Media Advisory: Public hearing for comments on request to operate a pontoon boat rental business on Lake Beshear

​FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 15, 2025) — The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources will host a public hearing to receive comments on a request to operate a commercial pontoon boat rental business on Lake Beshear near Dawson Springs, Ky. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, from 7-8 p.m. (CT), and it will be open to the public.

Officials representing Kentucky Fish and Wildlife will be present to collect public comments regarding the request by Corey and Kristin Merrill to locate a pontoon rental service on the lake.

Impounded in 1962, Lake Beshear is a reservoir lake located in Caldwell and Christian counties. Lake Beshear lies within Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park adding to the numerous outdoor amenities available to the public.

The request for operation of the pontoon boat rental service will be heard for consideration at the upcoming Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting on Sept. 19. All written comments and a summary of all verbal comments received at the public meeting will be provided to commission members for review prior to the September meeting.

Those unable to attend the public meeting may still provide comment to be considered by the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commission at the meeting. Written comments may be directed to “Lake Beshear Public Comment" at the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, KY 40601, or by email with “Lake Beshear Public Comment" in the subject line to fw.fisheries@ky.gov. Public comments must be received by 5 p.m. (ET) on Wednesday, Sept. 17.

Commenters should include their first and last name, county and state of residence, and organization represented with position held in the organization, if applicable. Mailed or emailed comments will be distributed to all commission members at least 24 hours prior to the meeting for their review individually.

EVENT DETAILS

What:             Lake Beshear public meeting

When:            Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025, 7-8 p.m. (CT)

Where:           Pennyrile State Resort Park Lodge

                       20781 Pennyrile Lodge Road, Dawson Springs, KY 42408

                       270-797-3421

Who:              Officials representing the Kentucky Department of Fish

                       and Wildlife Resources

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