Salem-News.com Boating articles

Oregon`s Recreational Boating Fatalities Improved but Remain High

Sadly, the number of female victims was double the 10-year average in 2021.

(SALEM, Ore.) - 2021 was a safer boating year than 2020, says the Oregon State Marine Board, but the number of fatalities was still above historic levels.

“It would be a great resolution for more boaters to simply wear their life jackets in 2022."

Marine Board Warns of Hazards on Oregon Waterways

Trees, root wads and other natural debris are a common part of Oregon's rivers and streams.

(SALEM, Ore. ) - As a result of less snow pack and lower rainfall amounts this winter, many Oregon lakes and rivers will be reaching historically low levels which will expose previously unseen hazards to boaters this summer.

Stumps, rocks, logs and other obstructions could be just below the surface, resulting in hull or prop damage in areas that are normally navigable. These obstructions also impact the water dynamics and the currents in rivers, which can increase the difficulty to navigate safely, especially for paddlecraft.

Oregon Law Enforcement Conducting Operation Dry Water

U.S. Coast Guard data reveals that alcohol is the primary contributing factor in recreational boating fatalities.

(SALEM, Ore. ) - The Oregon State Marine Board and law enforcement partners from 32 counties and Oregon State Police will be participating in Operation Dry Water, June 27-29.

In Oregon, the consequences of being convicted of BUII include the possibility of jail time, $6,250 in fines, and loss of boating or even driving privileges.

Salem Work Crews to Begin Repairs on Upper Bennett Dam

During construction, the south channel around the island and the boat slide at the dam will be closed.

(STAYTON, Ore. ) - The boat slide at the Upper Bennett Dam will be closed between July 15, and August 30, to allow the City of Salem to make repairs to the Upper Bennett Dam.

During a routine inspection of the Upper Bennett Dam in August 2013, a void area was discovered under the structure that required immediate attention.

Warning Issued for Foster Reservoir Users This Summer

Linn County Parks will install extra dock sections at the Lewis Creek moorages to extend them into deeper water.

(SWEET HOME, Ore. ) - The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers alerts boaters and other users of Foster Reservoir near Sweet Home, Ore., that the reservoir has been filled to an elevation of 635 feet above sea level for the summer of 2014; about two feet lower than usual.

All boat ramps and Edgewater Marinas should still be accessible.