Record-breaking low water levels pose hazards for Oregon boaters
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) issued a joint safety warning to recreational boaters in Oregon as warmer weather returns. The agencies highlighted the persistent danger of cold water and increased navigation hazards due to anticipated record-breaking low water levels this season.
Oregon's waterways are expected to experience lower than normal levels because of limited snowpack and emerging drought conditions.
The warning emphasizes that even with warm air temperatures, the water in most Oregon waterways remains under 70 degrees year-round, allowing hypothermia to set in quickly. The expected record-breaking dry season will lead to changing conditions and a concentration of recreationists in popular waterbodies.
Officials advise boaters to dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature and to consult the OEM Blog for tips on cold water exposure. Falls overboard are the leading cause of accidental drowning. Most fatalities from drowning are due to cold water shock, which is sudden immersion into cold water. Data from the 2019-2024 U.S. Coast Guard Accident Statistics shows that roughly 84-87% of fatal boating incident victims were not wearing a life jacket.
Lower water levels can expose hazards that were not visible in prior years. Ashley Massey, Public Information Officer for the Marine Board, explained, “Low water can expose submerged rocks, stumps, sand or gravel bars and other hazards to navigation that may not have been visible in previous years.” Massey added that even familiar lakes and rivers can look and behave differently during drought, with river currents potentially becoming stronger in some areas and stalling in others. She advises boaters to prepare for any situation, allow ample time for launching and taking out and boat with others who can provide aid if necessary.
To help recreational boaters stay safe, the OSMB and OEM offer specific guidance. All boaters should wear a life jacket, choose waterways that match their skill level to avoid becoming stranded and carry all required equipment in good working order. It is also recommended to share a float plan, including destination, boat type and expected return time, with a trusted person. Boaters should operate slowly, stay alert for quickly changing conditions and monitor water levels closely. Motorized boaters should check local regulations and review the boat ramp status map for low-water ramps, while paddlers should operate closer to shore.
Motorized boaters need deeper water to operate safely and must watch their wake, operating at slow-no wake speeds in narrow and shallow areas. Both types of boat users should avoid unfamiliar or narrow channels during low-water conditions. Using a depth finder, setting shallow-water alarms and monitoring depth are also recommended. All boaters should monitor weather forecasts, tides and changing water conditions and be courteous to other boaters by keeping launching areas clear.
In Oregon, children 12 and younger must wear a life jacket when underway on any boat and life jackets are required for all boaters on Class III whitewater rivers. Operators of motorboats more than 10 horsepower must carry a boating safety education card. Additionally, paddlers operating non-motorized boats are required to have a waterway access permit. More information on safe boating practices and legal requirements can be found at Boat.Oregon.gov.
Erin Zysett, an OEM spokesperson, reiterated the agencies' commitment to safety. “Safety is always our top priority,” Zysett said. “We want all people in Oregon to enjoy time on the water responsibly. Stay informed. Respect the unique hazards water presents. Be prepared. And help protect our waterways and communities.”
