[OSMB-News] News Release -Input Sought for Proposed Rule on Illinois River

[Ashley MASSEY]

For Immediate Release	Date: Monday, October 23, 2006

Input Sought for Proposed Rule on Illinois River
	
The Oregon State Marine Board will be holding a public meeting to gather public comment regarding motorboat use on the Illinois River. The meeting will take place November 13 at 7 p.m. at Jot's Resort on Wedderburn Loop Road, in Gold Beach.

The Curry County Sheriff's Office requested Marine Board consideration of rules aimed at easing conflict between swimmers, rafters and powerboat operators on the lower section of the Illinois River during the low summer flows. The Board responded by opening up for public comment proposed rules that would do the following: Prohibit motorboat use above the "Big Rock" swimming hole at river mile 0.5 during the low summer flow period from June 15 through September 15; Prohibit motorboat use of the Illinois River year-round during night-time hours.

In addition to the public meeting, the Marine Board is also accepting written public comment on the proposed rule and must be received by Thursday, November 30. Comments can be sent to Randy Henry, OSMB, P.O. Box 14145, Salem, OR 97309.  They can also be sent via email to randy.h.henry at state.or.us, or via fax (503) 378-4597.  Comments by telephone cannot be accepted. 
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Ashley A. Massey
Public Affairs Specialist
Oregon State Marine Board
503-378-2623
503-378-8587 ext. 82623
ashley.massey at state.or.us