Tulare County's General Services and Sheriff's Departments announced today that the Kings River in Tulare County is closed to motorized vessels, such as boats and jet skis, until water levels and rates increase.

Tulare County Parks Manager Neil Pilegard said motorized vessels should not be used in the Kings River until water flows reach 400 cubic feet per second. As of today, water is flowing at a rate between 30- and 50 cubic-feet per-second.

"Operating motorized vehicles in the Kings River with low water levels and rates is dangerous," Pilegard said. "We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause."

Tulare County works with the King River Watermaster to determine water levels and flow rate. Pilegard said the Kings River Watermaster estimates that flows will remain at low levels through the end of May, including Memorial Day Weekend.

CONTEST OFFERS $150 AWARD TO FOURTH-GRADE STUDENT     

Some lucky fourth-grader will win $150 if he or she is the winner of the 14th Annual Farm Water Poster Contest sponsored by the California Farm Water Coalition. Teachers of the top three entries will each receive a $100 cash award for classroom supplies.

The contest recognizes "Water Awareness Month" and emphasizes how California farmers use water to produce food and fiber.

"It has been amazing to view the entries over the years and realize that these students have grasped the importance of water to California farmers," said Mike Wade, Coalition Executive Director. "The posters have not only portrayed the use of water on the farm but also its source."

With winter rain and thunderstorms that occur, wind can cause trees to blow over on power lines. Wet roads also cause traffic accidents that may result in autos hitting power poles. Electric power lines are designed to be out of the public’s reach.

When electric power lines fall to the ground they should be considered “live”, or energized, with electricity flowing. If you see a downed power line:  Don’t touch or try to move the power line, or anything in contact with it.  Do call 911.  Do keep yourself, children and animals far away. 

If a power line falls across a vehicle:  If you’re not in the vehicle, stay far away and keep others away while calling 911.  If you’re inside the vehicle, if it’s safe, stay in the car until help arrives.