KAYAKER PINS ON STRAINER, DROWNS

North Fork , Nooksack River near Maple Falls, WA : July 25, 1994

Gradient 53; Volume 1500 cfs; Classification III-IV

DESCRIPTION: The Nooksack River is a popular roadside run north of the Seattle area. It is small and rocky snowmelt stream, with a few class IV's. The victim was a beginning kayaker, paddling this section with a very experienced friend. They planned to carry the class IV drops and run the rest of the river.

The pair warmup on some small surfing waves. Mr. Goodin flipped and swam, holding onto his boat and paddle. He washed over a ledge into a downed tree which was completely hidden by the drop. He was instantly pinned under a foot of water. His partner, who had swiftwater rescue training, waded out to him with considerable difficulty. He attempted to hold his head up for over an hour before being overcome by the cold water.

SOURCE: John Kuntz, Olympic Outdoors

ANALYSIS: Trees in the river are often hidden from casual view, yet are among the most dangerous hazards a paddler can encounter. This underscores the need for vigilance, especially where the presence of novice paddlers makes swimming likely.