Is It
Safe To Row? Current Water Level of
the James
Click on Sculler
OPEN OR CLOSED?
Before going to the linked website, please understand that the Club rarely formally opens or closes, but must depend on your own evaluation of conditions—you are assuming the risks, as to whether or not it is safe to row. Happily, everyone has exercised a good deal of care and caution as set forth below:SAFETY RULES:
First, don’t row alone. Have a buddy on the water at the same time, keeping each other in sight. We provide monthly up-dated rosters so that you can contact members and schedule rows. Generally, folks row from 6:00 AM-7:15 AM and 5: 00PM-6:30 PM, M-F, and then throughout the weekend.
Second, always sign in and out of the log book when you row.
Third, make sure you know the water conditions by checking the Water Conditions site of the USGS internet site below.
And finally, make sure that you have a bow light or a "blinkie " light attached to you or the back of your ballcap if you launch before or at dawn or an hour or less before sunset. Bowlights are available from Potomac Rowing, on-line, or a clip- on "blinkie" is available from bicycle shops or Target’s bicycle department.
WATER CONDITIONS: Even more than wind and tide, the water flow—current and level most effect rowing. Our rule of thumb is that a level of over 6 feet as measured at the Westham Gauge, is going to seriously challenge novice scullers, and over 7 feet will be very difficult if not dangerous for all, except for experienced 4s. Another rule of thumb is that a stream flow of > 10,000 (ft³/s) will present a dangerous current. Because conditions will vary according to tide, wind, and your own abilities, you must be and you assume the role of judging for and assuming your own safety.
We hope to see you on the river!