CdA River boat launch closed for firefighting efforts

WATERSPORTS — Record low flows in the North Fork Coeur d’Alene River combined with the high fire danger have prompted authorities to close a boat access to allow firefighters to have sure access to water.

The Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District is reserving the use of the boat launching site across from Road 602 and just above Shoshone Base Camp for the Prichard-Murray Fire Department and the Forest Service in case there is an urgent need to access water for fire suppression operations.

The low flows have reduced the options the firefighters have for pumping water into it’s water tender tanks.

The boat launch site and the road leading to the site will be closed for administrative use until the fire danger is lower.

Forest Service officials issued this announcement:

Forest conditions on the Idaho Panhandle NF are among the driest ever seen at this time of year and forest visitors are urged to exercise extreme caution with any source of heat of fire in the forest. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect for all of north Idaho restricting campfires only to developed, designated campgrounds with metal fire rings, and restricting smoking to enclosed vehicles or areas cleared of vegetation.

For more information on fire restrictions please visit the Idaho Panhandle NF website or contact your local Forest Service office .