News Article

Archived News Release: August 26, 2020 -

Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation is *urging the public to refrain from using tubes in the Argo Cascades, which is on the Huron River in Ann Arbor. This *request is aligned with Washtenaw County Health Department's issuance of a public health emergency order and Ann Arbor City Council enacting an emergency ordinance effective Aug. 24 limiting the size of social gatherings or events within the city of Ann Arbor. No more than 25 people may gather at outdoor events. The local order enhances existing state orders and further restricts social gathering in areas at increased risk for COVID-19 outbreaks as the student population returns to local universities. These efforts are to make clear the city's rules and expectations regarding face masks and restrictions on social gatherings amid the pandemic. The order will remain in effect until amended or rescinded.

The Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Canoe Liveries at Argo and Gallup will remain open and continue to take boat reservations for individuals interested in being on the river. Reservations can be done on line or by contacting the liveries. For more information about what is available, please visit www.a2gov.org/canoe. 

*“Throughout the pandemic, the liveries have attempted to reduce the number of people on the river through operational means, including limiting the number of reservations and not renting tubes this year," said Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Deputy Manager Josh Landefeld. “But individuals with their own tubes continue to use the Argo Cascades creating crowds that are not consistent with the current orders."

Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation staff *and Ann Arbor Police will be working together to remind those who want to use tubes of the importance of limiting the size of groups. *Social gatherings in excess of 25 people may be in violation of the Washtenaw County Public Health Order and subject to prosecution.

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