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Water Activities
Snow Pack/Water Content • Equipment Lists • Helpful Information • Water Activity Courses
Idaho River Flow Information
Internet Sites
Rivers Throughout Idaho (U.S. Geological Survey Reports)
Boise & Payette Rivers (Bureau of Reclamation)
Upper Snake River (Bureau of Reclamation)
Other River Drainage Reports (Bureau of Reclamation)
Snake River: Murtaugh/Milner, Swan Falls & Hells Canyon (Idaho Power Reports)
Phone Numbers
Bear River (Black Canyon & Oneida Narrow) Recorded message:
(800) 547-1501
Bear River (Georgetown to Soda Springs Canoe Stretch) Soda Point Dam Operator:
(208) 547-3697
Blackfoot River (below Blackfoot Reservoir):
(208) 238-0586.
Snow Pack/Water Content
This is an internet service of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) that enables river runners to get an idea of spring & early summer flows based on mountain snow packs: Idaho Snow Pack/Water Content
Equipment Lists
Rafting or Kayaking (Multi-day Trips)
Use this list to make sure you don't forget anything on your next trip.
Helpful Information for your River Trips
Kayaks and Other Whitewater Craft
Click here for a primer on kayaks, whitewater canoes, inflatable kayaks and associated equipment such as paddles, flotation bags, helmets, spray skirts, etc.
Planning Multi-day Rafting or Kayaking Trips
Click here for some great hints: organizing your party, calculating trip costs, holding planning sessions, leading a trip and arranging transportation.
Rafts and Drift Boats
Click here for lots of information on: rafts, types of rafts, catarafts, dories, drift boats and associated equipment such as oars, paddles, pumps and waterproof storage bags.
Water Activity Courses Offered at ISU
PEAC 166 - Canoeing
A basic level course, teaching both American Red Cross and Native American canoeing styles, and covering paddling techniques, canoe design, equipment, clothing, camping, safety and rescue.
PEAC 167 - Kayak Touring
Basic skills for lake, ocean and flat-water kayaking including equipment, technique, navigation, safety and rescue.
PEAC 175A - Beginning Kayaking
Uses controlled environment of ISU pool and includes basic skills including draw and sculling strokes, high and low bracing, eddy turns, deep water rescue techniques, river safety, and Eskimo roll.
PE 284 - Intermediate Kayaking and Whitewater Safety
Combines practical field experience in moving water with a study of river safety and accident prevention. Topics include hazard evaluation, self and team rescue, case history review, and whitewater safety procedures. PREREQ: PEAC 175A OR PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR.
PE 381 - River Safety & Swiftwater Rescue
A comprehensive safety and rescue course for river users and rescue service personnel. Topics include safety equipment, river hazards, river crossings, tag line procedures, zip line and Z-pulley use, moving water extrications, and first aid considerations.