The (non) alcoholic river:

Green boughs hanging over clear cool water create a tranquil release for people escaping from the sweltering summer heat to float the Boise River. But, despite the relaxing and fun atmosphere the river creates, there are certain dangers lurking behind the pristine image. "Laws and enforcement are in place to protect the people who use and enjoy the river, greenbelt and parks," Lynn Hightower, communications director of the Boise Police Department, said. "Many of these same laws […] also protect a very valuable natural resource, the Boise River." In 2004 and 2005 community meetings took place to discuss Boise River safety. Many of the complaints and safety issues identified were related to excessive alcohol use. As a result, the city made changes to make the river safer for those using it. Changes included better signage to educate floaters on the rules regarding the river and more enforcement of the open container of alcohol ban. A survey conducted in 2006 shows how well these changes worked as a large majority of people were very satisfied with their experience on the river. "People are truly enjoying the river more," Hightower said. "[They] are aware of the rules in place, and understand why the rules and enforcement are needed." However, local attitudes toward alcohol on the river vary. Although many people are aware of the law, they chose to conceal their alcohol while floating the river. University of Idaho graduate Ed Ostron and Boise State student Ashley Cometto float the river every weekend and said they have never seen any fights due to drinking. "Everybody just keeps to themselves and it’s fine," Ostron said. Ostron and Cometto do not view alcohol consumption as a problem on the river and think it should be the responsibility of the person drinking to act appropriately. Boise resident John Wonderlich thinks the drinking ban reduces litter on the river and prompts people to conceal their alcohol more, creating a more family friendly environment. There is a benefit to regulating it, he said, but he doesn’t think alcohol should be totally banned. Even though alcohol is being concealed, police are still awarding violations. According to Hightower, an open container violation is a general misdemeanor, which means the violator must appear in court and fines are then set by the judge. "Today, if you float the river, you likely won’t notice an overwhelming police presence, and that’s how it should be," Hightower said. "The officers and patrols are there watching and available to respond, but citizens are policing themselves by watching the rules and limiting unsafe behavior. "City leaders want the river float to be a safe, enjoyable summer pastime for residents and visitors," she said. "Today, officers who regularly monitor the take out, say the vast majority of floaters tell them that’s exactly what it is."

TABITHA KEILY, RENEE DAVIES AND ROSANNA ANDERSON
Arbiter Staff

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