Small, nonmotorized watercraft are a great way to get close to nature. Our region offers a multitude of ways to get out on the water, from canoeing through Smith and Bybee Wetlands to rafting along the Sandy River at Oxbow Regional Park, and from paddle boarding at Farmington Boat Launch to kayaking on Blue Lake. But however and wherever you decide to get your float on, it's good to remember these basic guidelines for doing so responsibly.
Check your gear before you leave home
Make sure everything is in working order – take care of issues like leaks, broken paddles, or outgrown life jackets before you head out. Also make sure your watercraft and gear are thoroughly cleaned and dried between outings to prevent importing any invasive species into the lake.
Prep in the parking lot
Try to do as much preliminary work – inflating rafts, putting on life jackets, applying sunscreen, etc. – before making it to the water’s edge. Lots of people may be trying to enjoy the water and launch their own watercraft. It’s considered standard courtesy to spend as little time as possible at the launch site so others can also make use of the space. You can put into the lake anywhere at the park except the swim beach.
Life jackets are for everyone
According to Oregon law, sailboats less than 16 feet in length and all paddlecraft (canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, drift boats or rafts, etc.) need to carry a properly fitting US Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket for each person on board and the life jacket must be readily accessible. All children 12 and younger are required to wear a life jacket. But honestly, everyone should wear their life jackets while out on the water. No matter how great a swimmer you are, accidents can happen and during an emergency you may not have time to grab your life jacket from where you stashed it.
Forgot your life jacket? Borrow one for free from one of Metro’s life jacket stations. There’s one right at the top of the swim beach at Blue Lake.
Oregon law also requires all boats under 12 meters long to carry a whistle or air horn. Strap your whistle to your life jacket – now you’re covered!
Respect others on and around the lake
Be aware of other people on the water and try to give them space. When possible, remain 50 feet from the shoreline after launching. Even at that distance, keep an eye out for anglers on the shore so you don’t accidentally get caught by a fishhook. Likewise, stay out of swimming areas to avoid hitting a swimmer.
Respect private property
When you're paddling or sailing at Blue Lake, remember that the docks and houses across the lake belong to private owners. Using them is trespassing.
Respect wildlife
Observe birds, frogs and other animals from a distance – chasing them can scare them. Do not try to feed them, as many human food items are harmful to wildlife.
To learn more:
- The Oregon State Marine Board's website offers lots of information on boating regulations, how to properly clean equipment, and other boating tips.
Visit the OSMB website
- Metro offers safety information specific to the Sandy River on its Oxbow Regional Park web page.
Visit the park page