La Plata County, CO
11/02/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/02/2026 11:34
La Plata County Sheriff Sean Smith has ordered the Animas River to be closed
La Plata County Sheriff Sean Smith has ordered the Animas River to be closed to all watercraft until further notice because of hazardous swift water conditions and an immediate threat to public safety.
The emergency closure applies to all recreational and commercial watercraft, including paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, rafts and similar vessels. Colorado state law (CRS SS 33-13-111) authorizes emergency measures to restrict access to waterways when necessary to protect public safety.
Members of the public must stay off the Animas River while the closure is in effect. Entering the river during hazardous conditions puts boaters at risk and may also endanger search-and-rescue personnel and other emergency responders. Law enforcement will be patrolling popular areas.
Floodwater may contain sewage and other harmful contaminants. Avoid contact whenever possible. If exposure occurs, promptly wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and clean water.
La Plata County, CO published this content on November 02, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on November 02, 2026 at 17:34 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]