Some counties have closed fast-running rivers to recreation. Here’s the stance in Stanislaus
Stanislaus County authorities are not going to close fast-running rivers to recreation but are stressing the waterways are hazardous for those lacking the proper equipment and skills.
Sheriff Jeff Dirkse delivered an update on the weather and flood emergency Tuesday to the county Board of Supervisors.
The sheriff said agencies in some counties have closed swollen rivers to recreation because of the threat of drowning and challenges of trying to rescue people in those conditions.
Rivers like the Tuolumne in Stanislaus County are expected to run high through July as warmer temperatures melt the huge snowpack in the Sierra. But as director of county emergency services, Dirkse said he won’t take action to ban recreation.
“I struggle with the issue of closing an avenue of recreation for the community simply because the water is high,” Dirkse said.
Closing the rivers to rafters would affect businesses and stifle enthusiasts who look forward to whitewater conditions, the sheriff said. He suggested that people hire the services of a professional rafting business if they want to enjoy a day on the river.
A statewide warning has advised the public not to recreate on rivers because of the hazards. Agencies in Stanislaus County already have conducted several river rescues this spring.
Just Saturday, crews responded to the Stanislaus River in Riverbank for four individuals stranded and unable to continue down the river. Two rescue boats launched and quickly returned the rafters to Jacob Myers Park.
Signs being posted on the Tuolumne and Stanislaus rivers, and a video on social media, are warning of the conditions and the dangers of getting in the water without training and good equipment.
Dirkse warned that people shouldn’t buy pool toys or uncertified flotation devices to float down the Stanislaus from the parks along the river.
The sheriff noted that if the river conditions are not safe, rescue teams may not be able to get to people who run into trouble. The Sheriff’s Department will be patrolling the Stanislaus and Tuolumne when conditions allow.
The county has been under a local state of emergency since March 14 because of the extreme winter weather and flooding hazards, which are expected to continue into the summer. Authorities are not planning to call an end to the emergency declaration anytime soon.
This story was originally published May 2, 2023 at 12:29 PM.
