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All Boaters At Mammoth Cave National Park Need PFDs

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Published Date

May 17, 2017

All boaters on the Green and Nolin rivers in Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky are now required by the National Park Service to wear personal floatation devices/NPS

Mammoth Cave National Park Superintendent Sarah Craighead has announced that all river users in the park will have to wear personal flotation devices at all times when on the Green River or Nolin River.

Additionally, floodplain camping will be restricted to the upper stretches of Green River in the park.

“The rivers are changing following the breach and removal of Lock and Dam 6,” said Superintendent Craighead. “River banks are slumping, causing trees to fall into the river. In some places the current is more swift than in the past. It will take time for the rivers to find their new normal. For the safety of our visitors we will require life vests to be worn at all times while on the rivers in the park.”

The changing river conditions have caused park staff to initiate new river use guidance:

  • River access is available at Dennison Ferry and Green River Ferry.
  • No river floodplain or island camping is permitted on Nolin River, nor on Green River below Turnhole Bend.
  • Be alert for fallen trees, submerged trees and rocks, and drifting debris.
  • Alert the Green River Ferry operator as you approach by water, or before you launch from land.
  • River use is discouraged when the river level measures over 10 feet at Green River Ferry. At that level, canoe liveries are not permitted to launch canoes and kayaks.

Plan ahead and prepare for your trip:

  • Tell a friend your trip plans, including your expected return time.
  • Use dry bags to protect personal items.
  • Practice Leave No Trace principles – pack out your trash.
  • Do not rely on your cell phone – service in the park is unreliable.

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