During training, Whatcom Water Rescue Task Force called into action on the Nooksack River

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — On Wednesday, May 20, 2026, members of the Whatcom County Water Rescue Task Force conducted river training operations on the Nooksack River in preparation for this year’s Ski to Sea event scheduled for Sunday according to a statement from the Everson Police Department.

During the training, multiple Ski-to-Sea participants and their canoes were seen practicing on the river.

While traveling upstream, rescue personnel encountered a disabled vessel unrelated to the Ski to Sea event drifting downstream. The occupants requested assistance and were safely towed approximately 10 miles to the Lynden Boat Launch without incident.

The task force later continued upstream to Everson before returning downstream. During the return trip, rescuers observed individuals on shore waving their arms and directing attention toward a large tree in the river. Rescue personnel located two individuals clinging to the tree with no canoe in sight.

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Rescuers safely recovered both individuals from the river and transported them back to their vehicle in Lynden. No injuries were reported and life jackets were worn.

– Everson Police Department (May 20, 2026)

According to the statement, “The Whatcom County Water Rescue Task Force consists of personnel from multiple agencies throughout Whatcom County dedicated to swiftwater rescue and flood response operations.”