Boaters Rescued in Cataract Canyon Incident Highlighting Safety Concerns
MOAB, Utah — A trip intended to explore urgent issues facing boaters in Cataract Canyon turned into a dramatic rescue operation on May 11, when a staff member for Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, became trapped on the Colorado River. The crew, including Larry Ellertson and two others, faced peril while navigating the challenging “Big Drop 3” rapid, becoming lodged between boulders.
Sgt. Jeff Arbon, piloting the boat, reported that the rapid’s tricky alignment caused the mishap. Efforts to liberate the stranded vessel by a nearby rafting company were unsuccessful, prompting the Utah Department of Public Safety to deploy a helicopter for the rescue. Passengers were safely transported to shore while Sgt. Arbon remained with the boat for two days until it could be freed by deflating one of its tubes.
In light of the incident, which underscores the pressing need for safer boat takeouts in the area—stemming from decreased Lake Powell levels—Sen. Curtis’ office emphasized the importance of improved infrastructure. They expressed gratitude for the rescue operation and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing river safety measures in collaboration with natural resource officials.
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