High water levels impacting weekend recreation on the Illinois River

High water levels on the Illinois River are impacting folks looking to enjoy recreational activities like floating this weekend.

Tubing Plans Disrupted

Many people gathered by the water today, looking forward to tubing. However, the Grand River Dam Authority announced that private float permits would not be sold today or tomorrow due to elevated river conditions.

River Levels on the Rise

The Illinois River near Tahlequah reached above 9 feet Friday afternoon and is expected to go up even higher this weekend.

GRDA emphasizes that while the river remains open, safety is their top priority, which is why commercial float operators have stopped services for the time being.

Local Business Struggles

Austin Spears, co-owner of Arrowhead Resort, shares, “This is what people come to do here. They come to float the rafts and kayaks.” He expresses that it’s been a rough season for businesses along the river.

Economic Impact of Mother Nature

Due to the unpredictable weather, Spears mentions, “June has been a struggle. We’re approximately down 6,000 to 7,000 people. I’m sure the other businesses are affected just like we are, but you know, it’s Mother Nature. You win some, you lose some, so you just kind of roll with what you've got and keep on going.”

Encouragement for Visitors

Spears acknowledges that customers aren’t thrilled about not being able to float down the river but encourages those still coming out to enjoy the resort.

“We still got people coming, and they are aware of the river situation. We communicate with them to let them know they can still come, but they may just not be able to float. We’re just hoping that the river goes down quickly.”