Delta Bay Foundation invites the community to its first 2026 event. On Saturday, March 21st, from 10am to 2pm, the Foundation will host a Boating and Water Safety event at Brannan Island State Recreation Area, Presented with the support of BISRA staff, community volunteers, and community agencies, this family-oriented fair will provide folks of all ages the chance to learn from local first responders about how to be safe in and on the cherished but often treacherous rivers of the California Delta.
Participating agencies include the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department’s Marine Enforcement detail, with a trailered fully equipped rescue boat and equipment. Members of the detail will display equipment such as dive gear and an underwater robot. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 53 will have information regarding many aspects of boating safety, including how to obtain a California Boating Card; trailering and launching a boat; and state and federal boating requirements. Coast Guard Flotilla 51 will conduct free inspections of trailered boats. In addition, there will be games for the kids including a truly exciting miniature paper boat race with prizes for the winners!
Kit Galvin, Flotilla Commander (FC), North Solano County, Flotilla 53 of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary described the complimentary vehicle program: “The Vessel Safety Check program is a cornerstone of the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s recreational boating safety mission. A Vessel Safety Check (VSC) is a free lookover of your boat or paddlecraft and its equipment for compliance with federal and state safety requirements. If your vessel meets all the VSC requirements, it is awarded a VSC decal.” All participating agencies immediately answered the call when the foundation reached out for program presenters. “Without these fine first responders, our community would be less safe,” one of the Foundation board members observed.
“The programs, geared to provide an enjoyable family experience, encourages kids to learn boating and water safety that could mean the difference between life and death in an unexpected situation.”
The Brannan Island Recreation Area has always been a jewel in the crown of the state park system. Its vast acreage, excellent boat ramp and docks, and spacious day area make it a perfect venue for this fun and informative event. During the March 21st event, a state Parks department staff will also host a fishing event for children, which is certain to draw both local residents and visitors from throughout Solano and Sacramento Counties. A generous donor to the Foundation will offset the cost of entry to the park for those attending the event.
Corinne Corley, event coordinator for the Delta Bay Foundation, can provide more information to anyone with questions in advance of the event. She can be reached by cell at 816-520-9152 (yes, 816 — she’s a Missouri-born transplant to California!). There is a Facebook page for the event where updates will be posted; that can be found https://www.facebook.com/
Brannan Island State Recreation Area is located at 17645 CA-160, Rio Vista.