The coming Independence Day holiday weekend is shaping up to be one of the biggest boating celebrations of the decade and while weather and water conditions are favorable visitors need to practice safety and avoid situations that could ruin the holiday.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC), and local law enforcement will have a strong presence on waterways through the weekend and their message is to enjoy the holiday while also following the law and staying safe.
The latest lake level readings from the Corps shows Lake Norfork is about 4 feet high and Bull Shoals about 3 feet high due to recent heavy rains. Luckily the rains were not heavy enough to move large amounts of debris into the waterways but boaters need to stay aware of floating logs and trash that create hazards for boaters and swimmers. In some areas, rising water may submerge picnic tables, grills and parking lots, making parts of the shoreline unsafe or inaccessible…