Owning property on the Lower Clackamas River and guiding for eNRG Kayaking and Rafting has given me a front-row seat to everything this river offers — the thrill of whitewater, the quiet beauty of late afternoons, and the joy of introducing thousands of people a year to this special place.
Now that I can swim right out from my house near Riverside Park, I’ve had more time to observe how people use the river on hot days: families picnicking, folks sunbathing on the banks, and swimmers cooling off in the current. Those relaxed summer scenes are part of what makes the Clackamas so beloved — but they also hide real hazards.
Seeing a Risk — and Doing Something About It
Over the last few years I’ve swum around the water intakes at Riverside Park and regularly saw people climbing on and jumping from the concrete intake structures. It’s something that looks fun in the moment but is high-risk and dangerous.
Two years ago, after I heard about an alcohol-related drowning near the intakes, I knew we needed to do more than wish for safer behavior. I reached out to Kim Swan at the Clackamas River Water Providers (CRWP) to see if there was a way to better alert the public about the dangers around the concrete abutments.
Turning an Idea Into Action
Kim connected me with Ray at Clackamas River Water, and momentum started to build. We coordinated with the plant, and soon Dylan and I were using an eNRG raft to access the concrete piers and install concrete anchors for informational signage.
A couple of weeks later I teamed up with Rob, and using a tandem inflatable kayak we were able to get the safety signs in place just in time for the heat of August.
Seeing that message posted — visible reminders that those structures are not safe places to climb or jump — felt like a real win for the river community.
Responsible Recreation and River Stewardship
This project wasn’t about policing anyone’s fun; it was about encouraging responsible recreation.
As a river guide, I teach people safe paddling and respect for moving water every day. At eNRG Kayaking and Rafting we strive to make sure people can enjoy the river while understanding its risks.
Equally important is stewardship: keeping the Clackamas healthy and accessible for future generations. That’s why I support and participate in community efforts like We Love Clean Rivers’ annual Clackamas River Cleanup, organized in partnership with the Clackamas River Basin Council.
Join Us September 12
This year’s cleanup is on September 12, 2026 — a chance to give back, remove debris, and reconnect with the river in a positive way.
Whether you’re a local resident, a frequent paddler, or someone who loves a summer swim, join us and help protect the place that gives so much.
You can sign up here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/2026-down-the-clackamas-river-clean-up-4847666
Small Actions Create Positive Change
Living and working on the Clackamas has taught me that small, practical actions — putting up a sign, launching a kayak to install anchors, showing someone how to read a current — add up.
They save lives, reduce injuries, and foster a culture of care.
If you spend time at Riverside Park this summer, please enjoy the water responsibly, steer clear of the intake structures, and consider joining us in stewardship efforts this September.
The river is for all of us — let’s keep it safe and healthy.
