I just got off the upper Klick this afternoon. I'd like to give everyone a quick heads up on the run.

Most of the debris from this weekends recovery efforts has been removed. There is still a raft broached on a log (River Left) about 3 miles above the fish hatchery. I would not recommend attempting to remove it just yet. There is another very dangerous strainer just down stream, and a slip could prove fatal. Also, it serves as a good "warning" for the nasty log that it's splatted on. We'll get it later.

The site of last weekend's accident is still very dangerous. We marked it as best we could with some caution tape. It is roughly 3.5 miles above the fish hatchery. There is an impressive and beautiful basalt cliff on the left, with an island drop just past it. There are some non hazardous logs on the up stream side of this island. One of the most visible logs has been marked with 3 bands of yellow caution tape. At this point, ALL RAFTS MUST GO RIVER LEFT. The right looks good; however, it is very dangerous and deceptive. Good class 4 kayakers should have little problem with either channel. But go left anyway just to be safe.

The accident that happened last Saturday was a terrible blow to the entire river community. We have all suffered a huge loss. I found myself saying to many people the last few days: That if I had come across an accident like this one, Jeff Driver would have been the FIRST person I would have called for assistance. I'll miss his friendship, his knowledge, and his contagious respect for the river.

I would appreciate this information being passed on to any and all that might be running the Upper Klickitat in the near future. Especially private and commercial rafters.

Let's all have a great time paddling this spring, and remember those who have passed.

Thanks for your time.

Brandon Backman
River Ranger
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
541-308-1729
541-806-0105

P.S. If anyone would like to help out Jeff's family, the best way right now would be to make a donation toward the costs of Jeff's funeral. Please contact Gardner Funeral Home if you would like to help. Thanks.

Gardner Funeral Home Inc
1270 N Main
(509) 493-1323
Fax: (509) 493-4229