Boulder County Sheriff’s Office to close Boulder Creek to tubers

The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office notified residents that Boulder Creek is closed to tubing, effective at 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

According to a release, Boulder Creek will be closed to tubing and single chamber flotation devices  from below Boulder Falls at Colo. 119 to 55th Street in Boulder.

The closure will remain in place until water flow reduces to a level that is deemed to be safer for single chamber flotation devices, according to the release.

Sheriff’s deputies will be posting notices and advising residents and visitors of the closure. According to the release, Boulder Creek was flowing at around 701 cubic feet per second on Wednesday and is expected to increase as temperatures rise.

Spring run-off and the normal scheduled release of water from Barker Reservoir will cause the creek water flow to rise, increasing risks to people recreating and first responders performing water rescues. Increased risks which are present during higher water flows include cold water temperatures, floating debris and obstructions in the water which can snag a person.

There is a specific exemption for kayaks and white-water canoes, which are permitted, according to the release. However, kayakers are strongly encouraged to exercise caution and wear personal protection equipment including a life jacket, wet or dry suit, and a helmet.

If you are recreating on a waterway that is not impacted by the closure or using an exempted watercraft, officers advised to be aware that the water conditions still may not be safe for your skill and comfort level.

The sheriff is authorized to close waterways under Colorado Revised Statute 33-13-110(2)(c).

According to the release, violations of the closure are a civil infraction and will result in a $100 fine.

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