La Crosse, Wis., September 3, 2025 — Operation: RiverWatch is back for another school year, and students can join the effort to help keep the community safe.

A student-led initiative launched in 2006, Operation: RiverWatch deploys a team of volunteers to monitor Riverside Park in downtown La Crosse during overnight hours, with the goal of preventing river-related deaths and other potential emergencies.

The program operates Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights (11 p.m. to 3 a.m.) during the academic year, contingent on the availability of volunteers.

Students can learn more and sign up online.

Margy Krogman, manager of Student Leadership and Engagement, says student clubs are looking forward to participating in the program for another year.

“Our goal is not only to serve the community, but also to strengthen the connection between our student leaders and the broader region,” said Krogman. “Especially given recent events, it’s clear how important this program is for community safety. We welcome and encourage all students to get involved whenever they can.”

Operation: RiverWatch is a collaborative effort among students at La Crosse’s three colleges: UW-La Crosse, Viterbo University and Western Technical College. Campuses take turns covering weekly shifts. School leaders and local law enforcement help oversee and support the program.

When Operation: RiverWatch is in action, a team of volunteers patrols the walkway above the levee in Riverside Park, watching for anyone entering the area. Volunteers inform visitors that the park is closed after hours, redirecting them away from the river.

While the vast majority of interactions end without incident, volunteers are advised to contact the La Crosse Police Reserves, located nearby, if additional assistance is required.

Operation: Riverwatch offers additional support during Oktoberfest, the busiest weekend of the year in downtown La Crosse, with extra volunteers patrolling the riverside.

The engagement of volunteers is vital to the program. Western student organizations that volunteer are eligible to receive financial support for their club.

“We know our students are balancing school, jobs, family, and so many other commitments, which makes their willingness to volunteer all the more inspiring,” says Krogman. “Both our students see how valuable this program is in helping make La Crosse a safer place for everyone.”