Saturday, July 1, 2017 - A Long Exploratory River Float.......
Editor's Note: The following was not an announced ARC float but a scouting trip by a few dedicated volunteers to determine if a long stretch of the Big Ark could be divided into one-day float segments.
Mark Flynn
Mark Flynn, Lindsborg
There is an 18 mile stretch from the Mt. Hope road river bridge over the Arkansas River extending to the Ridge road river bridge that has seldom been paddled by the Arkansas River Coalition members in recent years. This 18 miles segment is considered too lengthy for newer and less experienced paddlers involved with ARC river floats to undertake.
On Saturday, July 1st, 8 experienced paddlers (Bob, Donna, Randy, Ray, Rick, Mark, Dan and Vince) were the paddlers undertaking this longer river course. One of the goals was to determine if this long river route can be divided into one or two shorter routes for future Arkansas River Coalition river floats.
A cloudless, sunny day and nice weather, with temperature in the high 80s and a helpful cooling southeast breeze in our faces, made for an enjoyable time. The Arkansas River in that stretch had a good water flow of around 450 cubic feet per second (CFS) with a welcomed current flow.
The wildlife was abundant along this river course. Several of us spotted deer splashing across the river......predominately young deer and even twin fawns. Also observed were a lot of different birds that made this section of the river their home.
Other folks were on or near the river on this holiday weekend. We saw a couple of men who had parked their kayaks on a sandbar and were looking for rocks, arrowheads and other treasures. At the Bentley-Halstead road bridge, 4 people were launching a canoe and a kayak from a very rocky high bank on the southeast side of the bridge. This appears to be the only useable launch site at the bridge.
On the lower half of our river journey, we paddled by a long (3/4 mile) island in the river that had a cabin on it and a bridge over the narrower south channel allowing access to the island. 4 of the paddlers chose to paddle the narrow south channel and enjoyed the intimacy of the tall, close-in vegetation and bird life.
After lunch on a sandbar and paddling almost 18 miles in about 6 hours time, we had a successful landing at the northeast side and underneath the Ridge Rd. bridge.
Our findings regarding splitting the 18 miles down to two shorter float courses:
>>> One could launch at the Mt. Hope bridge and paddle the 10 miles to the Bentley-Halstead bridge, with knowledge
that there would be a fairly rough landing and takeout point.
>>> Also. one could launch at the Bentley-Halstead road bridge and paddle down to the Ridge road bridge, a length of
about 8 miles.
>>> A recommended 350 CFS of water, as measured at the Hutchinson river gauge (located at the Haven road bridge), is
suggested as the minimum water flow for ease of paddling this stretch.
Submitted by Vince Marshall
On Saturday, July 1st, 8 experienced paddlers (Bob, Donna, Randy, Ray, Rick, Mark, Dan and Vince) were the paddlers undertaking this longer river course. One of the goals was to determine if this long river route can be divided into one or two shorter routes for future Arkansas River Coalition river floats.
A cloudless, sunny day and nice weather, with temperature in the high 80s and a helpful cooling southeast breeze in our faces, made for an enjoyable time. The Arkansas River in that stretch had a good water flow of around 450 cubic feet per second (CFS) with a welcomed current flow.
The wildlife was abundant along this river course. Several of us spotted deer splashing across the river......predominately young deer and even twin fawns. Also observed were a lot of different birds that made this section of the river their home.
Other folks were on or near the river on this holiday weekend. We saw a couple of men who had parked their kayaks on a sandbar and were looking for rocks, arrowheads and other treasures. At the Bentley-Halstead road bridge, 4 people were launching a canoe and a kayak from a very rocky high bank on the southeast side of the bridge. This appears to be the only useable launch site at the bridge.
On the lower half of our river journey, we paddled by a long (3/4 mile) island in the river that had a cabin on it and a bridge over the narrower south channel allowing access to the island. 4 of the paddlers chose to paddle the narrow south channel and enjoyed the intimacy of the tall, close-in vegetation and bird life.
After lunch on a sandbar and paddling almost 18 miles in about 6 hours time, we had a successful landing at the northeast side and underneath the Ridge Rd. bridge.
Our findings regarding splitting the 18 miles down to two shorter float courses:
>>> One could launch at the Mt. Hope bridge and paddle the 10 miles to the Bentley-Halstead bridge, with knowledge
that there would be a fairly rough landing and takeout point.
>>> Also. one could launch at the Bentley-Halstead road bridge and paddle down to the Ridge road bridge, a length of
about 8 miles.
>>> A recommended 350 CFS of water, as measured at the Hutchinson river gauge (located at the Haven road bridge), is
suggested as the minimum water flow for ease of paddling this stretch.
Submitted by Vince Marshall
December 2016: New Boat Ramp Dedication
The new boat ramp at Cowtown in Wichita was dedicated on Friday afternoon, December 2, 2016. Arkansas River Coalition Board members and other ARC members were joined by Wichita City dignitaries to officially dedicate the new boat ramp.
A new sign was installed at the ramp in time for the dedication.
On the ARC Facebook page Hoyt Hillman wrote:
"The project on park land along the river took two years to complete with donations of materials from Kansas Building
Products, Andale Ready Mix, and the Sedgwick County Maintenance Yard with engineering design by Brent Thomas
of Ruggles and Bohm. Arkansas River Coalition Volunteer were assisted by the Wichita Storm Water Crew on
completion of the project in late September.
The ramp is the latest of the Wichita Park and Recreation network of river front services bringing increased public
access for recreational opportunities."
Thanks to Hoyt for spearheading this project and getting the work done over a two-year span. And thanks to the City, the donors of materials and those who volunteered their time to see this project to completion.
The ramp is located on the east bank of the Big Arkansas River just downstream from the Cowtown Visitor Center. Go west on Museum Blvd. just south of the Wichita Art Museum and watch for the parking lot on your left (next to the river.) Either the first or second access road after the museum will get you there.
22 September 2016
I wish to personally thank the many ARC volunteers that came out to help with this project.
We will be sending individual letters of Thanks and tax credits to the many participating companies.
Our expenses were minimal and opportunities for Wichitans to enjoy the Ark are now greater!
Thanks!
Hoyt Hillman
Thanks to Play Day volunteers
21 September, 2016
Play Day Volunteers,
Thank you, thank you, thank you Bob Ciski, Donna Froese, Greg Goulden, Fred Graus, Randy Harris, Mark Hughes, Bobbi Ivy, Kim Martinez, Vince Marshall, Jim Mason, Holger Meyer and daughters Rana & Naomi, Roger Norton, Rick Rhodenbaugh and Brad Tull (with my apology to anyone I may have missed) for making the Play Day canoe/kayak event a big success.
Your efforts kept 19 solo kayaks, three tandem kayaks and a canoe occupied, sometimes all at once, by happy paddlers. The perfect late summer weather attracted a large Play Day attendance and 309 tickets for rides were issued (100 per hour) in all.
Thanks again,
Wally Seibel
ARC coordinator for Play Day
Note from the website administrator:
My apologies for not posting information about the Play Day event prior to its occurrence. Due to my being without a functioning computer for about ten days, I was not aware of Play Day being scheduled and could not have updated the website in any event.
Play Day Volunteers,
Thank you, thank you, thank you Bob Ciski, Donna Froese, Greg Goulden, Fred Graus, Randy Harris, Mark Hughes, Bobbi Ivy, Kim Martinez, Vince Marshall, Jim Mason, Holger Meyer and daughters Rana & Naomi, Roger Norton, Rick Rhodenbaugh and Brad Tull (with my apology to anyone I may have missed) for making the Play Day canoe/kayak event a big success.
Your efforts kept 19 solo kayaks, three tandem kayaks and a canoe occupied, sometimes all at once, by happy paddlers. The perfect late summer weather attracted a large Play Day attendance and 309 tickets for rides were issued (100 per hour) in all.
Thanks again,
Wally Seibel
ARC coordinator for Play Day
Note from the website administrator:
My apologies for not posting information about the Play Day event prior to its occurrence. Due to my being without a functioning computer for about ten days, I was not aware of Play Day being scheduled and could not have updated the website in any event.
Improvements at the South Alden Bridge River Access Site
Vince Marshall had a chance to meet Royce Mattson, a landowner in the Alden, KS area on a recent Arkansas River Coalition float. Mattson has continued
to provide land near the Arkansas River for a river access site that the
Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism had developed in the past.
Mr. Mattson told Vince that he was recently making improvements in
conjunction with Wildlife and Parks and encouraged him to check out the
site.
Here's a list of the following improvements that Vince observed: (see
photos)
--a new sign identifying the access site
--large sanded parking area recently graded and lined with perimeter rocks
--a convenient trash container in the parking area
--nice gentle sloping access path to a level sand beach along the river
--large rocks & post barriers to keep ATVs from encroaching onto the
river banks
Mattson is rightfully proud of the improvements and he is to be
commended for his contribution in continually supporting river access.
Draft of revised ordinance for Arkansas River use within Wichita city limits
Comment period has ended
Comment period has ended
First Published in the Wichita Eagle on 5/31/2016
ORDINANCE NO.50-265
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 9.29.030, 9.29.060, 9.29.080, 9,.29.090, 9.29.100, 9.29.110, 9.29.140, 9.29.150, 9.29.170 9.29.180, 9.29.200, 9.29.230, 9.29.250, 9.29.260, 9.29.280, 9.29.390 AND 9.29.400; CREATING SECTIONS 9.29.035, 9.29.175, 9.29.235, 9.29.255 AND 9.29.265; AND REPEALING SECTIONS 9.29.040, 9.29.050, 9.29.070, 9.29.100, 9.29.290, 9.29.300, 9.29.310, 9.29.320, 9.29.330, 9.29.340, 9.29.350, 9.29.360, 9.29.370 AND 9.29.380 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF WICHITA, KANSAS, PERTAINING TO REGULATIONS FOR USE OF THE BIG ARKANSAS RIVER AND BANK AREA.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF WICHITA, KANSAS:
SECTION 1. Section 9.29.030 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows: “Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter, the following words and phrases used herein shall have the following meanings unless otherwise clearly indicated by the context:
(a) "Water craft or “Watercraft" means any boat or vessel designed for water travel, including, but not limited to any row boat, canoe, kayak, standup paddle board, power boat or motor boat, paddle boat, sail craft or boat of any type, and includes personal watercraft and air boats.
(b) "Power boat" or “Motor boat” means any water craft powered by a combustible engine or electric motor or machinery or any kind, whether or not such machinery is the principal source of propulsion.
(c) "Personal watercraft" means those watercraft including, but not limited to, jet skis, water bikes, wave runners, wave jammers, and other similar one or two person watercraft being propelled or powered by machinery.
(d) “Director” means the Director of the Department of Park and Recreation or the Director’s designated representative.
(e) “Inflatable floatation device” means an inner tube or other water recreational form or apparatus that is inflated with air or foam and is non-navigable. This term includes inflatable or foam chaise loungers, air mattresses and other inflatable or foam devices.
(f) “Operate” means to navigate or otherwise use a watercraft of any kind.
(g) “Operator” means a person who is in actual physical control of any watercraft upon the river or while docking.
(h) “Swim” means to swim, stand, wade or be in the river or use the river for any recreational purpose.”
SECTION 2. Section 9.29.035 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Power boats, motor boats and personal watercraft prohibited upon the Big Arkansas River without permission. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a power boat, motor boat or personal watercraft upon the Big Arkansas River at any point within the city limits of the City of Wichita, Kansas without prior written approval from the Director of Park and Recreation.
(b) Upon obtaining written approval of the Director, any operation of a power boat, motor boat or personal watercraft upon the Big Arkansas River and shall be subject to terms and
conditions as set forth in the Wichita City Park Guidelines for Boating and any additional rules and regulations as may be established by said Director. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a watercraft upon the Big Arkansas River with written permission from the Director but in violation of the provisions set forth in the Wichita City Park Guidelines for Boating, or in violation of any other rule or regulation established by the Director.”
SECTION 3. Section 9.29.060 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Lincoln Street dam, watercraft prohibited, exceptions. It is unlawful for any water craft operating in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area to come within one hundred fifty feet of the Lincoln Street dam, however canoes and kayaks are allowed in the safe boat passage. Swimming and use of any inflatable floatation device is strictly prohibited in the boat passage.”
SECTION 4. Section 9.29.080 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers. Unless prior written approval has been obtained from the Director, it is unlawful for any person to operate a water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area within 50 (fifty) feet of the "falls" area at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers, within 50 (fifty) feet of the fire pots at the foot of The Keeper of The Plains sculpture, or upon the Little Arkansas River between the "falls" area and the Central Avenue. ”
SECTION 5. Section 9.29.090 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Prohibited during festivals. Unless a permit or the prior written approval of the Director is obtained, all unauthorized water craft and watercraft activities are prohibited in or upon any portion or portions of the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area on days during which the same or portion thereof is being used for community events, special functions, ceremonies or festivals sanctioned by the City or by the Department of Water Resources of the State of Kansas.
SECTION 6. Section 9.29.110 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas shall read as follows:
“Boats for hire—Soliciting. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation operating a water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area for hire, or who accepts a fee, donation, contribution or remuneration of any kind to solicit, pick up or discharge passengers from property under the ownership, jurisdiction or control of the City or the Board of Park Commissioners of the City without written permission from the Director.”
SECTION 7. Section 9.29.140 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Tying -Where prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to tie a water craft of any type to any tree located upon property under the ownership, jurisdiction or control of the City or the Board of Park Commissioners of the City, and no person shall drive stakes on such property for the purpose of tying or anchoring any water craft. The tying of any type of water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area shall be limited to designated areas which are so marked. No person shall tie or anchor any type of water craft beneath any bridge crossing the Big Arkansas River or within the park system of the City, including A. Price Woodard Parks (East
and West near the Douglas Street bridge), unless permission is obtained in writing from the city Director.”
SECTION 8. Section 9.29.150 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Speed limits. It is unlawful for any person to operate any water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area at a speed greater than forty miles per hour except authorized in writing by the Director. In no case shall power boats operate in excess of five (5) miles per hour when passing beneath any bridge located within the area between the Lincoln Street dam and the Seneca Street bridge. No water craft shall operate in excess of five (5) miles per hour when operating between the Kellogg Avenue overpass/bridge and the Lewis Street bridge, nor between the Douglas Street bridge and the First Street bridge.”
SECTION 9. Section 9.29.170 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Riding prohibited when, exceptions. It is unlawful for any person to ride, or permit another to ride on any elevated decks or gunnels of any water craft operating in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area unless prior written authorization has been obtained from the Director.”
SECTION 10. Section 9.29.175 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is unlawful for any person to operate or attempt to operate any watercraft located in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Areas while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any combination of alcohol and any drug or drugs to a degree that renders the person incapable of safely operating a watercraft. Any violation of this section shall be subject to the definitions and provisions set forth in K.S.A. 32-1130, K.S.A. 32-1131 and K.S.A. 32-1138, and any amendments thereto, and any violator shall be subject to the penalties set forth therein.”
SECTION 11. Section 9.29.180 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Intoxicated persons. It is unlawful for any person to ride in any water craft located in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area while such person is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs or any combination thereof to a degree that renders the person incapable of safely riding within or upon such water craft.”
SECTION 12. Section 9.29.200 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Authorized loading at ramps, courtesy docks and loading areas. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to use property along the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area that is under the ownership, jurisdiction or control of the City or the Board of Park Commissioners of the City for the purpose of loading or unloading power boats, or water craft of any type which requires the use of a hauling trailer, or for the purpose of loading or unloading equipment, operators or passengers at any place other than the authorized and designated ramps, courtesy docks and loading areas, except by written consent of the city Director.”
SECTION 13. Section 9.29.230 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Throwing objects. It is unlawful for any person to throw any object from the bank, any bridge or water craft located in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area unless prior
written approval has been obtained from the Director. Casting a fishing line or use of a safety rope shall not be considered as throwing an object.”
SECTION 14. Section 9.29.235 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Jumping from bridges - Prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to jump or dive or otherwise throw themselves from any bridge that crosses the Big Arkansas River.”
SECTION 15. Section 9.29.250 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Placement of buoys—Where prohibited. The placement of buoys or floating markers of any description in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area by any organization, person, firm or corporation is strictly prohibited, except by written consent of the Director.”
SECTION 16. Section 9.29.255 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Abandoned watercraft – Removal. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to abandon a watercraft in, upon or sunk in the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area without the prior written consent of the Director. Abandoned watercraft may be removed by a law enforcement officer when any of the conditions exist as set forth in K.S.A. 32-1156(c), and any amendment thereto.
(b) If none of the conditions exist as set forth in subsection (a) herein, and the ownership of the abandoned or sunken watercraft can be ascertained, the owner shall be given written notice to remove the abandoned or sunken watercraft within 10 business days from the date of the notice. Notice shall be deemed sufficient if given to the owner personally or sent by United States mail. Any owner so notified who has not removed the abandoned or sunken watercraft shall be liable to the City for all costs incurred by its removal and for any subsequent storage fees. If the owner fails to claim the abandoned or sunken watercraft after its removal from the river by the City, the watercraft may be disposed of as set forth in K.S.A. 32-1157 and amendments thereto.”
SECTION 17. Section 9.29.260 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
Dangerous Water Conditions – Authority to close river. In the event that the Director of the Department of Park and Recreation determines the presence of certain conditions make navigation and other activities in, upon and around the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area significantly dangerous to the public, the Director is authorized to issue an order closing the river to the public. In making such a determination the Director may consult with and gather input from the Chief of Police, the Fire Chief, the Director of the Department of Public Works any other necessary City staff. Conditions that will be considered significantly dangerous to the public can include, but are not limited to, high water levels, swift currents, the presence of debris in the river and along the river bank and the presence of harmful bacteria that impacts water quality. The Director shall close all public boat ramps and all water craft and all water craft activities in and upon the river are prohibited during such times the ramps are closed. The Director’s order shall be disseminated to all local news media and all such other available means as are necessary may be utilized to inform the public by announcement of such order. All boat ramps providing public access to the river shall be posted and physical barricades may be used to block access to such ramps. Recession of the Director’s order shall be publicly announced in the local media and all postings and barriers shall be removed.”
SECTION 18. Section 9.29.265 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Violation of Dangerous Water Conditions order – Unlawful, exceptions. (a) It is unlawful for any person to enter into or to operate any water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area during any time an order that has been issued by the Director closing the river due to dangerous water conditions is in effect.
(b) This provision shall not apply to authorized emergency personnel in the performance of their official duties.
(c) Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punished as set forth in Section 9.29.390 of this Chapter.”
SECTION 19. Section 9.29.280 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Fishing—where prohibited, Bowfishing prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to attempt to capture, kill, or otherwise obtain fish from the Big Arkansas River within the city limits by any means while such person is on the Kellogg Avenue overpass/bridge, Lewis Street bridge, Douglas Street bridge, First Street railroad bridge or First Street bridge. It is unlawful for any person to attempt to capture, kill or otherwise obtain fish from the Big Arkansas River by any means while said person is an occupant of any watercraft placed on or within the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area between the Lincoln Street dam and the 2nd Street Bridge. Bowfishing is prohibited in or upon all parts of the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area within the city limits of the City of Wichita.”
SECTION 20. Section 9.29.390 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Violation and penalty. It is a misdemeanor for any person to knowingly and willfully violate any provision of this chapter. Every person who is convicted of violating the provision of this chapter may be punished by a fine of not more than $500.”
SECTION 21. Section 9.29.400 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Written consent – Procedure. Whenever the written approval, consent or permission of the Director of Park and Recreation is required either as a condition precedent to an action taken or to exempt a person from any of the provisions of this chapter, the same shall be obtained by submitting a request for such consent in writing to the Department of Park and Recreation. Such request shall be submitted at least 2 business days in advance for recreational use of the river and 30 days in advance for special events. A request for written consent of the Director under this chapter shall be subject to the provisions set forth in subsections (a) and (c) of Section 9.03.080 and Sections 9.03.090 through 9.03.190 of this Code, pertaining to the provisions governing the issuance of park permits, including the standards for issuance and the process for appealing the denial thereof. Additionally, any written consent or permission required to be obtain from or granted by the Director may be obtained from or granted by a designated representative of the Director, unless this chapter expressly provides otherwise.
Any written consent issued or provided pursuant to this chapter shall be valid only for the date, time and duration and for the purpose(s) specifically set forth within the written consent and shall further be subject to an administrative fee to be set and collected by the Department of Park and Recreation. In the Director’s discretion, approval may be given for a duration of up to one (1) year at a time for recurring activities.”
SECTION 22. The originals of Sections 9.29.030, 9.29.040, 9.29.050, 9.29.060, 9.29.070, 9.29.080, 9.29.090, 9.29.100, 9.29.110, 9.29.140, 9.29.150, 9.29.170, 9.29.180, 9.29.200, 9.29.230, 9.29.250, 9.29.260, 9.29.280, 9.29.290, 9.29.300, 9.29.310, 9.29.320, 9.29.330, 9.29.340, 9.29.350, 9.29.360, 9.29.370, 9.29.380, 9.29.390 and 9.29.400, of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas, are hereby repealed.
SECTION 23. This ordinance shall be included in the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas, and shall be effective upon its passage and publication once in the official city paper.
PASSED by the governing body of the City of Wichita, Kansas, this ________ day of
_________________, 2016.
__________________________________________
Jeff Longwell, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
Karen Sublett, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
______________________________
Jennifer Magaña
Director of Law and City Attorney
ORDINANCE NO.50-265
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 9.29.030, 9.29.060, 9.29.080, 9,.29.090, 9.29.100, 9.29.110, 9.29.140, 9.29.150, 9.29.170 9.29.180, 9.29.200, 9.29.230, 9.29.250, 9.29.260, 9.29.280, 9.29.390 AND 9.29.400; CREATING SECTIONS 9.29.035, 9.29.175, 9.29.235, 9.29.255 AND 9.29.265; AND REPEALING SECTIONS 9.29.040, 9.29.050, 9.29.070, 9.29.100, 9.29.290, 9.29.300, 9.29.310, 9.29.320, 9.29.330, 9.29.340, 9.29.350, 9.29.360, 9.29.370 AND 9.29.380 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF WICHITA, KANSAS, PERTAINING TO REGULATIONS FOR USE OF THE BIG ARKANSAS RIVER AND BANK AREA.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF WICHITA, KANSAS:
SECTION 1. Section 9.29.030 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows: “Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter, the following words and phrases used herein shall have the following meanings unless otherwise clearly indicated by the context:
(a) "Water craft or “Watercraft" means any boat or vessel designed for water travel, including, but not limited to any row boat, canoe, kayak, standup paddle board, power boat or motor boat, paddle boat, sail craft or boat of any type, and includes personal watercraft and air boats.
(b) "Power boat" or “Motor boat” means any water craft powered by a combustible engine or electric motor or machinery or any kind, whether or not such machinery is the principal source of propulsion.
(c) "Personal watercraft" means those watercraft including, but not limited to, jet skis, water bikes, wave runners, wave jammers, and other similar one or two person watercraft being propelled or powered by machinery.
(d) “Director” means the Director of the Department of Park and Recreation or the Director’s designated representative.
(e) “Inflatable floatation device” means an inner tube or other water recreational form or apparatus that is inflated with air or foam and is non-navigable. This term includes inflatable or foam chaise loungers, air mattresses and other inflatable or foam devices.
(f) “Operate” means to navigate or otherwise use a watercraft of any kind.
(g) “Operator” means a person who is in actual physical control of any watercraft upon the river or while docking.
(h) “Swim” means to swim, stand, wade or be in the river or use the river for any recreational purpose.”
SECTION 2. Section 9.29.035 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Power boats, motor boats and personal watercraft prohibited upon the Big Arkansas River without permission. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a power boat, motor boat or personal watercraft upon the Big Arkansas River at any point within the city limits of the City of Wichita, Kansas without prior written approval from the Director of Park and Recreation.
(b) Upon obtaining written approval of the Director, any operation of a power boat, motor boat or personal watercraft upon the Big Arkansas River and shall be subject to terms and
conditions as set forth in the Wichita City Park Guidelines for Boating and any additional rules and regulations as may be established by said Director. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a watercraft upon the Big Arkansas River with written permission from the Director but in violation of the provisions set forth in the Wichita City Park Guidelines for Boating, or in violation of any other rule or regulation established by the Director.”
SECTION 3. Section 9.29.060 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Lincoln Street dam, watercraft prohibited, exceptions. It is unlawful for any water craft operating in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area to come within one hundred fifty feet of the Lincoln Street dam, however canoes and kayaks are allowed in the safe boat passage. Swimming and use of any inflatable floatation device is strictly prohibited in the boat passage.”
SECTION 4. Section 9.29.080 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers. Unless prior written approval has been obtained from the Director, it is unlawful for any person to operate a water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area within 50 (fifty) feet of the "falls" area at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers, within 50 (fifty) feet of the fire pots at the foot of The Keeper of The Plains sculpture, or upon the Little Arkansas River between the "falls" area and the Central Avenue. ”
SECTION 5. Section 9.29.090 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Prohibited during festivals. Unless a permit or the prior written approval of the Director is obtained, all unauthorized water craft and watercraft activities are prohibited in or upon any portion or portions of the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area on days during which the same or portion thereof is being used for community events, special functions, ceremonies or festivals sanctioned by the City or by the Department of Water Resources of the State of Kansas.
SECTION 6. Section 9.29.110 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas shall read as follows:
“Boats for hire—Soliciting. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation operating a water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area for hire, or who accepts a fee, donation, contribution or remuneration of any kind to solicit, pick up or discharge passengers from property under the ownership, jurisdiction or control of the City or the Board of Park Commissioners of the City without written permission from the Director.”
SECTION 7. Section 9.29.140 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Tying -Where prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to tie a water craft of any type to any tree located upon property under the ownership, jurisdiction or control of the City or the Board of Park Commissioners of the City, and no person shall drive stakes on such property for the purpose of tying or anchoring any water craft. The tying of any type of water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area shall be limited to designated areas which are so marked. No person shall tie or anchor any type of water craft beneath any bridge crossing the Big Arkansas River or within the park system of the City, including A. Price Woodard Parks (East
and West near the Douglas Street bridge), unless permission is obtained in writing from the city Director.”
SECTION 8. Section 9.29.150 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Speed limits. It is unlawful for any person to operate any water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area at a speed greater than forty miles per hour except authorized in writing by the Director. In no case shall power boats operate in excess of five (5) miles per hour when passing beneath any bridge located within the area between the Lincoln Street dam and the Seneca Street bridge. No water craft shall operate in excess of five (5) miles per hour when operating between the Kellogg Avenue overpass/bridge and the Lewis Street bridge, nor between the Douglas Street bridge and the First Street bridge.”
SECTION 9. Section 9.29.170 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Riding prohibited when, exceptions. It is unlawful for any person to ride, or permit another to ride on any elevated decks or gunnels of any water craft operating in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area unless prior written authorization has been obtained from the Director.”
SECTION 10. Section 9.29.175 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is unlawful for any person to operate or attempt to operate any watercraft located in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Areas while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any combination of alcohol and any drug or drugs to a degree that renders the person incapable of safely operating a watercraft. Any violation of this section shall be subject to the definitions and provisions set forth in K.S.A. 32-1130, K.S.A. 32-1131 and K.S.A. 32-1138, and any amendments thereto, and any violator shall be subject to the penalties set forth therein.”
SECTION 11. Section 9.29.180 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Intoxicated persons. It is unlawful for any person to ride in any water craft located in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area while such person is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs or any combination thereof to a degree that renders the person incapable of safely riding within or upon such water craft.”
SECTION 12. Section 9.29.200 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Authorized loading at ramps, courtesy docks and loading areas. It is unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to use property along the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area that is under the ownership, jurisdiction or control of the City or the Board of Park Commissioners of the City for the purpose of loading or unloading power boats, or water craft of any type which requires the use of a hauling trailer, or for the purpose of loading or unloading equipment, operators or passengers at any place other than the authorized and designated ramps, courtesy docks and loading areas, except by written consent of the city Director.”
SECTION 13. Section 9.29.230 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Throwing objects. It is unlawful for any person to throw any object from the bank, any bridge or water craft located in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area unless prior
written approval has been obtained from the Director. Casting a fishing line or use of a safety rope shall not be considered as throwing an object.”
SECTION 14. Section 9.29.235 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Jumping from bridges - Prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to jump or dive or otherwise throw themselves from any bridge that crosses the Big Arkansas River.”
SECTION 15. Section 9.29.250 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Placement of buoys—Where prohibited. The placement of buoys or floating markers of any description in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area by any organization, person, firm or corporation is strictly prohibited, except by written consent of the Director.”
SECTION 16. Section 9.29.255 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Abandoned watercraft – Removal. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to abandon a watercraft in, upon or sunk in the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area without the prior written consent of the Director. Abandoned watercraft may be removed by a law enforcement officer when any of the conditions exist as set forth in K.S.A. 32-1156(c), and any amendment thereto.
(b) If none of the conditions exist as set forth in subsection (a) herein, and the ownership of the abandoned or sunken watercraft can be ascertained, the owner shall be given written notice to remove the abandoned or sunken watercraft within 10 business days from the date of the notice. Notice shall be deemed sufficient if given to the owner personally or sent by United States mail. Any owner so notified who has not removed the abandoned or sunken watercraft shall be liable to the City for all costs incurred by its removal and for any subsequent storage fees. If the owner fails to claim the abandoned or sunken watercraft after its removal from the river by the City, the watercraft may be disposed of as set forth in K.S.A. 32-1157 and amendments thereto.”
SECTION 17. Section 9.29.260 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
Dangerous Water Conditions – Authority to close river. In the event that the Director of the Department of Park and Recreation determines the presence of certain conditions make navigation and other activities in, upon and around the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area significantly dangerous to the public, the Director is authorized to issue an order closing the river to the public. In making such a determination the Director may consult with and gather input from the Chief of Police, the Fire Chief, the Director of the Department of Public Works any other necessary City staff. Conditions that will be considered significantly dangerous to the public can include, but are not limited to, high water levels, swift currents, the presence of debris in the river and along the river bank and the presence of harmful bacteria that impacts water quality. The Director shall close all public boat ramps and all water craft and all water craft activities in and upon the river are prohibited during such times the ramps are closed. The Director’s order shall be disseminated to all local news media and all such other available means as are necessary may be utilized to inform the public by announcement of such order. All boat ramps providing public access to the river shall be posted and physical barricades may be used to block access to such ramps. Recession of the Director’s order shall be publicly announced in the local media and all postings and barriers shall be removed.”
SECTION 18. Section 9.29.265 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby created to read as follows:
“Violation of Dangerous Water Conditions order – Unlawful, exceptions. (a) It is unlawful for any person to enter into or to operate any water craft in or upon the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area during any time an order that has been issued by the Director closing the river due to dangerous water conditions is in effect.
(b) This provision shall not apply to authorized emergency personnel in the performance of their official duties.
(c) Any person violating any of the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punished as set forth in Section 9.29.390 of this Chapter.”
SECTION 19. Section 9.29.280 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Fishing—where prohibited, Bowfishing prohibited. It is unlawful for any person to attempt to capture, kill, or otherwise obtain fish from the Big Arkansas River within the city limits by any means while such person is on the Kellogg Avenue overpass/bridge, Lewis Street bridge, Douglas Street bridge, First Street railroad bridge or First Street bridge. It is unlawful for any person to attempt to capture, kill or otherwise obtain fish from the Big Arkansas River by any means while said person is an occupant of any watercraft placed on or within the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area between the Lincoln Street dam and the 2nd Street Bridge. Bowfishing is prohibited in or upon all parts of the Big Arkansas River and Bank Area within the city limits of the City of Wichita.”
SECTION 20. Section 9.29.390 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Violation and penalty. It is a misdemeanor for any person to knowingly and willfully violate any provision of this chapter. Every person who is convicted of violating the provision of this chapter may be punished by a fine of not more than $500.”
SECTION 21. Section 9.29.400 of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Written consent – Procedure. Whenever the written approval, consent or permission of the Director of Park and Recreation is required either as a condition precedent to an action taken or to exempt a person from any of the provisions of this chapter, the same shall be obtained by submitting a request for such consent in writing to the Department of Park and Recreation. Such request shall be submitted at least 2 business days in advance for recreational use of the river and 30 days in advance for special events. A request for written consent of the Director under this chapter shall be subject to the provisions set forth in subsections (a) and (c) of Section 9.03.080 and Sections 9.03.090 through 9.03.190 of this Code, pertaining to the provisions governing the issuance of park permits, including the standards for issuance and the process for appealing the denial thereof. Additionally, any written consent or permission required to be obtain from or granted by the Director may be obtained from or granted by a designated representative of the Director, unless this chapter expressly provides otherwise.
Any written consent issued or provided pursuant to this chapter shall be valid only for the date, time and duration and for the purpose(s) specifically set forth within the written consent and shall further be subject to an administrative fee to be set and collected by the Department of Park and Recreation. In the Director’s discretion, approval may be given for a duration of up to one (1) year at a time for recurring activities.”
SECTION 22. The originals of Sections 9.29.030, 9.29.040, 9.29.050, 9.29.060, 9.29.070, 9.29.080, 9.29.090, 9.29.100, 9.29.110, 9.29.140, 9.29.150, 9.29.170, 9.29.180, 9.29.200, 9.29.230, 9.29.250, 9.29.260, 9.29.280, 9.29.290, 9.29.300, 9.29.310, 9.29.320, 9.29.330, 9.29.340, 9.29.350, 9.29.360, 9.29.370, 9.29.380, 9.29.390 and 9.29.400, of the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas, are hereby repealed.
SECTION 23. This ordinance shall be included in the Code of the City of Wichita, Kansas, and shall be effective upon its passage and publication once in the official city paper.
PASSED by the governing body of the City of Wichita, Kansas, this ________ day of
_________________, 2016.
__________________________________________
Jeff Longwell, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
Karen Sublett, City Clerk
Approved as to Form:
______________________________
Jennifer Magaña
Director of Law and City Attorney
National River Trail Designation
U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell and National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis On June 3 announced the designation of six local and state National Recreation Trails, adding more than 350 miles to the National Trails System, and three National Water Trails, adding more than 600 miles to the National Water Trails System.
“By designating these new National Trails, we recognize the efforts of local communities to provide outdoor recreational opportunities that can be enjoyed by everyone,” said Jewell. “Our world-class network of national trails provides easily accessible places to enjoy exercise and connect with nature in both urban and rural areas while also boosting tourism and supporting economic opportunities in local communities across the country.”
Arkansas River Water Trail
The Arkansas River Water Trail provides 192 miles of scenic water trail and riverside wildlife habitat from Great Bend, Kansas to the Kansas-Oklahoma border. The trail provides recreational paddling, fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities via 22 existing access sites as it meanders through the expansive prairie and rich farmland, passing many cities and small towns along its way.
To see the announcement from Interior, go to:
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/secretary-jewell-national-park-service-director-jarvis-announce-new-national
Kudos to Jessica Mounts of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. We have her to thank for this. She put in untold hours and effort to bring this singular honor to the Arkansas River and to South Central Kansas.
“By designating these new National Trails, we recognize the efforts of local communities to provide outdoor recreational opportunities that can be enjoyed by everyone,” said Jewell. “Our world-class network of national trails provides easily accessible places to enjoy exercise and connect with nature in both urban and rural areas while also boosting tourism and supporting economic opportunities in local communities across the country.”
Arkansas River Water Trail
The Arkansas River Water Trail provides 192 miles of scenic water trail and riverside wildlife habitat from Great Bend, Kansas to the Kansas-Oklahoma border. The trail provides recreational paddling, fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities via 22 existing access sites as it meanders through the expansive prairie and rich farmland, passing many cities and small towns along its way.
To see the announcement from Interior, go to:
https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/secretary-jewell-national-park-service-director-jarvis-announce-new-national
Kudos to Jessica Mounts of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. We have her to thank for this. She put in untold hours and effort to bring this singular honor to the Arkansas River and to South Central Kansas.
Thank You
On behalf of the Arkansas River Coalition, I would like to express my gratitude to the adults and especially to the kids who spent a Saturday morning on November 17 helping clean the riverbanks between the red footbridge and the Seneca bridge. Because of the number of participants (22) we were able to clean both sides of the river. This was the largest Fall clean up participation ARC has ever had and at 29 bags and two TVs, this was the most clutter ever collected. Thank you very much for participating.
Russ Icke
President of the Board
Russ Icke
President of the Board
The Story Behind the Tall 'Reeds' Shown in the Photograph.......
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October 2015 In the photograph of Jeanne paddling on the Arkansas River below Sterling, one can see an interesting plant that is rapidly spreading along the banks of that upper river area. It grows in rather spectacular 'walls' of tall reeds lining the river that one can paddle between. This wetland plant is called Phragmites australis, or 'common reed', that can grow from 8 to over 12 feet high in a dense stand and is long-lived. The common reed is very invasive and has spread from the eastern states along the Atlantic Coast to areas in the Midwest. One of the problems caused by dense stands of Phragmites is that wildlife cannot easily move through its jungle-like barrier and it spreads rapidly. Its rapid growth and spread is an alarming invasion of the environment. Phragmites is hard to eradicate as the managers of the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area can attest to. It spreads both by seeds and by means of stolons (above-ground runners), and rhizomes (below ground). This writer observed some of the Phragmites' above-ground runners that extended over 20 feet long on a sandbar located along the Arkansas River in the Sterling area. He also has spotted some common reeds in small clumps below Wichita along the river. .........submitted by Vince Marshall |
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Facebook Page for Kayakers
October 18 at 9:59am · Wichita, KS Posted on the Ark River Coalition FB page:
Deb Brinegar is starting a new facebook page for kayaking in and around Wichita. We want to share any kayak pictures or adventures with anyone that's interested. We're trying to make a page similar to Church of the Double-Bladed Paddle, which has a very active membership. If anyone wants to join, let Deb know.
Church of the Double-Bladed Paddle
October 18 at 9:59am · Wichita, KS Posted on the Ark River Coalition FB page:
Deb Brinegar is starting a new facebook page for kayaking in and around Wichita. We want to share any kayak pictures or adventures with anyone that's interested. We're trying to make a page similar to Church of the Double-Bladed Paddle, which has a very active membership. If anyone wants to join, let Deb know.
Church of the Double-Bladed Paddle
Photos from a paddling clinic session
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June 20, 2015 Kayak Clinic (morning session) Four adults and five children with Roger Norton and Fred Graus of the Kansas Canoe and Kayak Association and Wally Seibel of the Arkansas River Coalition as instructors. |
