Spring flows and river safety
By Eric Becker EBS CONTRIBUTOR
The
enthusiasm on the ski hill this season was ever-present, and now that warmer
weather has arrived, anticipation of the river scene radiates the same energy.
Whether you are a paddler trying to run whitewater and test your skills, or
someone who just wants to take in the spring sunshine on the banks, there are
precautions everyone should take during high water season.
Whitewater rafting and paddling
There are
always risks associated with whitewater, even when rivers are running well
within their expected limit. It is important that everyone on the water is
properly equipped to self-rescue and prepared to rescue others.
A personal
floatation device, helmet and throw bag are the bare minimum necessities for
most whitewater scenarios. Most days on the rivers in this region you will also
need a wetsuit or dry gear because of the water and air temperatures. Extra
layers and proper outerwear are critical in preventing hypothermia and having a
good time out there. Fleece, wool, neoprene and dry gear. That’s the name of
the game.
Decisions
you make prior to put-in are going to be most important during spring flows.
Flooding will undoubtedly move trees, brush and other debris down the river.
These hazards are especially dangerous when they are in motion, but also result
in changes in the river as they settle in, such as strainers. Be aware and make
smart choices about getting on the river if there are logs coming down the size
of your kayak or raft. Keep in contact with the whitewater community so that
you are informed of major river changes that others may have discovered.
Once on the
river, the most important addition to your whitewater trips will be additional
boats for safety. Injuries are possible regardless of water level. You should
run all of your river trips so that there are multiple boats and experienced
paddlers in your group. The more boats and trained people on the water, the
more resources available in the event of a river accident.
Keep your family and pets safe
Anyone who
slips into a river flowing quickly without a PFD is at serious risk. Take extra
precautions by the riverside and recognize “no fall zones.” For pets and
children, constant monitoring near the riverside may be necessary.
This is not
just true of larger rivers during spring flows. The West Fork and its
tributaries that run through Big Sky and along hiking trails can also pose
serious threats to pedestrians and their furry friends, especially during
spring flows. It is easy for someone without river experience to look at a
river and not understand its power or how dangerous it can become downstream.
Don’t underestimate and tread carefully while hiking.
It’s no news
to area fisherman that river-wading can be dangerous. For those comfortable
fishing and wading knee- to waist-deep in the Gallatin every year, it is
important to recognize that the river is different during spring flows. It is
surprising what knee-deep water can do when it’s flowing at 8,000 cfs and, as
those in the trade will tell you, taking a swim in waders can be life
threatening.
A fun and safe season
The warmer
weather as spring unfolds is exciting. We’re really fortunate to have the
Gallatin River in Big Sky to enjoy and share as a community. Let’s make the
most of it this season and stay safe.
Eric Becker founded Geyser Whitewater
Expeditions in 1992. Since then, Becker has followed his passion for
whitewater around the world, having guided professionally on 22 rivers and
paddled over 100 more in 13 different countries.
Visit raftmontana.com for more information.
A version of this article was first
published in the May 11, 2018, edition of EBS.
