I always carry rescue gear including a throw rope. It has been a while since I have carried a Type IV, but since at one time I did, I have about 4 around the shop. Might be a good time to re-break them out! I have never been popped for not having one, but I always have my tossbag on my thwart or around my waist. Labels still legible.
What concerns me way more than this, is this phrase: LAW: Carry and affix to the vessel, a container or bag suitable for containing refuse, waste and trash materials and capable of being securely closed.
To me, this means ANY kind of waste, refuse especially including that of the human variety. With the apparent unprecedented mobs on the water this year, I would think this would be of utmost concern. Yet this has not been mentioned.
Since the response I am following here doesn't mention any Throwable type rescue device, but only refers to the waste law, I have no problem mentioning this. Every last real boater I know carries throwable rescue ropes/gear and certainly observes and is in favor of the glass, koozie, cooler lashing, etc. laws that are in effect. While this is very important, it is time that we, as Boaters, take the reins and push for more.
Not only will I avoid one of my Fave places during Tourista season (sadly), but for the first few Fall runoffs as well. I sure won't swim in the river like I always have in the first Fall Run. Or I may head down and photo record all the mines on all the gravel bars. Would make a sorry counterpoint to the awesome "Buffalo Flows" video. But we can't turn our backs. I have seen way too many negative posts here regarding the Buffalo and other rivers and I couldn't mention anyone on this hugely populated Board that is not concerned. We move, or we lose. The "cathole" theory is way outdated and no way does it have any merit in today's circumstances on the Buffalo. Even if every last one of the over population observed it.
"All that is necessary for evil to succeed is for good men to do nothing ..."
That goes for this, the landowner issues at Fishers (sorry Painterbob, but I went there a ton when I lived in Fayettenam), and the fact that our Gulf Coast is trashed.
I have shot emails, letters, everything that I could think of at the time to do, but I am only One.
Whew! That was one heck of a rant! I wasn't even finished, but I'll try not to take myself so seriously!!!
And just so there are no hard feelings...? A Pretty Happy Photo!
