PINE RIVER — After a long wait, Pine River Duck Race fanatics will have to wait at least another week to get their fix due to a lazy river flow. The previously announced Friday, June 17, duck races were canceled.
Pine River Chamber Director Michaela Reed experimented Wednesday night, June 15, to test the water flow. Reed dumped the ducks into the rock riffle channel where the water flow was greatest, but half of the ducks became stuck and the rocks are already too slick to safely retrieve them.
Reed attempted to dump the ducks off the bridge beyond the riffle, but the water flow at this time is too slow for much movement. Other experiments were had, but Reed and other volunteers agreed it was likely best to call a rain check.
With the old dam, water flow was semi-adjustable, meaning the flow could be increased or decreased slightly for duck races. Even then there was a limit, and during times of high rainfall, duck races were regularly canceled.
While organizers will attempt to hold the duck races Friday, June 24, during the Dam Days weekend, the Pine River Chamber of Commerce welcomes any suggestions for a more predictable, less weather dependent way to continue the popular Pine River Duck Races. Ideas may be shared on Facebook or sent to PRCOFC@yahoo.com.
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