Drones are a new and exciting technology available to everyone and can be used for many purposes. These drones can be easily acquired and range in sophistication from small children’s toys to expensive professional units with high definition video cameras. For the recreational user, it’s only natural after acquiring one of these to visit places with scenic views and interesting topographic and manmade features.
Unfortunately, all types of unmanned remote controlled aircraft are prohibited on all public lands administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake. Many incidents have been documented of suspicious individuals performing reconnaissance at high value targets such as major landmarks and critical infrastructure with these types of aircraft. If used in recreation areas, these aircraft could potentially be a safety hazard to people, cause property damage and could potentially create personal privacy issues.
The regulation of these types of aircraft are covered under Code of Federal Regulations, Title 36, Paragraph 327.4, “Aircraft” and violations could result in severe fines up to $5,000 and/or possible imprisonment of up to six months. There are also other directives provided by the Federal Aviation Administration regarding this subject and should be investigated prior to operating.
For more information concerning this topic or other information about Wappapello Lake, like us on Facebook, go to our web page at http://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/WappapelloLake.aspx or call the Wappapello Lake Management Office at (573) 222-8562, a Park Ranger at 573-778-5404 or call the 24-hour Recreation Hotline at (573) 222-8139 or toll free at 1-877-LAKE-INFO.
Release no. 16-020