Kayakers rescued in Mikana

MIKANA - Two kayakers were rescued from Mikana Dam on Sunday, June 9, after overturning in the current.

At 12:30 p.m., the Barron County 911 Center took the call of the kayakers who needed to be rescued. According to the Barron County Sheriff's Department, deputies along with the DNR, Birchwood Fire and EMS, Marshfield Medical Center ambulance and the Rice Lake Fire Department all responded to the scene.

The Barron County recreation deputy and a DNR warden arrived on scene and located the two kayakers hanging onto a tree in a heavy current from the dam. Rescue ropes were deployed by the warden and deputy, and both subjects were brought to shore. Both subjects were treated and released at the scene. Birchwood and Rice Lake fire departments deployed equipment and a boat and located the missing kayaks downstream.

Both subjects were wearing life jackets and this is the reason they were able to stay afloat and hang on to a tree in the river so they could be rescued. It is a good reminder you are required to have a life jacket on any vessel in a waterway, including kayaks, canoes, etc., and it is highly recommended that they be worn at all times while on the water.

The department thanks all first responders and dispatchers, with a special commendation to the warden and recreation deputy for their efforts and quick response in this rescue.