| OSMB News |
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| Sheriff Advises Boaters to Avoid Savage Rapids Dam Breach |
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For Immediate Release -10/12/09
The Savage Rapids Dam was breached on October 9, allowing safe passage for fish, but not necessarily safe passage for boaters.
“The current is running really fast and the banks are extremely unstable,” says Josephine County Sheriff Gil Gilbertson. “There’s all kinds of debris, including rebar that can easily snag and flip a boat. Because of the varying depth and extreme speed of the current, its best that boaters avoid the area entirely and just stay out of it,” the Sheriff warns. “It’s dangerous for boaters and for people along the banks.”
On October 10, a jet boat operator crashed after making a run through the remains of the dam. Fortunately, three passengers survived, suffering only minor injuries. The boat operator was not as fortunate.
“The river is shifting things around every day,” Sheriff Gilbertson adds. A pinned drift boat is among the dam debris. The boater was able to make it out safely.
The contractor has signage upriver stating, “DANGER Unknown River Conditions Ahead. EXIT RIVER,” but the Sheriff’s Office will be adding additional signs warning boaters of the inherent danger.
To view video of the dam breaching and other video about the Rogue River, visit http://www.youtube.com/user/MailTribunenews.
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