KELSEYVILLE — Anticipation was running high Friday as boaters and spectators flocked to the BoardStock XI on Clear Lake.
This is the second year BoardStock has visited the lake. Promoters promise BoardStock XI will be “bigger, better and badder” than ever. With 50,000 guests expected to be in attendance, Konocti Harbor has taken the precautions to ensure a safe event.
Several agencies from Lake County”s surrounding areas and beyond have joined the force with Konocti Harbor”s own water patrol and security units to ensure the safety of all BoardStock XI guests.
Marine patrol units, including five from the Lake County Sheriff”s Office, are patrolling the waters enforcing California Waterways regulations and educating boaters with basic safety precautions.
BoardStock XI was described by one Lake County law enforcer as what could be the largest event held on Clear Lake. With experience gained from last year”s 10th birthday bash celebration, Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa General Manager Greg Bennett knew what to expect and the resort is ready to welcome the mass of BoardStockers to come.
A total of 13 marine patrol units, along with Konocti Harbor”s marine patrol, are guarding the waters surrounding the resort. Added officers in on-ground security have also heightened prevention efforts to ensure a pleasant event this weekend.
Along with the five Lake County Sheriff boats, two teams from Sonoma County and one team each from Sutter, Sacramento, Amador and El Dorado counties are providing service. California Fish and Game and Coast Guard Auxilliary are also on the water.
Boaters and water-sporters are being cautioned to adhere to the law and abide by all California Waterways regulations. “We”re taking a heavier hand in enforcement this year,” said Lake County Sheriff Office Sgt. Don McPherson, “but we”re still doing a lot of education.”
Boaters are reminded that operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal and violators will be arrested. Furthermore, vessels are required to have proper lighting when operated at night and there should be enough life vests aboard for all passengers. The boat should be equipped with a life ring as well.
Boaters also are warned to obey speed limits. Boat speed is 5 MPH when 100 feet from boating docks and 200 feet from swimmers and swim areas.
“Last year we didn”t have any deaths and we don”t want any this year,” said Sgt. McPherson. “Other than that, we just want everyone to have fun.”
BoardStock XI continues through Sunday at Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa with an awards ceremony preceding Sunday”s finale concert featuring grunge rock icon Alice in Chains.
Tonight, it”s the Saturday Night Dance Party with Wonderbread 5 and the Hawaiian Tropic 2006 Model Search.
Access onto Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa requires purchase of a $20 BoardStock XI Day Pass today and Sunday. Boat docking and tie line accommodations are also priced at $20 as is conventional parking. For more information call (800) 660-LAKE.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
