Posted on FlashAlert: May 21st, 2024 10:44 AM
On Saturday, May 18th at about 3:15 p.m., Lane County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol and Search & Rescue Deputies responded to a water rescue along with Eugene Springfield Fire. The rescue took place on and around the low head dam, a concrete structure in the Willamette River east of I-5 that has formed an enormous log jam.
A total of six people were rescued, including two in shallow water below the dam and one on the dam. None had life jackets, and were floating on inner tubes. Five had gone over the dam into the strainer, while one managed to grab onto a log. Had they gone under the log jam, they likely would not have survived.
Lane County has miles of beautiful water ways and warm spring weather. Please enjoy safely. Wear a life jacket. Scout the river ahead. Check river obstructions before you go. For those floating the Willamette River in the Eugene / Springfield area, be very cautious passing low head dam, to include taking out well before the obstruction to go around it.
View an interactive map of obstructions from the Oregon State Marine Board at oregon-boating-obstructions-geo.hub.arcgis.com.
George Custer lives in Oakridge with his wife Sayre. George is a former smokejumper from his hometown of Cave Junction, a former captain in the U.S. Marine Corps. and ran a construction company in Southern California. George assumed the volunteer duties as the Editor of the Highway 58 Herald in 2022. He loves riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, building all things wood, and playing drums on the weekends in his office.
📣 Support Your Local News Publication: Donate to Highway 58 Herald! 📣
The Highway 58 Herald is your trusted source for all things local, from community events to breaking news. But we need your help to keep delivering the stories that matter most to you. Your generous donation ensures we can continue providing in-depth reporting and vibrant coverage of our community.
Every dollar helps us maintain high-quality journalism and keep you informed. Please consider making a donation today and support the voice of our community. Donate today!
Thank you for helping us keep Highway 58 Herald strong and vibrant!
OFFICE SERVICES AVAILABLE: Copying, Scanning, Emailing & Faxing Services are now available at The Herald’s office in Oakridge.
