Fourth Of July Weekend Boaters Urged To Take Caution On Wisconsin’s Rivers

Boaters are being urged to stay off the Mississippi River this weekend and to be extra careful on other rivers.

It’s been more than 20 years since the Mississippi River was this high around the Fourth of July. With reports of floating trees, trash, and hidden debris floating quickly downstream, state and local agencies are encouraging people to stay off the river.

“It’s extremely dangerous,” said Sgt. John Zimmerman of the La Crosse County Sheriff’s Department’s Water Patrol. “You have no idea what kind of debris is floating down the river. It’s scary out there right now — a lot of current.”

The Mississippi River is expected to go down, but not until next week.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Warden Supervisor Dave Hausman said boaters should also be cautious on the Lower St. Croix and Wisconsin rivers.

“I would really just avoid the rivers,” said Hausman. “If you have the opportunity to go to one of the inland lakes … most of the lakes in northern Wisconsin and central Wisconsin are in pretty good shape.”

As for people wanting to canoe and kayak on Wisconsin’s seemingly calmer rivers and streams, Badger State Boating Society President Tom Schrader said paddlers should be mindful of the conditions.

“You need to take a look at the river,” said Schrader. “The higher the water is, it’s going to move faster and potentially push your boat around more. It doesn’t mean that there isn’t fun to be had, but you need to know if your skill level is appropriate for what the water is doing.”

Schrader said it’s safer to paddle with a buddy and said boaters should always wear safety gear.