Jake Wallace is the owner of Whitewater Worthy Equipment, LLC, located in Central Point, Oregon. He spends as much time as possible on Southern Oregon rivers and floats the Rogue year-round. His business sells whitewater rafting equipment, including frames and other products he manufactures himself at his shop. Learn more about his products at www.whitewaterworthy.com or contact him directly at jake@whitewaterworthy.com

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I am an avid Rogue River Private boater and do trips all year long. We have done up to 12 trips each year in every season and love the variety of conditions that each of the seasons provide.

Tell us about Whitewater Worthy Equipment

We make custom rafting equipment that has been developed to ensure a secure boat while simplifying rigging and maximizing your time between the boat ramps. We have a full industrial sewing shop and specialize in Mesh and PVC Bags for any application.

We also have a full welding shop using MIG, TIG and Plasma machines to fabricate Aluminum and steel products. Our sheet Metal sheer and brake complete our ability to create custom rafting and camping equipment.

NRS, Hyside, Jacks Plastic Welding, and Sawyer oars are a few of the products we offer. Our retail inventory is limited but we can bring in most products in less than one week and frequently in three days.

How long have you been boating in Southern Oregon?

We have lived here for 8 years and enjoying the rivers here for about 12 years.

What’s the best aspect of the Rogue?

The diverse experiences that comes from boating in all four seasons.

Do you have a favorite spot on the Rogue?

I am always happy to be anywhere between the boat ramps. Specifically, I think Kelsey Canyon and Mule Creek Canyon are unique places that exemplify the beauty and experience the Rogue has to offer.

What is the Rogue community like?

There is a small world feeling about the entire rafting world and that is the case here as well.

Has the Rogue changed who you are?

The Rogue and all rivers have pushed both me and my wife, Maryanne, to where we are today. There is not a day that goes by without thinking about an experience that happened on a river trip or the next one to come.

What is the character of the Rogue River?

It has the full spectrum of traits. Calm, exciting, cold, hot, clear, and, muddy depending on the season and water levels.