Beware of Significant Hazards on the Colorado River

The Mesa County Sheriff's Office has issued a warning to residents to be aware of "significant hazards" on the Colorado River downstream from the Blue Heron boat ramp.

The hazard is caused by a series of obstructions including a number of cottonwood trees and a rootball snag.

Those floating on the river in this area are encourage to stay river right as the channel splits. Authorities are concerned people might be motivated to float the channel to the left since it typically doesn't have enough water to accommodate rafters. With current water levels, though, it is possible to float the left channel.

The main current flows between the trees and the debris, and could become even more dangerous as water levels decrease.

I would expect further narrowing of the channel as we saw from yesterday (July 23) to today with the main flow being concentrated toward the strainers." - Deputy Ben Lawrence