River Flow Levels

A week and a half ago, I paddled the Sprague River  with Mary and Lee.  Mary had told me to let her know when the water flow was between 600-800  cfs, and I checked in to see it just over 800.  Good enough.  By the time we went the level had dropped, and while the rapids over the rocks only lent us a tap down now and then, a week later, on another paddle, Mary reported that the continuing drop in the water flow resulted in even more bumps on the rocks  in the same areas.  This is a good example to check water levels on a regular basis to determine the passability of a favorite stretch of river.  In the trip reports you will find Mary's listing of various cfs levels and a description of the results in the rapids, as well as the apprearance of features, such as rocks and shelfs that may make the river either  more difficult to travel, or too low for a continuous passage.  Read through and pick out the reports for the Sprague River and you will find an interesting picture of a pleasant river run to try and how it looks at various water levels. 
Another trip report of note is of the Upper Wood River and the changes you will find in the run so far this season.  Rather than spoil the read, just let me ask this question:  "Does anyone have a chainsaw??"   
For your reference, and to check on the river flow levels of a river you are interested in, see 'Oregon River Flows' under Useful Links in the column to the right.
                                                    Have a great paddle!

Kayakers Portable Toilet

In response to Becky's post regarding having to pack out waste, a subscriber sent us to the following BLM page which shows how to make a Kayaker's Portable Toilet.

http://www.blm.gov/or/resources/recreation/rogue/portable-toilets-kayak.php

And now we know what's in that big bag she lugs everywhere.