Ten fatalities so far this year on Colorado rivers

Snowmelt is well above average this year, and whitewater rafters have been braving the high water levels looking for their next big thrill. Sadly, not everyone makes it back at the end of the day.

There have been ten confirmed rafting fatalities this year — three on the Arkansas River, two each on the Gunnison and Clear Creek Rivers, and one each on the Rio Grande, San Juan, and Poudre Rivers.

The remote nature of many of Colorado’s rivers can make it difficult to keep an accurate count of fatalities. But despite the heavily publicized nature of rafting fatalities, Grant Brown of Colorado Boating Safety says these numbers are typical so far this season.

” It is a big deal, we don’t want any fatalities of course, but again, with it being such an inherently dangerous activity, they do occur. So pick your trips wisely and know your skill level.

2014 was the highest year on record for the Arkansas River with seven deaths. Currently, the river gauges for the Arkansas are below flood stage. This is good news for those living close to the river, but it can be deceiving for those rafting.

The Canon City gauge is still reporting flows at approximately 3800CFS, which is equivalent to 28 thousand gallons per second.

” I just can’t overemphasize that private boaters need to know their limits. That they’ve had experience in this type of water before. That they know the river and the hazards they’d encounter, ” says Rob White, Park Manager of the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. ” And if you’re not an experienced boater then I would recommend you go with a commercial company. Those folks know these water levels. They’re going to put you in a section of the river that’s appropriate for your experience, your age, and skill level.

The Colorado rafting season usually extends through October — there’s plenty of time to enjoy the state’s rivers, but do so safely.