Boaters urged to use caution with many state lakes low

While reservoirs in eastern Kansas are holding water at normal levels, drought conditions across much of the rest of the state require that boaters be especially cautious.

Large reservoirs in northcentral and northwest Kansas range from five to 25 feet low, and continued irrigation and dry conditions will worsen without substantial rainfall.

As a result, hazards such as tree stumps, old bridge frames, road beds, buildings or rock ledges are now closer to the surface.

Under these conditions, boaters should keep an eye out for hazards because it is not possible to mark each one with a buoy. The most common boating-related claim reported to insurance companies is lower-end hull damage.

Striking an underwater object can cause a boater to lose control. At this point, passengers or the operator could be ejected. In some cases, loss of control results in an accident with another boat.

Bottom line is, it’s the boater’s responsibility to watch for hazards, no matter what the water conditions.