Judge Says Jetboat Limits Won’t Revert To 1975 Levels

A federal judge has scuttled conservationists’ immediate hopes for turning back the clock on jetboat limits in the Hells Canyon Natural Recreation Area.

U.S. District Judge James Redden of Portland has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Hells Canyon Preservation Council and other groups.

“Of course, we’re delighted,” said Sandra Mitchell, Hells Canyon Alliance director. The alliance has fought for ample jetboat trips in the canyon during the summer.

The Forest Service this month decided a proposal to limit jetboats in the summer season will stand, despite the alliance’s state tour and a $100,000 media campaign. There would be six or seven no-motor periods each summer.

Redden ruled the suit was premature because the Forest Service still must consider administrative appeals pending against parts of the plan.

He rejected the conservationists’ contention the Forest Service should be forced to regulate jetboat use based on 1975 levels.