Use extra caution to enjoy a safe Labor Day weekend on the water; Dworshak Visitor Center hours to change

Published Sept. 1, 2011

AHSAHKA, Idaho – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Walla Walla District reminds everyone to practice water safety while enjoying outdoor recreation during this last holiday of the summer.

While enjoying the end of the recreation season, Dworshak rangers would like visitors to be aware that water levels are dropping on the reservoir. Despite the receding water, several locations are available for boat launching: Big Eddy, Bruces Eddy #1, Freeman Creek (Dworshak State Park), Dent Acres, and Grandad.

Swift currents, high flows and cold water present unique boating and anchoring conditions on many rivers. To anchor safely, use anchor lines that are five to seven times the depth of the water. River depth may exceed 100 feet in some places, requiring long anchor lines.

Be sure to use a float for the anchor line to serve as a buffer and to reduce the risk of getting the anchor line caught in the propeller. Lower, don't throw the anchor to avoid line tangles. Anchor only off the bow; anchoring off the stern or side can capsize your boat.

All of the campgrounds at Dworshak are open. Starting Sept. 6, Dent Acres will be available for late season, first come, first serve camping. Site fees are $10 per day by self-deposit registration. Dent Acres offers 50 campsites with electric, water and sewer hookups. All other campsites, including minicamps are available on a first come, first serve basis.

This holiday weekend is also a time to remember safety whenever playing on or around the water – safety is everyone’s responsibility! Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind while having fun at Dworshak:

 

·         Swift currents, high flows and cold water present unique boating and anchoring conditions on many rivers. To anchor safely, use anchor lines that are five to seven times the depth of the water. River depth may exceed 100 feet in some places, requiring long anchor lines.

·         Be sure to use a float for the anchor line to serve as a buffer and to reduce the risk of getting the anchor line caught in the propeller. Lower, don't throw the anchor to avoid line tangles. Anchor only off the bow; anchoring off the stern or side can capsize your boat.

·         Changing weather conditions can create unsafe situations on open water. Know the weather and have a float plan.

·         Keep life jackets on children while on or around the water, and don’t let small children out of your sight.

·         Fire danger is present, so be careful with your campfire; heed posted fire restrictions and extinguish smoking materials.

·         Check the serviceability of your boat.

·         Ensure accessible, proper fitting, and serviceable life vests are available for each occupant on your boat.

·         Familiarize yourself with the area where you will be boating before traveling at high speeds. There may be rocks, stumps, or shallow areas not visible from the surface.

Corps park rangers and local law enforcement officials will be patrolling throughout the holiday weekend to assist visitors on both land and water.

The Dworshak Dam Visitor Center will return to fall hours starting Sept. 6. The center will be open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The visitor center will be showing the following historic films: “Last of the Log Drive” and “Dworshak Dam Construction.” For more information, call the Corps at 800-321-3198, or the visitor center at 208-476-1255.

Recreation information is also available on the Walla Walla District website at www.nww.usace.army.mil.

 

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Release no. 11-125