Boat Oregon Newsletter

Only YOU Can Protect our Waters

We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful place, as Oregon boasts an expansive network of waterways that captivate Oregonians and visitors alike. These incredible resources provide us with many excellent and diverse opportunities for boating. However, it is important to remember that in addition to recreation, these waterways also play an integral role in supporting biodiversity and the overall well-being of our state.

Today we are faced with escalating challenges posed by climate change and increasing human activity. With more people sharing our waterways than ever, and in some cases with less water than has previously been available, our negative impact on these natural areas is growing. To minimize this, we who love our waterways need to embrace environmental stewardship and be aware of the impact we have. If we truly appreciate and love these places, then it is our responsibility to treat them with care and protect them. If we do not, they will not always be there for us to enjoy.

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Stand Up Paddleboarding Creates New Playgrounds Across the Pacific Northwest

Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest-growing activities on rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and even the ocean. No matter your skill level, there is a paddleboard and waterway that will measure up to what you are seeking for recreation. On the same note, no matter your skill level, SUP safety requires additional measures to ensure you are prepared for your paddle.

The leading cause of paddleboarder drownings in Oregon is failure to wear a life jacket in tandem with not wearing a leash. Another cause is not having a quick detach leash when the board or leash gets caught in woody debris known as strainers on moving water. Having the right safety equipment and knowing how to use it is a critical step to staying safe on the water.

• Always wear a USCG-approved and appropriately sized life jacket. Paddler-specific life jackets are in abundance in today’s market, but users must check the label for calm water vs whitewater activity use.
• A sound-signaling device such as a high-decibel whistle should be attached to your life jacket to get the attention of others, whether you’re in distress or to warn others of changing conditions.
• Wear a leash appropriate for the water type. An ankle leash for flat water and a waist or quick detach leash for moving water such as rivers and tidal waterways is recommended.
• Always have a communication device such as a cellular phone or portable VHF radio.

In addition to the right safety equipment, additional preparations should be made prior to your trip.

• Always check the local forecast for wind and tide conditions for your planned paddle timeframe. Sudden changes in wind and currents can turn calm water into extreme risks that require training and experience to safely navigate. This is also the leading contributor to capsizing.
• Know the waterway and collaborate with the local paddling community. There may be hazards, currents, tidal flows, afternoon winds, or local knowledge that will aid in a safe paddle.
• Always paddle with friends and practice self-rescue. Things happen when you least expect it and practicing will make a real situation feel much more natural by preventing panic.
• Make sure your equipment is in good condition. Underinflated SUPs or damaged paddles can cause even experienced paddlers to struggle.

Stand up paddleboarding provides more recreational boating opportunities than any other craft because it can be done by novice users on a lake, but also provides challenges for experienced thrill seekers on whitewater rivers. It has opened many waterways to access never achieved by traditional paddlers. With the growth in popularity, it has also highlighted many inherent risks that often are overlooked. Preparing for your paddle, making good decisions, and checking off the recommendations above will help you have a safe and enjoyable paddle on Oregon’s waterways.

How to Purchase Waterway Access Permits

We sell 7-day, one, and two-year Waterway Access Permits online. Permits are valid for one (or two!) calendar years.
1. Go to Boat.Oregon.gov/store
2. Click Online Services in the upper right-hand corner
3. Click the link for the permit option you want
4. Click Register to create an account and follow the prompts 

Permit sales fund facility and education grants to serve nonmotorized boaters as well as help fund aquatic invasive species boat inspection stations. 

Give feedback during local events or take our online survey

Help Prioritize Boating Access Improvements

With nearly 1,600 boating access sites in the state, we need the recreational boating community’s feedback on the condition and need for boating access improvements statewide. Over the next four months Boating Facilities Program staff will be visiting inland and coastal communities. Watch for other opportunities to meet staff, as events are being finalized. An online survey is also available to provide input.