Navigation Danger on McKenzie River, Aug. 14

Responding to public concern, Lane County marine patrol deputies confirmed a navigation obstruction to the Marine Board on August 10, warning boaters about two root wads with multiple strainers, located just downstream of the Bellinger Landing County Park on the McKenzie River. The obstructions are visible and located on river left from the main channel of the river. Paddlers are advised to portage over the gravel bar on river right (heading downstream and shown in the image above), well in advance of the obstructions. The current is swift, leading less maneuverable craft directly into the root wads. For jet boat operators, the area should be avoided. The water is too shallow to safely pass the obstruction. The secondary channel north of the island (river right from Bellinger) is not passable at this time. Due to the location and lack of surrounding land access, this obstruction cannot be mitigated at this time, but Lane County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol will continue to monitor the location and have posted warning signs at the boat ramp. For information about reported navigation obstructions and options for boaters, visit http://www.oregon.gov/OSMB/Pages/safety/navigation_hazards.aspx.