0" for the operator.