Question: How safe are the rivers for recreational boating and swimming?

Answer: The answer is not very. At least four times this month authorities have been called to pluck someone out of a river. The problem is that both the Mississippi River, which cuts through Sartell and St. Cloud, and the Sauk River, which runs through Stearns County through Waite Park and joins the Mississippi in north St. Cloud, are at or near flood stage. The rivers crested last week. They still have lots of water and are running fast. It also has rained in the past few days. Those rivers are difficult to navigate to begin with, according to Stearns County Sheriff John Sanner.

Sanner answered questions online June 4 about water safety. That was a day after three people were rescued from the Platte River after their john boat capsized. Since that interview, two other groups of boaters have had to be rescued and more rain has fallen. Two people in a canoe fell into the Mississippi on Monday. The St. Cloud Fire Department was called. They were able to get back into the canoe and get to shore. A number of lakes in Stearns County are "no wake zones."

Here is what Sanner said in the online chat:

"Lakes, rivers and streams have exceptionally high water levels right now, not to mention extreme cold water temperatures and current. I would wait until water levels subside and conditions are safer to participate in some water activities. Most importantly, common sense should rule the day and make sure any equipment such as boats, kayaks and canoes are in good working order and stay within your skill level. Also, make sure if you are going to venture out you tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. I cannot over-stress the importance of a good personal flotation device.

On some area lakes, the major concern would be docks, boat lifts and other items that are fully or partially submerged, and on area rivers and streams, the main concern is the swift current."


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