Oroville Whitewater Study

Department of Water Resources to shed light on proposed Whitewater Park

The California Department of Water Resources will present the first report on the proposed whitewater park on February 18 at 3 p.m. at the Oroville City Council Chambers.

The proposed whitewater park is part of the agreement between American Whitewater and various government and non-government organizations. Along with the $250,000 study to research the possibility of building a whitewater park below Lake Oroville.

A Whitewater Park in Butte County is likely to increase tourism, aid the economy and highlight Butte County as a major player in outdoor recreation. Also, potential flows of 6,000 cfs and courses up to several miles in length are possible at some of the site locations. 

“This is the type of drought resistant industry that this county needs,” said California Stewardship Director Dave Steindorf. “Currently DWR is spending huge sums extending boat ramps into the bowels of Lake Oroville.   It just seems that we should be looking to other opportunities that are not tied to the level of the Lake.”

This meeting gives Butte County residents and others who are interested an opportunity to come and show support for the proposed Whitewater Park and learn the particulars. American Whitewater needs local boaters, recreation enthusiasts and business people to attend the meeting and contribute to the planning and improvement of their community river access. The project is meant to enhance the recreation community of Butte County and preserve the local environment.

The meeting will cover a wide range of topics including background on existing whitewater parks, the study in Butte County, recreation options and accessibility. The feasibility study will explain which sites have been examined and the details associated with each; a major area of interest for local boaters.

American Whitewater encourages all community members to attend the meeting and get involved in the future of Butte County rivers and lakes.