[OSMB-News] News Release -Sheriff Urges Boaters to Avoid Savage Rapids Dam Breach

[Ashley Massey]

For Immediate Release	Date: Monday, October 12, 2009

Sheriff Urges Boaters to Avoid Savage Rapids Dam Breach

The Savage Rapids Dam was breached on October 9, allowing safe passage
for fish, but not necessarily safe passage for boaters.  
	
“The current is running really fast and the banks are extremely
unstable,” says Josephine County Sheriff Gil Gilbertson.  “There’s
all kinds of debris, including rebar that can easily snag and flip a
boat.  Because of the varying depth and extreme speed of the current,
its best that boaters avoid the area entirely and just stay out of
it,” the Sheriff warns.  “It’s dangerous for boaters and for
people along the banks.”
	
On October 10, a jet boat operator crashed after making a run through
the remains of the dam.  Fortunately, three passengers survived,
suffering only minor injuries.  The boat operator was not as fortunate.

	
“The river is shifting things around every day,” Sheriff Gilbertson
adds.  A pinned drift boat is among the dam debris. The boater was able
to make it out safely.  
The contractor has signage upriver stating, “DANGER Unknown River
Conditions Ahead. EXIT RIVER,” but the Sheriff’s Office will be
adding additional signs warning boaters of the inherent danger.
	
To view video of the dam breaching and other video about the Rogue
River, visit http://www.youtube.com/user/MailTribunenews.

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Ashley A. Massey
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Marine Board
503-378-2623
503-378-8587 ext. 82623
ashley.massey at state.or.us
www.boatoregon.com
www.twitter.com/marineboard

"Clean, Drain and Dry your boat to prevent the spread of aquatic
nuisance species."