Potential boating hazards found on the lower Colorado River near the Parker Dam
DATE/TIME: July 12, 2018
INCIDENT: Hazards on the Colorado River
LOCATION: Colorado River near the Parker Dam, Parker Dam, California
SUSPECT(S): Unknown
SUMMARY:
On Monday, July 9, 2018, Marine Enforcement deputies with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department were made aware of potential boating hazards on the lower Colorado River near the Parker Dam. At least two foam noodle tubes were found floating just below the water’s surface on the Colorado River, north of the Echo Lodge Resort and south of the Parker Dam. The foam noodle tubes contain miscellaneous chains and pad locks that are anchored to the river's bottom and positioned in a manner which could lead to damage to vessel outdrives if struck. Deputies from the La Paz County Sheriff's Department located the two devices and removed them from the river.
With information obtained from the public regarding people seen placing the foam and anchors near the California shoreline, SCUBA divers from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's dive team conducted a search on the river north of the Sunshine Resort. Sheriff's Deputy Mike Abel determined the foam noodle devices found were the remnants of a self-made designated swim and snorkel area, which had been placed along the California shoreline by unknown visitors to the area over the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The public is reminded that the placment of a permanent mooring or swimming area requires permits per California law and US Coast Guard regulations and could result in criminal prosecution.
California law requires persons operating a vessel on the waterway to slow to a no wake speed within 100 feet of a swimmer and within 200 feet of a beach frequented by swimmers.
The boating public is asked to use caution and always keep a clear look out for potential hazards while boating on the Colorado River. If any additional, non-natural hazards are located, the public is asked to contact the Sheriff's Department. Anyone with information about the origin of these items is urged to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department.
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Refer: Corporal Travis Vessells
Station: Colorado River Station
Phone No. 760-326-9200
JOHN McMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
Address/Location
SBSD - Colorado River Sheriffs Department
1111 Bailey Ave
Needles, CA 92363
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1