OR State Marine Board release - The Oregon State Marine Board’s staff recently installed new signs on the Siletz River to raise awareness of the significant cultural, ecological, and social values that exist for the local community. The “Respect the River” campaign encourages boaters to be mindful of their boat operations and share space with other recreators, especially during periods of heavy use. Signs are posted at the following boating access sites: Strome Park; Jack Morgan Park; Ojalla Bridge Slide; Old Mill Park; Hee Hee Illahee; Twin Bridges Park Ramp; Moonshine Park Ramp. The Marine Board traditionally directs staff to work with boaters in local communities by spreading awareness through education campaigns, signage, and marine law enforcement contacts, with a period of evaluation before implementing new rules for boat operations. Last July, the Oregon State Marine Board convened a rule advisory committee (RAC) in response to a petition submitted in February 2025 by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The petition asks the Marine Board to consider prohibiting all motorboats upstream of Jack Morgan Park to protect the riverbanks from motorboat wake, protect native fish habitat, and improve mixed-use boating safety. The agency continues to gather data from subject matter experts and will evaluate the education and outreach efforts through the fall and winter fisheries. Marine Board staff will update the board and ask for further direction during its next quarterly meeting, scheduled for January 29, in Salem. Find more information on the Siletz River rule advisory committee activities: https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/info/Pages/Rulemaking-and-Public-Notices.aspx.