Captain Matt Walz, director of the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Water Patrol Division, is emphasizing the importance of boaters being informed about river and lake conditions before they put their vessels into the water.
A news release says recreational boaters are being discouraged from operating their vessels on flooded waterways where property will be negatively impacted by boat wakes, especially over the upcoming holiday weekend. Memorial Day weekend is generally one of the busiest of the boating season, and the high-water levels on many of the waterways around the state will impact property, including structures in some areas, and boat wakes will only increase the damage. By state law, boat operators are required to operate in a careful and prudent manner and exercise the highest degree of care.
Boaters are encouraged to use the adage of “know before you go” and to research the river and lake conditions before operating a vessel in a flood-affected area. Many waterways, regardless of current water levels, will contain a significant amount of floating debris due to the recent heavy rains and high-water levels. Thus, boaters must maintain a proper lookout for potential hazards in the water and exercise caution. In addition, many of the boat access areas on waterways may be affected.