Kern County Supervisor David Couch wants to know if it’s possible to close the Kern River to the public and how much it would cost after several deaths and a high number of rescues this month alone.

He put that question to staff at Tuesday’s board meeting. Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Sgt. Sean Bittle has responded that they do not have the manpower to close the Kern River.

The Tule and Kings rivers were closed last month after several drownings and close calls.

Suzanne Grant