John Martin Reservoir State Park Warns Unauthorized Drone Pilots

Description: John Martin Reservoir State Park Recently Reported Illegal Drone Flights Over US Army Corp of Engineers Project Lands...

John Martin Reservoir State Park Warns Unauthorized Drone Pilots

This past week has seen several unauthorized drones taking off and being flown above John Martin Reservoir State Park and US Army Corp of Engineers properties, so we thought it would be a good time to educate where drone operation is allowed on park and around the dam, and the impact it can have on wildlife, such as the bald eagles out here.

The short answer is that it is unlawful to operate any radio-controlled and/or fuel-propelled models, except in designated areas. The only state designated areas are the Cherry Creek and Chatfield State Park airfields. (reg. #100.C.24)

Further, the US. Army Corp of Engineers prohibits any aircraft on project lands and properties other than those designated by the District Commander, and only aircraft engaged in official business may be used. (Title 36 EP 1165-2-316 (327.4b))

Like a car, boat, or any other vehicle, it is the responsibility of the operators to know local and state regulations for those vehicles and where they can be operated. While FAA apps can be useful for following airspace restrictions, they only apply to airspaces and not the property being operated on, and the apps still advise you to follow state and local restrictions. 

For more information on how drone use can interfere with wildlife, hunters, and other recreation users, we recommend reading through this article provided by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in Colorado Outdoors Magazine:

Using Drones in Colorado - Colorado Outdoors Magazine (CPW)

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