Needed Trip Information

   NECESSITIES

             SAFETY INFORMATION

               CODE OF ETHICS

• Sunscreen
• Plastic bag/Trash Container
• Waterproof Containers (cameras etc...)
• Headgear (caps etc...)
• Appropriate Weather gear/clothing
• Bottled Water (no glass containers)
• Bug Repellant
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Footwear

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SAFETY INFORMATION

• Wear your life jacket! Is it the proper size and in good condition?  There must be a wearable PFD aboard for each person.

• Don't stand up in a canoe

• If you capsize, stay with the canoe.  If you are in a strong current or white water, float down river feet first and toes up with the canoe ahead of you.

• Do not drink alcohol before or while canoeing.  Alcohol affects balance, coordination, and judgment.

• For more stability in rough conditions, kneel on the bottom instead of sitting on the seats.

• The most experienced paddler should take the stern position.

• Know the conditions before you set out. Always paddle within your abilities.

• Load the canoe evenly, fore and aft and side to side.

• Wear proper clothing, including a hat. If you end up in the water, do not remove your clothes. They help you float and protect you against hypothermia.

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CODE OF ETHICS

• Remember most of the land along the river is private property.  You must have permission to access this land.  Public access points are located at the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Smith Falls State Park (SP), and Middle Niobrara Natural Resources District's (NRD) Brewer Bridge.  River access sites may require previous arrangements and a fee.

• Carry a plastic or mesh trash bag and tie it on to your vessel.  Capsizing is the cause of much litter in the river.  Secure cooler lids shut as well.  Don't bring water balloons, glass or Styrofoam containers on your river trip.

• Refrain from tying tubes together.  People have slid beneath large flotillas of tubes and nearly drowned.  They also block the river passage for other floaters.

• Don't climb on cliffs or steep banks.  Like your body, the rock is "soft" and breaks easily.  Reduce erosion by using established landings and paths.

• All persons must be 21 years of age or older if they plan to drink alcohol.  Practice moderation.  Have an ID on each person.  The possession of alcohol is prohibited anywhere on the Fort Niobrara NWR and its consumption is not allowed at Smith Falls SP or at the Middle Niobrara NRD Brewer Bridge site and some private campgrounds.

• Fireworks are prohibited on the river, at Smith Falls Sp and the Fort Niobrara NWR.  State law regulates the possession and use of firearms on the river.

• Fort Niobrara National NWR has additional special regulations that apply. Note signs at their launch site or ask your outfitter for details.

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