The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has designated June as Iowa’s Rivers Month.

Greene County Conservation Director Dan Towers says the North Raccoon River provides a place for all those water lovers to enjoy.

“We have 40 miles of the North Raccoon River in Greene County, with seven concrete boat ramps. So we have some of the best access to the river that you’ll find anywhere in the state.”

While most vessels are allowed on the river, Towers warns everyone to stay away from any brush piles.

“Even when the river is lower like this, if you get up against a log or one of those brush piles, that current doesn’t go around it, it goes down and under. And if you get wedged against it, it’ll pull your canoe, kayak or whatever right down and underneath it. So, the best advice is just to make sure that you steer clear of those brush piles.”

He adds that lifejackets must be with the vessel at all times, and anyone 12 and younger must be wearing a lifejacket.