River educator urges 'Look, Grip, Protect' approach for Yuba River users

Katrina Schneider, a river scientist and river‑skills teacher, told the meeting the Yuba River's clarity makes it appealing but not risk‑free. "The areas that we like that we'll cover here right now are to look, grip, and protect," she said, and urged visitors to "scout first" and examine play areas from downstream so the current cannot pull someone into hidden hazards.

Schneider described the three concepts in detail: "look" (survey from downstream and use a mask to check for obstructions), "grip" (watch for slippery granite and use three points of contact when moving on rock), and "protect" (avoid places that can entrap limbs and look out for others). She noted last year's high flows rearranged rocks and changed long‑standing play spots, increasing the risk of unseen hazards.

The presentation emphasized practical safety behaviors — checking flows, avoiding glass or open flames at river sites, and bringing patience and planning because parking near the river is limited and can complicate emergency access. Schneider closed by urging stewardship: pack out trash, pick up after pets, and prioritize mutual protection when recreating on the river.