Coast Guard to Police Boat Races on Columbia and Snake Rivers
Published Date: 5/28/2026
Rule
Summary
From May 30 to August 8, 2026, the Coast Guard will enforce special rules on parts of the Columbia and Snake Rivers to keep everyone safe during cool events like boat races and swims. If you’re boating in these areas, you’ll need to follow instructions from Coast Guard patrols or risk being stopped. These rules help protect people and property but don’t cost you anything extra—just a little patience and attention to timing!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Enforcement Dates and Events
The Coast Guard will enforce special local regulations from May 30, 2026, through August 8, 2026 for listed marine events: Spring Testing Hydroplane races on May 30, 2026 (8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.) in Kennewick, WA; Rose Fest Dragon Boat Races on June 6–7, 2026 (7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) in Portland, OR; and Swim the Snake on August 8, 2026 (11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.) in Perry, WA.
Follow Patrol Commander Directions
If you are operating a vessel in the regulated areas during enforcement periods, you must follow lawful directions from the Patrol Commander or any official patrol vessel; vessels may be stopped or denied transit without approval from the Patrol Commander.
Transit Allowed at No-Wake Speed
Vessels permitted to transit the regulated areas during enforcement periods must operate at a no-wake speed and in a manner that will not endanger event participants or other craft.
No Anchoring/Loitering Near Events
Spectator vessels and other boats shall not anchor, block, loiter, or impede event participants or official patrol vessels in the regulated areas during the effective dates and times unless authorized by an official patrol vessel.
How Enforcement Will Be Announced
The Coast Guard will provide notification of these enforcement periods via the Local Notice to Mariners and marine information broadcasts in addition to this Federal Register notice.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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