For those who are used to tubing within the New Braunfels city limits, which includes portions of both the Comal and Guadalupe rivers, the 2007 summer tubing season will bring about a few controversial changes.

The rule changes are so controversial, in fact, that they indirectly led to the recalling of New Braunfels City Councilman Ken Valentine in the recent elections and a long line of in-court litigation between those in favor and those opposed to the new ordinances.

With those new rules in effect for 2007, here are some tubing guidelines — some new and others already established — to adhere to when heading out for a ride on the river.

No beer bongs or Jell-o shots

No foam or glass containers

No containers less than 5 fluid ounces

Noise devices may not be audible beyond 50 feet

No jumping from bridges, dams and trees

No littering

Maximum permitted cooler size is 16 quarts (approximately 20 12-ounce cans)

Coolers must have a locking mechanism (zipper, Velcro, latch, cord, etc.)

One cooler per person

No more than two tubes per person on the Comal River

Inner tubes are limited to five feet in diameter

No open alcoholic containers allowed in River Acres Park, Last Tubers Exit, Cypress Bend Park, Hinman Island Park and Prince Solms Park
 
SOURCE: City of New Braunfels Web site

Clint Hale | 210SA