Willamette Falls Boating Deadline to Remain the Same

The Marine Board plans to improve signage at the site and will continue to observe boating activity during low water periods.

Willamette Locks Photo by: Tim King

(WEST LINN, Ore. ) - The Marine Board held a public meeting on April 4th, to hear comments on revising the current boating deadline at Willamette Falls.

The Marine Board investigated the new fish bypass system in the cul-de-sac area of the falls and had originally proposed changing the boating deadline due to safety concerns for boaters.

There was general agreement that the green bridge, which is the current boating deadline, was the preferred deadline for angling and enforcement purposes.

"We have decided that an emergency rule change is not necessary at this time. We plan to improve signage at the site and will continue to observe boating activity during low water periods and when fish are concentrated in the area during May and June," says Randy Henry, Planning and Policy Analyst for the Marine Board.

"If a safety risk develops, we will consider additional action at that time. Boaters are encouraged to avoid the area during periods of high flows, just as they are currently."