Kings River in Tulare County Closed Through July 4 Weekend

July 1, 2011

Tulare County’s General Services and Sheriff’s Departments wants to remind the public that the Kings River in Tulare County will remain closed through the Fourth of July weekend to all recreational use due to dangerous conditions. Recreational uses include swimming, tubing, rafting, and boating. The Kings River in Tulare County has been closed since June 16.
 
The Army Corps of Engineers is releasing water from Pine Flat Dam, which flows into the Kings River and travels through Kings, Fresno, and Tulare counties. Currently, the flow at the Kings River continues to exceed 4,000 cubic feet per second, and is projected to do so for the next week or two.
 
Tulare County officials closed the Kings River in early April, when peak flow exceeded 4,000 cubic feet per second.
 
“The Kings River is closed to recreational use due to extreme rapid currents and cold water,” said Neil Pilegard, Tulare County Parks Manager. “By no means should residents attempt to enter the river. These conditions pose a great concern for public safety.”
 
For information please call Cutler Sheriff Sub Station (559) 591-5811 or General Services at (559) 624-7227.
 
The Kings River closures are being posted. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Department will provide enforcement.