OSWEGO -- In September. two fishermen died after being swept down the Oswego River in high water. Since then, the city of Oswego has been thinking of ways to protect anyone who fishes in the river.
After hearing suggestions from fishermen and Oswego natives, a panel of several interested agencies and groups came up with what they said were the most realistic safety measures to implement. The panel recommended throw rings on the shoreline, signs warning fisherman of possible rising waters, safety pamphlets for tourists and a way to gauge rising water on the river.
"To have a depth finder if you will, a stick in the river, that will have elevated measurements," said Oswego Mayor Randy Bateman. "That will allow people to look over and say - now it's on one, now it's on two so the river is rising. I better get out."
Not included among the recommendations was a requirement for fishermen in the water to wear some type of personal flotation device. Mike Goldych said at the meeting that he has been advocating that fishermen wear PFDs for more than twenty years. He also said he wished the panel would finally address the problem.
"The real issue is PFDs and whether we fine guys $5 for not wearing them or $10. the main issue is to get the DEC to require in these types of areas to require a PFD."
The Mayor said they would advise all fishermen to wear a PFD but would not require it.
Fisherman Jared Crimmins didn't agree with everything he heard at the meeting but appreciated the chance to give input on ways to make the Oswego river safer.
"We all in this building tonight are taking the right steps. We're her to listen to what they have to say and we're here just to put input on top of it," said Crimmins.
The different agencies at Tuesday's meeting plan to start implementing the recommendations and hope to have the safety measures in place this spring.
