A day on the water is the perfect antidote for Arizona’s scorching summer heat, but it’s important to be mindful of the lake’s inherent risks, the power of Mother Nature, and the important planning that can all have an impact on your safety.
Recently, experts from various agencies visited Scorpion Bay Marina where they held a press conference ahead of the busy summer season. Representatives from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department, Arizona Game and Fish Department along with elected state officials explained their best practices for safe water play.
R.J. Cardin from the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department said one thing boaters may see more of this year is debris in the water. This is the result of the heavy winter snows and the resulting powerful runoff. “Water levels have come up this year thanks through inflows from the Colorado River and the Agua Fria River which has been running considerably higher than normal. For boaters, specifically, because of the additional runoff in the Agua Fria River we have a lot of floating debris in the lake and boaters need to be cognizant of, things like floating logs, other sorts of debris. Be sure you have a spotter for you at the front of the boat making sure you don’t hit anything because that could be very dangerous.”
Cardin also says launching boats may be more difficult this year because the increased runoff has left one of the main parking lots under water. He said to plan ahead and arrive to the lake early. Because of the increased water level in Lake Pleasant, there is also a decrease in the amount of shoreline available to water enthusiasts. In late May Lake Pleasant was 92% full leaving reduced room to picnic and enjoy the water from the shoreline.
Maricopa County Supervisor Thomas Galvin hosted the press conference in an effort to educate the public on both the dangers of the water, but also the practical and applicable safety practices. “We’ve had a rough couple years on Arizona lakes,” he said. “If you’re on a lake, wear a life vest. People overestimate their swimming ability, and they don’t realize how powerful the water is. They also think being in a lake means there will be other people close by, but this is a big lake so that’s not always going to be the case. So, it’s simple, wear a life jacket and do not overestimate your ability to overcome the water.”
To help boaters and their families stay safe, the Arizona Game and Fish Department also offers life jacket swaps every year. For future swap dates, check their website.
Located just 45 minutes from downtown Phoenix in Peoria, Arizona on Lake Pleasant, Scorpion Bay offers convenience and world-class marina services for the entire family. With hundreds of covered and uncovered wet slips, world-class food at Scorpion Bay Grill – as well as boat rentals including pontoons, fishing boats, yacht charters, ski-boats, kayaks and other water toys – you’re sure to find a full day of entertainment on the water. As part of Lake Pleasant Regional Park, visitors can venture out for hiking, picnicking and wildlife viewing in the area. Parking is easily accessible, and our no cost electric tram will take guests and their gear from the parking lot to the dock in minutes. Scorpion Bay is managed by Desert Troon Companies https://desert-troon.com/.
Scorpion Bay is Arizona’s premier floating playground, offering everything from daily pontoon and ski boat rentals to slips for harboring your yacht (or dinghy). Come for the fishing or come for the frolicking—either way, incredible mountain views, fantastic dining and world-class marina services await less than an hour out of Phoenix. https://www.scorpionbayaz.com/