River may go down, or it may not

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By Stephanie Smith

Summary

Runoff could compensate for the lowering of the Snake River so hydrologists can began filling Brownlee Reservoir.

Story Published: May 15, 2008 at 10:42 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 6:51 PM PST

ASOTIN - Idaho Power hydrologists began filling Brownlee Reservoir late Tuesday night. And that could cause lower river levels and possible hazards for boaters

"It's up a little bit now,” said Asotin County Sheriff Ken Bancroft on Wednesday. “When I went upriver and it's a little bit up because of the runoff and because of the rain and snow melting. Who knows, it could level out to what it normally is or it might go down."

Just like you keep your eyes on the road, Bancroft says to keep your eyes on the river.

"One of the things you need to watch for on the river with all the runoff is there is going to be a lot of branches and other debris floating down from the creeks and rivers from up stream. So keep an eye out for that, don't puncture your boat."

Bancroft said to know the channels and take your time when you are traveling the river. And most importantly always wear a life jacket.

"Over 68 percent of the people that died in boating accidents last year, died from not having their life jackets on," he said.

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