The U.S. Coast Guard established a temporary safety zone on the Columbia River at Richland, Washington, to protect people, vessels and the marine environment during the Richland Regatta high-speed hydroplane races. The zone covered all navigable waters near Howard Amon Park between River Miles 337 and 338 and was enforced from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on June 27 and 28, 2026.

The Captain of the Port, Sector Columbia River, issued the temporary final rule under 46 U.S.C. 70034 after the hydroplane event was scheduled outside its standard regulatory window — the “second weekend in June” under 33 CFR 100.1302. Entry into the zone was prohibited unless authorized by the COTP or a designated representative, with mariners directed to seek permission on VHF-FM Channel 16 or by phone at (833) 769-8724.

The Coast Guard issued the rule without prior notice and comment, citing insufficient time to establish the zone before the event. Questions were directed to LCDR Jesse Wallace of the Sector Columbia River Waterways Management Division.

Select the link to learn more.