As SWEPCO undertakes important infrastructure repairs near the Turk plant's water intake structure, boaters are advised to take advantage of other access points along the Little River.
Fulton, Ark. – July 14, 2025 – Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) is launching a critical infrastructure project on the Little River near the Turk Power Plant’s water intake structure. Scheduled to begin in late July, this essential work will help ensure the continued reliability and efficiency of power generation at the facility.
Boaters are advised to seek alternate boat launches while this project is underway, as access to the Allen Ferry Boat Launch on County Road 190 may be limited during project activities. Weather permitting, work is expected to start the week of July 21 and could make the ramp inaccessible at times during daylight hours while work is underway. The project is expected to take approximately two days to complete.
For boaters seeking a nearby access point during construction, they could consider River Run West Recreation Area & Campground in Ashdown.
“We’re working closely with local officials on this project and our goal is to minimize disruption to the Little River,” said Turk Power Plant Manager Jason Agee.
Turk Power Plant Manager Jason Agee near the Allen Ferry access point where the infrastructure project will occur with trained repair divers.
The project involves a small diving barge used to access the intake structure. Project coordinators are collaborating with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission to minimize interruptions of the boat ramp access during the intake structure repairs.
“At Turk, we are focused on maintaining stable operations and safely generating power for customers and will work quickly and safely to undertake these necessary repairs," Agee said.
A similar project was conducted by the plant in 2022.
SWEPCO is actively working with the Army Corps of Engineers and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission on this project. The company’s External Affairs team is also working with local elected officials to keep the community informed about the project.
Project Details
- Work is set to begin in late July.
- Protecting the intake system from damage helps maintain a steady supply of water needed for various power generation functions that support SWEPCO customers.
- Boaters are advised to seek alternate boat launches while this project is underway, as access to the Allen Ferry Boat Launch on County Road 190 may be limited during construction. For boaters seeking a nearby access point during construction, they could consider River Run West Recreation Area & Campground in Ashdown.
The company has consulted with state agencies, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Department to comply with all regulations.