Alcohol question goes to committee

By Betty Smith The Weatherford Democrat Wed Oct 18, 2006, 04:44 PM CDT

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — People who like to sip a cold beer or two while floating the Illinois River can continue to do so – at least for the time being.

But those who imbibe too much will probably be more likely to come face to face with a River Ranger next season.

Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission members voted Tuesday to send a proposal to ban alcohol from Northeastern Oklahoma’s scenic streams back to a subcommittee. The panel will hold public hearings and solicit public comment before returning the item to the OSRC agenda.

Stressing the need for more law enforcement along the river, commissioners also voted to ask the Oklahoma Legislature to authorize employing 10 seasonal rangers next year, up from the current seven.

Proponents of the alcohol ban say it would result in fewer problems for property owners along the river and those who want to float in a family-oriented atmosphere, free from the antics of drunks.

Opponents include members of the Illinois River Outfitters, who contend it would hurt not only their businesses, but Tahlequah tourism in general; and people who say moderate drinking contributes to their enjoyment of the river, while not hindering other floaters.

Discussion on the issue was brief, with commissioners quickly voting to refer the matter to the subcommittee. Chairman Bill Blackard said he wanted float outfitters and other interested parties to attend those meetings.

Property owner Mike Ishmael said people who drink to excess create problems along the river. He referred to three drunks he encountered on his land.

“I would love to see someone responsible for the drunks, other than the drunks themselves,” he said.

Commissioners also received a letter from the outfitters’ organization.

“Even though the ban has only been proposed, by the time it is read by a few people in the paper or heard about on the television, many of our customers believe that a ban is already in effect,” the letter stated. “As a result, we have seen a drop in business, compared to last year’s usage, to the tune of almost 40 percent.”

Customers have told the outfitters they do not want anyone telling them they cannot float the river in the manner to which they have been accustomed, the letter stated.

Betty Smith writes for Tahlequah (Okla.) Daily Press.

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