Sam Caravana/Staff

Gabriel Nair | The Oregonian/OregonLive

What is the Big Float?

The Big Float is a fundraiser put on by the Human Access Project to support the preservation and healthy development of the Willamette River as a recreational resource. This year’s event will be 11 a.m. Saturday, July 15, at the Tom McCall Bowl (Southwest Columbia and Naito). Organizers are expecting thousands of people to participate.

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Stephanie Yao Long/Staff

Gabriel Nair | The Oregonian/OregonLive

How did the Big Float get started?

The Human Access Project, under the leadership of Willie Levenson, started the Big Float in 2011 to give Portland residents a positive interaction with the Willamette River. Levenson said he was inspired by a group of people who were “willing to just jump into the river even though many people viewed [the Willamette] as a toilet.”

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Sam Caravana/Staff

Gabriel Nair | The Oregonian/OregonLive

Is it safe to swim and float in the Willamette River?

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality says the Willamette is safe for swimming, but you can also check the water quality here

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Stephanie Yao Long/Staff

Gabriel Nair | The Oregonian/OregonLive

What type of floating devices are allowed at the Big Float?

Anything and everything, from air mattresses to rafts to classic inner tubes, is allowed. As long as it can float, you can sit or lie in it, and it is human-powered, go ahead and use it! There will even be a contest for the most creative floatation device, so fun and innovative designs are encouraged.

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Sam Caravana/Staff

How much does it cost and how do I register?

Participants are encouraged to pre-register here to save time the morning of the event. Cost is $8 through July 14 and $10 the day of the event. Life jackets are available for an additional $9, but supply is limited.

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Sam Caravana/Staff

Gabriel Nair | The Oregonian/OregonLive

What if there is cold weather? What if it rains?

The forecast this Saturday is sunny with a high of 85 degrees and a low of 55, but there's always the possibility that weather could be a factor. Check the website, or the Facebook page for last minute updates.