x
Breaking News
More () »

Why swimming is banned from the Woodward Reservoir until April

Labor Day is the final day for swimming and most water activities at the Woodward Reservoir in Oakdale. Starting on Tuesday, September 4, all body to water contact is banned until April 2019.

Labor Day is the final day for swimming and most water activities at the Woodward Reservoir in Oakdale.

Starting on Tuesday, September 4, all body to water contact is banned until April 2019. What that means is, you can still bring your boat in the water, but both people and pets are not allowed to physically touch the water, let alone get in.

"If it takes you getting into the water to get into your vessel, then it's not allowed," Cheryl Jackson, park manager of the Woodward Resevoir said.

Jackson says this is mandated by the South San Joaquin Irrigation District permit. It's meant not to protect the safety of the swimmers, but to preserve the drinking water quality.

"Unfortunately, it does affect business as we know it, but it's something we have to do. [We] have to comply with the irrigation district because it is their water. They own it," she said.

It's Jackson's job to make sure everyone is out of the water 30 days before the intake process begins.

"One of the hardest things is trying to keep people out of the water with these high temperatures still," she said.

But in this 90-degree heat, visitors wish they had more time.

"I think they should push it back a couple weeks, just because it's so hot in September. It really is," Lanette Rollins, a Tracy resident said.

The park says the timing is up to the irrigation district, but they do plan for it around the fall every year.

"I'm sorry for the people that didn't show up today, because there's no more water. But I feel a little sad to know that it's the last day," Raul Camacho, a Stockton resident said.

If you're looking for a place to swim near Oakdale, officials suggest you head to the Modesto Reservoir for the rest of the year, but you have to leave your pets at home.

Continue the conversation with Lena on Facebook.

Before You Leave, Check This Out