Lake Roosevelt Boater Warning

Details

Published: Friday, 11 May 2018 20:44

By Eric Weatherman, Columbia Navigation

The current high run off and flooding conditions combined with the current low lake levels on Lake Roosevelt are causing floating wood debris to escape from the established catch boom facilities at China Bar and the mouth of the Kettle River.  Other tributary streams and rivers are contributing to these conditions as well.  This will allow floating debris to enter Lake Roosevelt and flow downstream with the normal river currents.  Boaters are advised to use caution during these conditions especially during times of high wind or wave action which can make floating wood debris hard to see during boat travel. Read More

As the Lake continues to fill it will also refloat once sunken and exposed debris found along the beaches that have dried out and become buoyant once again.  These debris pieces historically float low in the water and will eventually sink once again after being exposed to the rising waters.

Floating wood debris pieces that can be encountered in Lake Roosevelt will range in size from typical bark nuggets to full size tree length stems that may or may not have root systems attached.  Caution should be taken when approaching or passing by any large debris pieces taking special consideration for the possibility of additional length that may be just under the water surface and not immediately visible to passing boaters.

These current conditions and debris exposures could remain a concern and safety consideration until the lake has approached full pool.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Eric Weatherman
EricW1962@gmail.com
509-680-4335

Click here for Lake Level & Boat Launch information.