New Rules for Motorized Boating on Oregon’s Upper Rogue River

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. — Proposed new rules that restrict motorized boating on the Upper Rogue River in Jackson County have been approved in principle by the Oregon State Marine Board.

The Rules Follow Safety and Congestion Complaints

The rules focus on protecting non-motorized boaters following complaints of congestion and safety concerns.

At a meeting earlier this week, the board tackled the problem of safety measures and user access before formulating the following rules:

Boats powered by motors of more than 10 horsepower are not allowed on the Rogue River between Fishers Ferry and Lost Creek Dam.

However, boats with motors exceeding 10 horsepower will be allowed on the stretch between Fishers Ferry and Dodge Bridge County Park between May 8 and September 10.

Charter boats will not be allowed to operate more than 300 trips annually on the Rogue River upstream of the Table Rock Road bridge.

Operators of charter boats are only allowed on the water between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The board also decided to stop charter boats from operating upstream of Rattlesnake Rapids.

At its meeting, the Oregon State Marine Board examined data that shows it is the interactions of different boat users and not motorized boats per se that significantly contribute to congestion and safety issues on the Rogue River.

The rules will become effective after another public hearing and consultations with tribal nations in January 2025.