Lost boater found on Potholes Reservoir

MARDON — A boater lost on the Potholes Reservoir was rescued with the assistance of Grant County Mosquito Control District 1 and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office Monday.

MARDON — A boater lost on the Potholes Reservoir was rescued with the assistance of Grant County Mosquito Control District 1 and the Grant County Sheriff’s Office Monday.

Jim Kollmann, 66, Naselle, called 9-1-1 to report he was lost on the reservoir Sunday at about 8 p.m., Chief Deputy Courtney Conklin stated.

The sheriff’s office maintained contact with Kollmann over his cellphone until they had to postpone their search for him due to nightfall. Conklin stated the darkness made it dangerous for rescuers to navigate on the shallow water.

The mosquito control district located Kollmann at about 5 a.m. Monday using their aircraft, he explained.

“Pilot Andy Bagley noticed Kollmann while doing mosquito control in the area,” Conklin stated. “He was able to guide the sheriff patrol vessel right to the subject’s location. Kollmann was then led out through the narrow channels to safety.”

The boater told authorities he was cold, tired and hungry but in good health.

“The sheriff’s office would like to remind boaters to know the water they are boating on and always be prepared should your day outing become more than that,” Conklin advised.

— Staff report