Coast Guard Tweaks Columbia River Event Safety Rules
Published Date: 5/5/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Coast Guard is updating rules for special marine events on the Columbia River to keep everyone safe. They’re removing one inactive event and tweaking details for several races and swims. If you’re boating there, you’ll need permission to enter these areas during events, so watch for new dates and stay clear unless authorized—no extra fees, just safer waters!
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 5 costs, 0 mixed.
You must get COTP permission to enter
If you are on the Columbia River in the Captain of the Port Zone during a listed event, you may not enter the regulated area unless you obtain permission from the Captain of the Port (COTP) or their designated representative. The Coast Guard will enforce these temporary closures during event periods and will issue Broadcast Notices to Mariners on VHF FM channel 16 so vessels can adjust transit plans.
Regulated area extended 75 yards at Kennewick
For the Spring Testing Hydroplane Races and Kennewick Hydroplane Races, the regulated area near Columbia Park in Kennewick, WA is changed to commence 75 yards east (downriver) of the Interstate 395 Bridge and continue upriver approximately 2.0 miles to the northern end of Wade Island. Vessels in that expanded strip will need COTP authorization during events.
Richland Regatta date window changed
The Richland Regatta Hydroplane Races date language is changed from the 'Second Weekend in June' to 'One weekend in June.' Boaters and local businesses should watch for the specific weekend announced each year.
Columbia Crossing Swim timing changed
The Columbia Crossing Swim in Pasco, WA is changed from the 'First Saturday after Labor Day Weekend' to 'One day in September.' Boaters should note the event may occur on a single September day rather than tied to Labor Day timing.
Cross‑channel swim renamed, moved, and rescheduled
The event formerly called the 'Roy Webster Cross Channel Swim' is renamed 'Columbia River Cross Channel Swim,' its date window is changed from 'Annually on Labor Day' to 'One day in August or September,' and its location is moved from Hood River, OR (Columbia River between River Mile 169 and 170) to Cascade Locks, OR (Columbia River between River Mile 149 and 150). Boaters near those river miles should expect different managed closures.
The Big Float event removed from rules
The Big Float (group inner-tube float) event is being removed from the regulations due to its extended period of inactivity. Events listed below it in the table will have their numbering updated to reflect its removal.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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