A new restaurant is expected to open in coming months at the Orchard Springs Campground at Rollins Reservoir, under actions taken Wednesday by directors of the Nevada Irrigation District.

Board members enthusiastically supported the proposal and business plan from Colfax restaurant operator Jason McKinney to re-establish The Lure Restaurant at the resort. The restaurant had not operated since 2006.

Director Nick Wilcox said having an operating restaurant at the site is in NID's best interests.

“Whatever enhances the experience for the campers out there will bring more people back and be a benefit for the area,” he said.

McKinney, who has operated the Colfax Max restaurant for two years, said he plans steak, seafood and sandwich fare and expects to obtain a liquor license for beer and wine.

The lease arrangement calls for McKinney's rent to be 7.5 percent of gross receipts or the costs of utility services, whichever is greater. The board approved the lease on a one-year trial basis.

“It's a good lease,” said Director John Drew. “It's good for the district and it's sensitive to the needs of the lessee.”

Dave Carter is a freelance writer who lives in Nevada City.