Boaters by Columbia River dam spillway rescued. Officials urge caution

A recreational boat was in danger of being swept into the McNary Dam spillway structures this past week, putting the lives of those on the boats at risk and prompting an emergency response, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The boat was disabled and drifted into the restricted area just above the dam on the Columbia River between Benton and Umatilla counties, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Spill operations were adjusted to reduce hazardous surface spill flows, as a Corps boat was deployed to reach the recreational boat and escort them from danger on Monday, the Corps said.

“While surface spill operations support fish passage, they create highly hazardous flow conditions,” the Corps said. “A disabled or drifting boat can easily be swept toward spillway structures, where the danger may not be visible until it is too late to safely maneuver away.”

Boating safety near dams

The Army Corps provides these safety tips:

▪ Never enter designated boat restricted zones above or below dams.

▪ Ensure your boat is mechanically sound to prevent engine failure in swift currents.

▪ Keep a reliable anchor ready for immediate deployment to prevent drifting if your vessel loses power

▪ Have a backup oar or paddle to navigate to shore if the engine fails.

▪ Ensure all passengers wear properly fitted life jackets.

▪ Maintain a lookout for hazards, buoys and warning signs.

▪ Know your boat’s handling capabilities in swift, turbulent waters.

▪ Ensure you can summon emergency help and receive weather alerts in areas without cellular coverage. Use a marine radio to monitor VHF Channel 14 for local lock-related communications. Walla Walla District Corps lock call signs include: McNary – WUJ 41; Ice Harbor – WUJ 42; Lower Monumental – WUJ 43; Little Goose – WUJ 44; Lower Granite – WUJ 45.

▪ Because a disabled or drifting boat near a dam is an immediate emergency, boaters should call 911 right away. Do not delay callouts to wait for friends or to see if conditions worsen.