For Immediate Release

Date: May 18, 2004

Wording Change Clarifies New River Boating Rule

Confusion over the wording of a boating rule for New River in Coos County has led the Oregon State Marine Board to propose new language that will clarify when and what type of motors are allowed on the small coastal stream.

"We are proposing amending the existing administrative rule adopted in 2001," said Wayne Shuyler, Assistant Marine Board Director. "The rule was meant to allow only electric motors on New River from March 1 through Sept. 30, and all motors Oct. 1 through February 28. The wording was ambiguous enough that there was confusion, so the new language should clarify the issue."

The purpose for the original ruling was to satisfy a Bureau of Land Management request seeking protection for snowy plover spring nesting activities. BLM also sought to restrict motorboats outside of nesting season to electric motors only. The Board adopted a compromise that allowed all motorboat use outside the nesting season to accommodate hunters and anglers who have traditionally used New River in the fall and winter. BLM has again requested a year-round "electric motor only" rule that would allow them to "maintain the undisturbed quality of the area and visitor experience." The Board may consider this option again and is soliciting comment on this proposal as well.

The Marine Board will consider the new language at the June 30 Board meeting. Written comments on the revised rule are welcome, but must be received by Monday, June 21. Comments can be sent by mail to "OSMB - Wayne Shuyler, PO Box 14145, Salem OR 97309. They can also be sent via fax to (503) 378-4597, or via e-mail to marine.board@state.or.us. Telephone comments will not be accepted.

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