Uncategorized
Back 40: Spring flows and river safety
Published
6 years agoon
Posted By
Outlaw PartnersBy Eric Becker
Big Sky and the surrounding area experienced several substantial storms this winter and as a result the snowpack heading into summer is the deepest it’s been in over a decade. 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 be properly equipped to self-rescue and prepared to rescue others. A personal floatation device (PFD), 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. River trips are going to be wetter and colder than in recent years so extra layers and proper outerwear are going to be 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 still 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 will be different this year 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. This year’s ski season was one for the books and we look forward to another fun, whitewater-filled summer. 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.
The Outlaw Partners is a creative marketing, media and events company based in Big Sky, Montana.
Upcoming Events
march, 2024
Event Type :
All
All
Arts
Education
Music
Other
Sports
Event Details
Children turning 5 on or before 9/10/2024:
more
Event Details
Children turning 5 on or before
9/10/2024: Kindergarten
enrollment for the 2024-2025 school year can be completed by following the
registration process now.
Children
born on or after September 11, 2019: 4K enrollment is now open for
families that have a 4-year-old they would like to enroll in our program for
the 2023-2024 school year. Please complete the 4K Interest Form to
express your interest. Completing this form does not guarantee enrollment into
the 4K program. Enrollment is capped at twenty 4-year-olds currently
residing within Big Sky School District boundary full time and will be
determined by birth date in calendar order of those born on or after September
11, 2018. Interest form closes on May 30th.
Enrollment now is critical for fall preparations. Thank you!
Time
February 26 (Monday) - April 21 (Sunday)
Event Details
My Barking Dog is a nightmare comedy
more
Event Details
My Barking Dog is a nightmare comedy that tells the story of Toby and Melinda, two lonely people whose lives are forever changed the night they encounter a starving coyote at their apartment building. Over time they grow to expect him, leaving ritual offerings to entice the coyote every night. Toby and Melinda forge a connection over this visitor and share curiosity and concern about his presence in the city. The coyote expands their world–until, one night, their world is shattered. Their lives are pushed suddenly into uncharted territory, sending them on a surreal odyssey that changes their city–and the world–forever.
Directed by LX Miller. Starring Max Schneider and Denise Hergett
Verge Theater is continuing their mission to provide accessible theater to our community. Tickets for My Barking Dog are Pay What You Wish with a suggested price of $35. Audience members are offered the opportunity to select the price point that is comfortable for them when purchasing tickets.
My Barking Dog runs March 15-17, 22-24, 28-30
Performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays begin at 7:00 p.m., with Sunday matinees offered at 3:00 p.m.
Suitable for ages 16 . No animals are harmed in the staging of this production.
Tickets are available online at www.vergetheater.com
Time
15 (Friday) 7:00 pm - 30 (Saturday) 8:30 pm
Location
Verge Theater
Event Details
Area parents are encouraged to bring their young children to Symphony Storytime with a Bassoon which will be presented at the Bozeman Public Library’s Community Room during
more
Event Details
Area parents are encouraged to bring their young children to Symphony Storytime with a Bassoon which will be presented at the Bozeman Public Library’s Community Room during their regular Toddler and Preschool Storytime on Wednesday, March 20, at 10:15 a.m. The free program, presented by the Bozeman Symphony is especially for children ages 3 to 5. Children will be able to listen to Montana Shakespeare in the Parks actor Emma Rather, who will be joined by Bozeman Symphony Bassoonist Sam Macken. The goal of the program is to encourage a love of music, literacy, and discovery. Additional programs are scheduled at the Library on April 10 and June 12. For more information, visit www.bozemansymphony.org or call 406-585-9774.
Time
(Wednesday) 10:15 am - 10:45 am
Location
Bozeman Public Library
626 E. Main St, Bozeman, MT