Muskingum River Boating Update; May 17, 2013

Well, it looks to be a pretty nice weekend for boating, maybe a stray shower or two but that is to be expected this time of year here in Southeastern Ohio. Can't imagine that the possibility of a shower would hold back a river boater.

The River is looking better every day, it is running exceptionally clean for this time of year. The water level has been on a study decline all this week. Below are the gauge readings for Zanesville, McConnelsville, and Marietta as of 4:00 pm today 5/17/13.

• Zanesville Lock = 10.08 ft. ( not 100% accurate as the gauge needs replaced)
• McConnelesville Lock = 3.58 ft.
• Marietta (Mouth of the Muskingum) = 16.08

These readings are just a couple of feet above "Normal Pool" if there is such a thing. the forecast is for the mighty Muskingum to continue to drop, another 8 - 10" next week.

So boaters get those boats in the water and do some boating. The "Sand Bars" just below the Philo Lock are looking good, other than they need some boats beached on them, the volley ball net needs some attention, normal start of the boating season stuff. The locks are open and the channel markers are out, below is a photo of the markers at the lower end of the sand bars.

The only thing missing in this photo are boats with boaters aboard enjoying the river. If your boat is not ready this weekend would be a great time to take care of that. Work on the boat Saturday, play on the boat Sunday? Maybe take a boat trip through one of the locks and get your lock pass for the season if you haven't already done so. Sounds like a good plan if you can put that grass mowing and those other chores that will still be there after the boating. Hope to see you all on the river soon.

Boat often, Boat safe.

As always your questions and comments are encouraged and appreciated.