You Have A Friend

[Chief Grey Bear]

As you all know, I had a meeting with Mr. Copeland this morning. It lasted about 30 minutes and was very cordial and informative.

As I began speaking, some of the things that I stated, started to show a pattern of harassment from this particular land owner. I made my points on the rights of floaters as afforded by the 1954 court case. He agreed with all points. I was very surpised in that he seemed to know and agreed to all of these points without knowing about the court case itself.

To keep it short and sweet, it was stated to me that we as floaters have rights to the high water mark. You cannot litter or cause any type of property damage. He stated that he does not know where the high water mark is but, if you stay on the gravel bar you will not be tresspassing. If you are on an island surrounded by the stream, you are not tresspassing. If a landowner shows up and orders you to leave, do not engage in a shouting match. Do not do anything that may be viewed as a threat. Basically everything that is in the Elder vs. Delcour case was conveyed to me as being ok.

In closing, he offered his personal cell number and told me to call him if I needed too. To me that was some class and a strong gesture that he will protect our rights as he said he would.

But (yeah its that word) he will also protect the rights of the land owner. And I totally agree with that. It shouldn't ever have to come to the point where it has come but, it has. I was asked to stay away from this section of river and let things cool off. And I will. He also stressed that he doesn't want a group coming in and floating this section to test the waters. I gave my word that I would work with him and keep others out for a cool off period.

Now I know what you are thinking. "Chief, what right do you have to keep us off a stretch of water that you just fought to float? You can't keep us off of any stretch of water!" And you are absolutely correct. But you don't know where this stretch is other than it is on Shoal Creek near Neosho. And the fellas that did come on this float are a great bunch of stand up guy's that will honor my request. But if you do want to float this section, I'll see you in October.

And speaking of honoring request, I would like to thank those that responded to my request and were brave enough to sign your name on the dotted line and in a adult manner. Sadly though, some couldn't. But for those it was typical and was expected.

[Buzz]

Great Job Chief. I'm glad we know where our Sheriff stands on the subject. He seems like a great guy.

[woodman]

OH right good news....catch some big ones for me on you're next float cause that creek is loaded with em Chief....

[FishinCricket]

I'll see you in October then... (at least on that stretch)

[jdmidwest]

Thanks Chief, you are welcome as always.

[drew03cmc]

I hope to be present on that float in October!

[flytyer57]

Thanks for your work and the reply as to the outcome Chief.

Thanks to all of you who signed.

Now how did that warrant thingy turn out?

[jdmidwest]

Now how did that warrant thingy turn out?

I wonder that myself, if they were asked to leave and they left peaceably, there should be no charges. Cricket's post did not mention any tickets.

Still waiting on the rest of the story.

[ColdWaterFshr]

Thanks, Chief for going to meet the good Sheriff and setting him straight. Sounds like you really had him on the ropes with all your legal precedents and internet signatures and what not. Now come down off that cross before Good Friday arrives, we got some eggs to dye and hide in Mr. Praters back 40.

[stlfisher]

Glad to hear this all worked out chief. Well done.