Abandoned watercraft issues on Dillon Reservoir prompt Summit County sheriff to warn of rules requiring contact info on boats

The Summit County Sheriff's Office issued a press release Wednesday, June 19, reminding recreationists to write their names and contact information on paddleboards, kayaks and rafts.

The Sheriff's Office, according to the release, regularly responds to calls about unattended watercraft on local lakes and rivers and is forced to conduct searches if the vessel's owners cannot be contacted. All vessels must by law have the owner's name and address listed and should also include a phone number.

Deputies responded to two calls involving unattended vessels this week, according to the press release. On Monday, June 17, investigators investigated a kayak reported as abandoned on the shoreline of Roberts Tunnel, which shuttles water underground for use on the Front Range, at Dillon Reservoir. While searching, the deputies found life jackets and paddles along the shoreline, according to the Sheriff's Office, so it began a coordinated search that concluded when the kayak's owners emerged from a trail.

On Tuesday, June 18, an unattended floating fishing kayak was found near rocks at the Snake River inlet at Dillon Reservoir. Responders conducted a coordinated search along the shore, even using a drone to aid in their efforts. The kayak's owners safely returned to the area during the search.

“This is not just a recommendation; it's the law. Furthermore, any vessel, whether it's a paddle board, kayak, canoe, or any other type, that has an engine attached, including electric trolling motors, must have a current Colorado boating registration,” Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons said in a statement.