[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”ce4db8ec-b34b-42ae-b247-103d0a13f28d” background_image=”https:\/\/www.emnrd.nm.gov\/spd\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/Elephant-Butte-5-15-dm-18-scaled.jpg” background_position=”center” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”1d9c0f5d-35f2-480d-b415-624f9e38b5a0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ module_class=”vertical-align” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_post_title meta=”off” featured_image=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” title_text_color=”#030303″ custom_margin=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_post_title][et_pb_dmb_breadcrumbs font_icon=”%%20%%” use_home_icon=”off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_color=”#030303″ body_font_size=”18px” link_text_color=”#030303″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_dmb_breadcrumbs][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ specialty=”on” module_class_1=”sidebar” disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” inner_width=”90%” inner_max_width=”1400px” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_blurb title=”Explore Section” use_icon=”on” font_icon=”||divi||400″ icon_color=”#ffffff” icon_placement=”left” image_icon_width=”14px” content_max_width=”100%” disabled_on=”off|off|on” module_class=”blurb-icon-right sidebar-toggle” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”c520cd6f-2a5a-44ab-ba51-0c6b314ff487″ header_font=”|600|||||||” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font_size=”13px” header_line_height=”1.3em” body_font=”||||||||” body_text_color=”rgba(40,39,40,0.7)” body_font_size=”12px” body_line_height=”1.3em” background_color=”#1D4784″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_direction=”145deg” background_color_gradient_stops=”#1d4784 0%|#0585a5 100%” background_color_gradient_start=”#1d4784″ background_color_gradient_end=”#0585a5″ max_width=”100%” module_alignment=”center” custom_margin=”||14px||false|false” custom_padding=”12px|4px|12px|16px|true|false” border_radii=”on|6px|6px|6px|6px” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#dedede” icon_font_size=”14px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_blurb][et_pb_sidebar area=”et_pb_widget_area_3″ module_class=”sofia-light nav-side” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_color=”#212121″ body_font_size=”15px” body_line_height=”1em” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_sidebar][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ specialty_columns=”3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
New Mexico offers a range of paddlesports opportunities, from adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting to mellow river floats. New Mexico\u2019s small mountain lakes are popular with paddlers all summer long. In fall the larger reservoirs become quieter, calmer, and less crowded.<\/p>\n
Some canoeists and kayakers find paddling is an excellent way to fish or view wildlife. Others enjoy camping with their boats. And some have even been known to enjoy the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta from the Rio Grande.<\/p>\n
New Mexico\u2019s lakes and rivers require different skills, preparation, and safety equipment for paddlers.<\/strong> We recommend you take courses to learn the laws, emergency procedures, navigation rules, and paddling techniques\u2014all of which will enhance your paddling experience.<\/p>\n Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, inner tubes, and any other watercraft capable of being used for transportation on the water are subject to state boating laws and regulations. You are urged to boat responsibly to prevent accidents, minimize impacts, and avoid conflicts with other boaters. The following guidelines will help you prepare before you head out on your paddling adventure.<\/p>\n Know the laws and keep yourself and others safe. Take a course to increase your knowledge of paddle sports safety, emergency procedures, and navigational rules. You can join workshops offered at local swimming pools and parks departments, community colleges, and military recreation centers. Group outings are organized by the American Canoe Association, the Adobe Whitewater Club of New Mexico, and various internet meetup groups.\u00a0 Many commercial outfitters and free online courses are also available.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Carry the essentials for safety, emergency communications, and comfort. At a minimum, state law requires you to carry and wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, a paddle or oar, and a sound-producing device such as a whistle or horn\u2014even on a paddleboard.<\/p>\n In addition to items required by law, you should wear sun protection and bring a headlamp with extra batteries, first aid kit, knife, dry bag, hydrating fluids, and a throw rope. Remember that many lakes and rivers are in remote areas where cell phones do not always work. Other essentials depend on your vessel, the lake or river, and the length of trip and should be researched in advance.<\/p>\n Check the weather frequently before and during your trip, keeping an eye on current conditions. Check river flows and lake conditions, weather warnings, and forecasts. It is important to understand how these elements affect your ability to operate your vessel. Seek information from locals in the know, heed warnings, and avoid unsafe areas. Anticipate changes and go to shore when rough weather threatens.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Although New Mexico is a desert state, the water can be quite cold. Many lakes are fed by melting snow. Several rivers are located downstream of large dams that release cold water from deep below the lake\u2019s surface.<\/p>\n Always dress for the temperature of the water\u2014even on a hot day. The biggest risk after an accidental fall overboard is not hypothermia but cold-water shock. Sudden immersion in cold water can trigger the \u201cgasp\u201d reflex. When a person\u2019s head is underwater, the \u201cgasp\u201d reflex causes water to enter the lungs. Cold water shock is a major contributor to the death of New Mexico boaters who entered the water unprepared. Paddlecraft have a higher risk of capsizing and swamping. Be prepared and always wear a life jacket\u2014it is the law!<\/p>\n Paddlecraft sit low on the water, making them difficult for other boaters to see. Paddle to be seen: Wear bright neon and contrasting colors, put highly reflective tape on paddles, use a flagpole, and carry a bright light at night.<\/p>\n Study your intended route before you head out and let someone know your plans. Include names of everyone going, a description of your vessel, put-in and take-out locations and waypoints along with the approximate time the group should arrive at each, what time you are returning, and what to do if you do not return when expected. Estimate travel time generously. Make this a routine every time you go out on the water.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Situational awareness is key to safety on the water. \u00a0That means always staying alert. \u00a0Operating any vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including marijuana, is not only unsafe\u2014it\u2019s illegal.\u00a0 New Mexico\u2019s Boating Under the Influence (BUI) law applies to all vessels including kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, rowboats, and inflatable fishing rafts.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.emnrd.nm.gov\/spd\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/leasburg-low-head-dam-1-scaled.jpg” alt=”People swimming” title_text=”leasburg low head dam” show_in_lightbox=”on” show_bottom_space=”off” align=”center” module_id=”lightbox-img” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”898e0d0a-e308-4950-bdb5-ef16ef6ac26d” width=”50%” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Leasburg Diversion Dam, only 10 feet high, poses a serious danger to paddlecraft operators.<\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A paddle trip downriver can include these river hazards.<\/p>\n Low-head dams<\/strong>: These structures are difficult to see and can trap river paddlers. Consult a map of the river before your trip and know where dams are located. \u00a0Always carry your craft around them.\u00a0 Currents above low-head dams can sweep vessels over the dam.\u00a0 Currents below can suck vessels back toward the face of the dam.\u00a0 The recirculating currents and turbulent waters can swamp vessels and drown boaters.\u00a0 Low-head dams on the Rio Grande, Pecos River, San Juan River, and Animas River divert water into canals.\u00a0 The canals deliver drinking water to major cities and irrigation water to farms.<\/p>\n Rapids<\/strong>: When approaching rapids, go ashore well upstream and check them out before continuing. If you see dangerous conditions, carry your craft around them.\u00a0 Properly designed and fitted helmets should be worn when running rapids.\u00a0 When water levels are too low or too high, rapids can become dangerous or impossible to navigate. \u00a0View river flow rates<\/a>.<\/p>\n Strainers<\/strong>: These river obstructions allow water to pass through but stop and hold boats and people. Strainers can include fallen trees, overhanging branches, debris piles, and submerged fences.\u00a0 They can flip your boat and pin you underwater against the object.\u00a0 Even when then current is slow, give strainers as much room as possible.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If you own paddlecraft, keep your contact information in your boat, on a sticker, or in some other way. \u00a0When unoccupied paddlecraft are found adrift, it\u2019s assumed someone is in danger and a search is launched. \u00a0Calling the owner can help prevent unnecessary searches and free up resources. \u00a0Or the call could help rescuers gather information that helps with the search. \u00a0The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary provides free identification stickers at its boating safety classes and at other boating events.<\/p>\nBefore You Go<\/h3>\n
Get Educated<\/h3>\n
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Carry Essential Gear<\/h3>\n
Check and Understand the Weather<\/h3>\n
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Protect Against Cold Weather Shock<\/h3>\n
Be Visible to Other Boaters<\/h3>\n
File a Float Plan<\/h3>\n
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Avoid Alcohol and Drugs<\/h3>\n
Watch for River Hazards<\/h3>\n
Label Your Paddlecraft<\/h3>\n