Boating restrictions expected on St. Croix
By Mary Divine
[email protected]
Article Last Updated: 04/29/2008 04:17:39 PM CDT
The St. Croix River at Stillwater is expected to reach 683.2 feet above sea level early Wednesday, triggering a no-wake restriction for boats.
The lower speed is needed to minimize shoreline erosion, said Molly Shodeen, area hydrologist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
The restriction, authorized by state rules in Minnesota and Wisconsin, is triggered when the St. Croix reaches 683 feet above sea level at Stillwater.
Wisconsin, Minnesota and National Park Service officials will post signs Wednesday at all public accesses on the St. Croix.
The rule will remain in effect until the water level drops below 683 feet above sea level, Shodeen said
The high water, caused by the spring snow melt and recent rains, also means many islands in the St. Croix will be flooded and unusable for recreational purposes. Shodeen said boaters also should watch for debris floating just below the surface of the river that can pose serious hazards.
Boaters should consult the National Weather Service Web site for the latest updates on current and projected water: weather.gov/ahps.