SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon State Marine Board is inviting public comment on proposed changes to boating regulations affecting the Siletz River and its tributaries, following approval of draft rule language at its April 23 meeting in Tillamook.
The proposed updates fall under Oregon Administrative Rule 250-020-0231, which governs boat operations in Lincoln County. The revisions aim to modify motorized boating activity along sections of the Siletz River.
Under the proposed rules:
- Motorized boats would be limited to engines no larger than 15 horsepower and required to operate at slow, no-wake speeds between the Jack Morgan Park boat ramp and the Old Mill Park boat ramp.
- All motor use would be prohibited upstream of Old Mill Park.
- Motorized boating would also be banned on all tributaries of the Siletz River upstream of Jack Morgan Park.
Officials say the changes are intended to address safety, environmental concerns, and recreational use conflicts along the river.
The public comment period is open through 11:55 p.m. on June 30, 2026. Comments may be submitted via email to jennifer.cooper@boat.oregon.gov or by mail to the Oregon State Marine Board’s administrative office in Salem.
In addition to written comments, the agency will host a hybrid public hearing on May 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its office, located at 435 Commercial Street NE, Suite 400, in Salem, with an option to attend online. A separate work session, which will include opportunities for public testimony, is planned for a later date.
More information, including the full rulemaking notice and future updates, is available on the Marine Board’s website.
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