Two Kayakers Rescued Near Mikana Dam By Barron County First Responders

BARRON COUNTY — On Sunday, a dramatic rescue unfolded near the Mikana Dam when two kayakers overturned in the swift current and clung to a tree for safety. Quick action by the Barron County Sheriff’s Department, WI DNR, Birchwood Fire and EMS, Marshfield Medical Center Ambulance, and Rice Lake Fire Department led to their successful rescue, according to a press release from Barron County Sheriff Chris Fitzgerald.

PRESS RELEASE

On Sunday, June 9, 2024, at 12:30 p.m., the Barron County 911 Center took a call of two kayakers that overturned in the current near the Mikana Dam and need to be rescued. Deputies from the Barron County Sheriff’s Department along with the WI DNR, Birchwood Fire and EMS, Marshfield Medical Center Ambulance and the Rice Lake Fire Department all
responded to the scene.

Barron County Recreation Deputy and a WI DNR Warden arrived on scene and located the two kayakers hanging onto a tree in a heavy current from the Mikana 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 Fire and Rice Lake Fire deployed equipment and a boat and located the missing kayaks downstream.

Both subjects were wearing lifejackets and is the reason they were able 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 lifejacket on any vessel in a waterway, including kayak, canoes etc., and it is highly recommended that they be worn at all times while on the water.

Thank you to all the first responders and dispatchers today but a special commendation to Warden Loining and Recreation Deputy Wolfe for their efforts and quick response today in this rescue.