There have been 17 paddlers rescued from the upper Saco River in the last 10 days.

Now, the Maine Warden Service is warning canoeists and kayakers on the river to use extreme caution because debris is blocking passage between miles 17 and 18.

High water along the upper Saco River has led to debris creating a nearly impassable obstruction.

Paddlers should come out of the river at the Lovewell Pond access site before reaching the obstructed area or portage their boat and gear before reaching the area.

The warden service is also urging canoe and kayak rental businesses to inform paddlers about the obstruction and how to avoid it.

“The Maine Warden Service encourages all paddlers to always wear their lifejackets when in a canoe, kayak and paddleboard and to never paddle alone,” the service noted in a news release. “Additional safety gear such as a throw rope and a throwable PFD is also recommended. Due to the highwater on the Saco, canoeists should be on the lookout for debris, downed trees called strainers that impede water flow and swifter currents.”