April 27, 2020

April means the seasonal irrigation water is flowing through canals to farms and other irrigation customers throughout Nevada and Placer Counties. Spring also means warmer weather and more people out walking and enjoying the natural beauty of the foothills.

While water from canals is the lifeblood for many local farms, it also can be dangerous for people walking or playing near the canals. The Nevada Irrigation District encourages the community to “Stay Out and Stay Alive,” and with warmer weather trending, asks families to review canal safety:

• Don’t swim or wade in canals — ever!
• Keep a safe distance from the edges of the canals. Canal sides are extremely slick, making it difficult to get out.
• Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing are prohibited.
• Keep pets away from the water and dogs on leashes.
• Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the canal banks.
• Stay away from equipment at water delivery gates.
• Don’t litter or dump trash.
• Never jump in to rescue pets, toys or other objects.
• Call 911 if someone falls in. Do not jump in to try to save them. Reach with a hand or an object, or throw them anything buoyant they can grab.

The COVID-19 virus has kept the community sheltering in place but the time will come when we will all want to get out and enjoy nature, safely and with recommended precautions. NID asks parents to take time to educate your children and use good judgment around the canals and ditches at all times. Be safe – stay out and stay alive.

About NID: The Nevada Irrigation District, a provider of both drinking and irrigation water, manages 28 reservoirs in the Sierras offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, boating, fishing, swimming, etc. At Rollins and Scotts Flat reservoirs, NID provides public parks, trails, campgrounds and beaches for the community’s enjoyment. Higher up in the mountains, NID maintains and operates campgrounds in the Jackson Meadows and Bowman Lake areas. We deliver water for recreation.