Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies are increasing enforcement efforts at Emigrant Lake this weekend in response to “Floatopia” – an unsanctioned end-of-year party popular with college students and others. The added presence is an attempt to prevent a repeat of issues that occurred during the event in 2018.
“We had quite a few problems last year during Floatopia weekend,” said JCSO Sergeant Julie Denney. “This year, we hope people will make better choices and help keep the park enjoyable for everyone.”
In June 2018, deputies responded to multiple complaints associated with the Floatopia weekend event. Issues generally stemmed from alcohol and drug use and included disorderly conduct, impaired driving and boating, motor vehicle crashes, and a lengthy vehicle pursuit that involved several law enforcement agencies (http://jacksoncountyor.org/sheriff/News/driver-arrested-following-lengthy-pursuit-photo-1).
The JCSO presence will include deputies assigned to marine patrol and traffic patrol. Deputies will be able to use grant funds to pay overtime costs for deputies to patrol for impaired drivers.
A special event permit has not been filed for the Floatopia event, therefore anyone entering Emigrant Lake park will need to adhere to general park use rules. Jackson County Parks will have employees monitoring the campground and day use areas. People found to be in violation of park rules will be directed to leave. The Parks Department will allow the use of ride-share services in the park to help prevent impaired driving.