With a summer pilot project now underway at Riverside Park, Tourism Kamloops says they’ve been working to cover all of the bases to keep people as safe as possible while on the water.

Director of Industry Relations and Communications, Monica Dickinson, says that includes waivers and plenty of signs informing people about the risks.

“We do have operating agreements with our vendors and one with the City. Beyond that, signage will be every where, and will clearly highlight that engaging with these activities comes at the guest’s risk,” she said.

“We’re really asking those that are wanting to take part in the Concession activities to really know what the risks are and understand that the river is a space that is very different than dry land and to really proceed with caution.”

As a general rule, while on the water, non-powered watercrafts like kayaks and canoes always have the right-of-way over power boats and jet skis.

The owner of Sea Legs Water Bikes – one of two vendors operating at The Concession to start – says people will be given a crash course on how to use a water bike before they take it out on the Thompson River.

That’s because Natrisha Sagris says while water bikes are found in 75 countries, for some people in Kamloops, it will likely be their first time on one this summer.

“They just have to be aware that it is a river and we’ll be going over routes and best practices for sure,” she said.

Sagris adds the water bikes are also yellow and blue in colour which will help with visibility.

“When I was out on the river, lots of boats were going by and people were pretty respectful and a lot of people made way,” she added. “There were a little bit of waves but you can easily manage those with a pontoon.”

In addition to the water sports, there will also be the option for people to rent games like spikeball, bocce ball, and even chess.

Kamloops City Councillor Bill Sarai called the launch of the pilot project – being run out of the old concession building at Riverside Park – a “great event” for the City.

“I’m a little bit nervous and excited at the same time just seeing people again outside with smiles on and enthusiasm and the sun is out,” he added. “I hope this is the road to recovery that we’ve all been waiting for, and that the small steps we’re taking to open up this park where one day in the next couple of weeks its full of people.”

The Concession at Riverside Park will be open everyday from 12:00 p.m. to 8 p.m., until September 7.