Use only the Spit or the Hook: Hood River Access Spots
Kiteboard Access Port of Hood River Waterfront: "low is a press release to clarify the Commission's position after all of the discussion and input last week. Thanks to everyone and the kiteboard community for participating in this discussion regarding a difficult issue. Please believe that ALL of it was carefully listened to and considered and it is very appreciated. We will continue to study/address the access/safety issues related to kiteboarding and other water based recreation and strive to work together so that all of our waterfront users can have fun and be safe.
Port of Hood River affirms kiteboard policy
After meeting last week with its Waterfront Recreation Committee and discussing options with nearly two-dozen kiteboarders present – at a meeting prompted by Columbia River access that has become difficult due to temporary high water – the Port of Hood River has affirmed its policy of allowing kiteboard launching only at two designated sites, the Spit and the Hook.
Temporary kiteboard launching at other Port sites, including Port Marina Park, were explored at length. Problems with any of the short-term sites are many and complicated, especially with increased use by families and visitors, says Sherry Bohn, Port Commission president. Safety is the key reason, and the high potential for an accident involving a non-kiter, she adds.
“While we recognize and understand what the high water has done to the kiteboard schools and kiteboard launch area, the Commission is not changing its policy at this time and will continue to limit the sport to the designated areas at the Spit and the Hook,” Bohn explains.
Bohn says safety to all users of the waterfront is key to that decision. The Port’s policy does not allow the mixed use of kiteboarding and other water-based recreation, whether passive or active, due to safety and liability issues. Because of the large space required for launching and landing of kites the Port has and will continue to limit kiteboarding only on the "
Port of Hood River affirms kiteboard policy
After meeting last week with its Waterfront Recreation Committee and discussing options with nearly two-dozen kiteboarders present – at a meeting prompted by Columbia River access that has become difficult due to temporary high water – the Port of Hood River has affirmed its policy of allowing kiteboard launching only at two designated sites, the Spit and the Hook.
Temporary kiteboard launching at other Port sites, including Port Marina Park, were explored at length. Problems with any of the short-term sites are many and complicated, especially with increased use by families and visitors, says Sherry Bohn, Port Commission president. Safety is the key reason, and the high potential for an accident involving a non-kiter, she adds.
“While we recognize and understand what the high water has done to the kiteboard schools and kiteboard launch area, the Commission is not changing its policy at this time and will continue to limit the sport to the designated areas at the Spit and the Hook,” Bohn explains.
Bohn says safety to all users of the waterfront is key to that decision. The Port’s policy does not allow the mixed use of kiteboarding and other water-based recreation, whether passive or active, due to safety and liability issues. Because of the large space required for launching and landing of kites the Port has and will continue to limit kiteboarding only on the "
Labels: accidents
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