The City of Sacramento and other flood-fighting agencies are inviting residents to get an up-close look at tools, heavy equipment and technology that keep homes and businesses safe during the annual Highwater Jamboree.
This free, family-friendly event on Oct. 17 at Garcia Bend Park (7654 Pocket Rd.) runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and gives the public a chance to see how local, state and federal agencies prepare for flood season.
Featured equipment includes public safety rescue vehicles, heavy trucks, automatic sandbagging machines, and “The Claw,” a tractor-like vehicle used to collect leaves and debris.
Attendees can also visit information booths to learn practical ways to prepare for floods—such as purchasing flood insurance, planning evacuation routes, and signing up for emergency alerts.
“Helping individuals and families prepare for the stormy season is our number-one goal with this event,” said Carlos Eliason, a communication specialist with the City’s Department of Utilities, which helps manage flood prevention. “But, we also know that the fun and interactivity of seeing and touching heavy equipment that we use to fight floods brings a whole new perspective to being prepared.”
City staff from various departments host the event alongside the County of Sacramento, CA Dept. of Water Resources, US Army Corps of Engineers and other local, state and federal agencies.
Hundreds are expected to attend and while RSVPs aren’t required, the City encourages participants to respond through the Facebook event page to help staff prepare.