A celebration of the McKenzie's namesake

NIMROD: People who appreciate fine craftsmanship as well as folks who make their living on waterways will all converge at the Eagle Rock Lodge on April 27th. They’ll be there along with hundreds of other fans of a boat that has become known around the world.

This year’s Wooden Boat Festival will offer an opportunity to relax, and learn about the river and the history of the influential double-ended McKenzie River drift boat from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free at the Lodge located at 49198 McKenzie Highway, between Milepost 34 and 35.

An informal flotilla to Eagle Rock is planned to launch from the Forest Glen Boat Landing at 8 a.m. and arrive at Eagle Rock Lodge around 10. People planning to bring a boat to the show should arrive by 9 to arrange a courtesy tow from the parking area to the riverfront grounds.

Boats can be pulled from the river, parked on the grounds, and then re-launched for the takeout one-half mile downstream at the Silver Creek Landing. Boaters are advised to pre-arrange shuttles and reminded there is no pre-registration or fee to display a boat.