Wednesday May 24, 2023
Sierra Sun Times —
Madera County Sheriff’s Office officials report that Sheriff Tyson Pogue joins with Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni and Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke who have also issued closures along the San Joaquin River in their respective counties.
Sheriff Pogue believes there is a significant risk to the public who choose to recreate along the San Joaquin River. Sheriff Pogue is issuing an emergency closure on the San Joaquin River from Millerton Lake/Friant Dam south along the River to the Merced County Line.
Recreational activity means any outdoor activity undertaken along the river or on the river for the purpose of exercise, relaxation, or pleasure, including practice or instruction in any such activity. Examples of those activities are fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, diving, and any water sports.
Anyone found on the river during this emergency closure could be arrested for a violation of Entering a Closed Area (Penal Code Section 409.5), a misdemeanor.
Sheriff Pogue said “The river is dynamically changing from day to day. With this emergency closure, we are safeguarding not only the public but our Sheriff’s Deputies, Firefighters and EMS providers from the hazard of getting into the water trying to save someone.”