Barge Captain Has Road Rage At Stevenson Today.

Nak · Since 19 May 2005 4237 Posts Camas Site Lackey **CGKA Member**

At about 3 - 3:15 today a barge intentionally blocked the Stevenson kite launch today, as well as blocking any sailboats from accessing the Stevenson boat ramp. He pulled up well North of where barges usually run and stopped right in front of the launch for about 20 minutes. Good riders could get around him, but most of the wingers and a few newbie kiters were stuck out. Had someone had a medical issue, it could have been really bad.

Joe The Kiter was giving a lesson on his jet ski and went over to the barge and asked them to please move a bit. The answer was basically no. The barge stayed there until Joe called the Coast Guard from his ski, well within sight of the barge. Only then did they start to move.

The captain was obviously waiting for a slot into the dam locks, but never once has anyone seen a barge wait right there. He was very clearly blocking the launch on purpose.

It was a Tidewater barge and the name of the tug was "The Chief." I plan on calling the Coast Guard and the Port Of Stevenson tomorrow, and complaining about the barge captain intentionally creating a navigational hazard. I encourage as many people as possible to please make the same calls. If this behavior is allowed to become a trend, and possibly get worse, someone is going to die eventually. Please help us put a stop to this now.

The Phone number for the Coast Guard section that has jurisdiction here is 833-769-8724

shred_da_gorge · Mon Sep 23, 24 6:58 am

Maybe revenge for having to 'slam on the brakes' in the corridor last month?

Nak · Mon Sep 23, 24 8:29 am

Probably, that's why I called it Road Rage.

Nak · Mon Sep 23, 24 8:47 am

Appropriate Coast Guard phone number added to the end of the first post. PLEASE call and add your voice to this! Cheers!