SILOAM SPRINGS -- After consulting with a safety task force, the city of Siloam Springs has renamed the new Whitewater Park on the Illinois River.
The new name -- Siloam Springs Kayak Park -- is meant to market it to whitewater enthusiasts who might visit the waterway.
The safety task force, which consists of people from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, members of the Arkansas Canoe Club, the Benton County Emergency responders and residents who live near the park, said they wanted the park to have more of a purpose, said city communications manager Holland Hayden.
However, city public safety director Greg Neeley said in an emailed statement that the name change came after the task force expressed their desire for the park "to reflect what the park is and what it is not."
"The term 'Kayak Park' speaks to a level of preparedness that is necessary in order to negotiate a river that is very dynamic and also conveys the risks that are associated with swift water," Neely said. "The last thing we want is someone to drop their kids off and possibly subject kids to something they're not prepared for.
"We want to target our marketing efforts to the experts in the swift water communities to make them aware of this wonderful amenity. At the same time, there is still plenty to enjoy at the park for those in the novice or aspiring category. We just want to make certain that our residents and visitors have a great experience at the Park based upon their skill level and preparedness."
The name change was unveiled on Aug. 25.
At the Sept. 9 meeting, the safety task force convened to discuss potential ordinances and rebranding-improvement for the park.
Currently, the park is not deemed a city park, therefore rules, such as requiring life jackets, cannot be enforced, said Siloam Springs Police Chief Joe Garrett.
Other concerns brought forth to the group were regarding grills, pets and riverbank fishing.
Residents who live near the park suggested a no cooking ordinance because used charcoal briquettes are left behind.
Garrett said that the city can outright ban barbecue grills; however, Steve Runnels, resident and canoe club instructor, said that he didn't think it needed to be banned completely.
"The city can add special event permits," Garrett said.
An ordinance to ban grills has not gone before the Board of Directors, which is a requirement for new ordinances.
Leash law requirements were also a topic at the meeting. Riverside residents said that many people have pets who aren't on leashes and that they believe as long as the animals are under physical or voice control they should be allowed.
Fishing along the river bank at the park can create hazards for kayakers or visitors at the park.
"There is a concern about hooks in the water," said resident Rich Welch.
The city cannot enforce any fishing ordinances because the river is federal property; however, if the state does set limits, the city can enforce them.
NW News on 09/14/2014