Because Branch Lake is the City of Ellsworth’s drinking water source, Branch Lake boat launch has strict regulations including a boat inspection before a craft can enter the water. Inspections are conducted at the City operated boat launch when an attendant is present, or with a small investment of time spent taking a training class boaters can become self-inspectors and venture out onto Branch Lake when they please.
May
5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. | Every day
June, July, August
5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. | Every day
September
6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. | Every day
The schedule is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Because Branch Lake is the City of Ellsworth’s drinking water source, Branch Lake boat launch has strict regulations including a boat inspection before a craft can enter the water. Inspections are conducted at the City operated boat launch when an attendant is present, or with a small investment of time spent taking a training class boaters can become self-inspectors and venture out onto Branch Lake when they please.
The City provides a free Self Inspection Course for anyone seeking to launch a boat at their convenience on Branch Lake. A one-hour training session is all that is required to become a certified self-inspector of boats for aquatic invasive species.
Please note: Self-inspection of personal watercraft (jet skis / wave runners) is prohibited. Personal watercraft must be inspected by City staff before being launched in Branch Lake.
There is no charge for the one-hour course, but advance registration is encouraged.
Contact the Water Department at 667-2563 for the Boat Self-Inspection Course schedule and registration.

Because Branch Lake is the City of Ellsworth’s drinking water source, Branch Lake boat launch has strict regulations including a boat inspection before a craft can enter the water. Inspections are conducted at the City operated boat launch when an attendant is present, or with a small investment of time spent taking a training class boaters can become self-inspectors and venture out onto Branch Lake when they please.