LITTLE ROCK, Ark. –The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Little Rock District is advising lake and river visitors to be cautious this Labor Day weekend. Labor Day weekend is among the top three busiest weekends of the year at the region’s lakes and rivers, and officials from the district say they expect this year will be no exception. However, they warn visitors to practice good water safety habits to avoid accidents that could result in serious injury or death.
Even though water levels are receding on the Arkansas River, this is not the same river that visitors may remember prior to the 2019 spring flood event. Sediment and sand have moved to new locations, river currents are behaving differently, and channels may have shifted. If you plan to be on the water this holiday weekend, please remember to wear your life jacket, and don’t overestimate your swimming abilities. Many people drown within 10-30 feet of safety. Many of the deaths that happen at our area lakes and rivers could have been avoided if a life jacket had been worn.
Several campsites are still closed because of damage from the flooding event. However, some parks have available campsites for use. To check park and campground closures please visit: swl.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Campground-Closures/
Life jackets worn, nobody mourns.
Release no. 19-146