DCNR plans whitewater release into Tohickon Creek

This weekend whitewater boating enthusiasts will once again converge on Bucks County’s Tohickon Creek when the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources releases water from Lake Nockamixon into Tohickon Creek.

Releases are historically scheduled on a semi-annual basis, usually occurring on the third weekend in March and the first weekend in November. The whitewater releases from the Nockamixon State Park dam provide suitable whitewater boating conditions downstream through Ralph Stover State Park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Water releases will begin at 4 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. The release consisting of millions of gallons of water moving down the waterway will create whitewater conditions at Ralph Stover State Park. Suggested hours for viewing the release and boating activity are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ralph Stover.

Water releases are eagerly awaited by whitewater paddling enthusiasts, drawing skilled kayakers, canoeists, and occasional rafters from throughout the Northeastern United States. Most launch their craft at Ralph Stover State Park, near Pipersville, and travel some 4 miles along the Tohickon Creek to its junction with the Delaware River at Point Pleasant.

DCNR officials remind boaters that this is technical whitewater with Class 3 and 4 rapids that require boating skills. Boaters should be aware of and abide by the safety code of the American Whitewater Affiliation. Boaters must wear appropriate personal flotation devices; take appropriate precautions to prevent hypothermia; and use only craft designed for this type of water.

For information, contact Nockamixon State Park at 215-529-7300, or Delaware Canal State Park at 610-982-5560.