Know your limits when floating on river

Biggest news this week, of course, was the tragic drowning of a 51-year-old out-of-state woman about two miles south of Polebridge.

Apparently, the woman and her 59-year-old husband started down the river in a two-person inflatable kayak. Somehow, they became entangled in a root wad, which caused the kayak to capsize, allowing the husband to get out of the craft but trapping the woman. Strong water pressure held her under water despite her husband's frantic efforts to free her.

Finally, he bushwhacked the half mile or so to the main road and flagged down a passing car, which transported him to the Home Ranch Store and 911 was called.

Sheriff's deputies and North Valley Rescue responded to the scene, and the woman's body and the kayak were recovered. By all reports, both people were experienced kayakers, were well equipped and both were wearing life jackets. Just another example of the price that Mother Nature can assess when we venture into the out of doors.

Most locals have stored their boats for the winter due to the colder weather, but mostly because the river is so low. From the border to Ford Station is more of a hike than a float for full-size rafts. Kayaks are most often seen now, especially with the unusually warm weather.

Even in July, the North Fork River is considered a relatively easy float, more attractive to fishermen than thrill-seekers. Even so there are dangers.

The river has amazing strength. A human body can be pressed against a rock or log with so much force that it is very difficult to get loose. A boat with someone in it can be held so tightly it cannot be pried loose by one person.

When having an outdoor experience, it is vital to be very, very cautious, and even then the unexpected can happen.

Life jackets are obvious safety devices, but the most important thing, in my opinion, is the boat operator. It is extremely important to know the river. Even then, my first float of the year is slow and careful to account for changes made during spring run-off. New channels, leaning trees, changes in log jams and new sweepers all change the river every year. With Mother Nature, it never pays to become overconfident.

Always stay away from log jams, watch down river for new obstacles and learn to "read" the river ahead. Since I am now a senior citizen, I do not venture out on the river until it is crystal clear (usually early July) and only rarely after Labor Day (too cold). I no longer have the strength or stamina I used to have if I am involved in an emergency.

I guess that's my final advice. Know your own limitations when going out into the back country. What do you think?