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8/22/2007

Canoeists and Kayakers Should Avoid Southeastern Minnesota Rivers

Rain-swollen rivers have prompted boat and water safety officials to recommend canoeists and kayakers stay off of rivers in southern Minnesota affected by recent flooding.

"High water has made many rivers in Southern Minnesota dangerous to anyone in a watercraft, especially canoes and kayaks," said Tim Smalley, DNR boating safety specialist. “Fast currents and debris in the water and along river banks are making conditions hazardous for paddlers.”

Safety concerns come from high current flow, plus debris that is washed into the water by rain and higher river levels. The debris includes tree branches and man-made items that have been swept in by the high water and some of the debris floats at or just below the surface.

High river current flows can be attractive to some canoe and kayak enthusiasts who like the thrill of running rapids. It can be quite dangerous now, especially for paddlers.

“Debris hidden along stream banks and just under the surface can capsize a canoe or kayak and then the fast current can pin a victim underwater,” said Smalley. “While wearing a life jacket is always a smart thing to do, even a life jacket might not save you from being trapped under a fallen tree limb.”

Accesses and canoe campsites on certain rivers are currently closed due to flooding.

Check the DNR Web site for more information. River level readings are updated each Thursday on the DNR Web site. Canoeists, kayakers and boaters can find out how high the water flow is for a number of rivers in Minnesota at www.mndnr.gov.