What we do
A page within RiverWatch
The Operation: River Watch program serves the community every weekend during the academic year on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night in shifts. Each shift needs a minimum of two (2) volunteers and a maximum of four (4).
At the beginning of each shift, volunteers will meet at the eagle sculpture at the end of State Street in Riverside Park. Volunteers will sign in and be provided with a reflective vest, flashlight and other gear that may be needed depending on the weather (coats, hats, mittens, umbrellas, etc.). Volunteers will then patrol the walkway above the levee from the eagle sculpture southwards to the end of the levee and back. During this time, volunteers watch for anyone entering the park. If anyone does enter the park during the shift, the volunteers are to calmly approach the individuals, inform them that the park is closed and no one is allowed in the park after hours, and kindly ask them to leave.
Most people are unaware the park is closed and will leave without incident. There are times, however, when volunteers encounter intoxicated individuals who are not sure of their present situation. If this is the case, volunteers should provide them with whatever assistance they need to head away from the river. Should conflict arise, volunteers should contact law enforcement for assistance.
At the end of each shift, volunteers meet at the eagle sculpture, return their gear and document any contacts made during their shift, before signing out.
