Rafting Gone Wild Prompts Alcohol Ban On American River
SACRAMENTO COUNTY (CBS13) — An alcohol ban is planned this weekend on the American River because of an event called Rafting Gone Wild.
For the third year in a row, thousands will take over the American River.
"We have to respond to fight and assault calls and provide emergency services."
The Sheriff's Department can't keep up with all the problems on the river during events like Rafting Gone Wild.
"They're drunk, they're hollering, they're flashing people. It's not family-friendly," said Lisa Silva.
"If people are naked or flashing themselves?" said Jason Ramos with the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department. "That's just part of the event, unfortunately."
Silva says she avoids the river because of these problems.
"I think the river should be for everyone. Leave your alcohol parties at home."
That's what the county parks department is hoping for through the special one-day ban on alcohol on Saturday.
"Not drinking would definitely make our job easier," said Nicolas Muhn at American River Raft Rental.
Last year, while helping some people, law enforcement had rocks thrown at them by groups floating by.
"It's been an absolute drain on our resources, make no mistake about it," Ramos said.
Thousands of people attended last year, and on the group's Facebook page for this year's event. It looks like there could be just as many people, if not more.
The department worries it'll take a death at the rafting event to make people think twice about organizing this year after year.
