Boating

PLAY IT SAFE ON THE RIVER

1. For your own safety's sake, heed all cautions, warnings and notices!
2. CAUTION: When boating outside of marked navigation channel, watch for underwater objects and shallow water.
3. WARNING: Areas outside the navigation channel immediately above and below the dams are hazardous for small boats and should be avoided.
4. WARNING: Boating is not allowed within 600 feet above and 300 feet below dams.
5. WARNING: Small craft warnings are issued when flows reach 70,000 cubic feet per second.
6. NOTICE: Diving, swimming, and wading are not allowed in Corps operated parks along the Arkansas River Navigation System unless otherwise posted.
7. CAUTION: When winds of 25 MPH or more are forecast or blowing, boaters are cautioned to stay out of open water.

LOCKING PROCEDURE FOR PLEASURE CRAFT

1. Head your boat directly for the lock, not the spillway section.
2. Signal for the lockage by pulling the designated chain located near the ends of the support walls. ( See sign on approach wall.)
3. If other vessels are at the lock awaiting lockage, it is not necessary to signal.
4. Remain at a safe distance from the lock until the lock is ready to receive vessels.
5. Wait for the traffic signal light to turn green and for the lockmaster's horn signal before entering the lock.
6. Before entering the lock, take position in the rear of any vessels or rafts that precede your boat.
7. Be alert for any vocal instructions from the Lockmaster during lockage.
8. After the water level has been raised or lowered, wait for a horn signal before casting off and leaving the dock.

Updated/Reviewed: 1 May 2009