Whitewater boating on the Upper Youghiogheny River became a world-class attraction after kayakers began running the Upper Yough in the 1970’s, and in 1981 Precision Rafting, the first commercial company, was formed in Friendsville to offer guided trips including for first-timers. In recent years, about 10,000 people have enjoyed the river annually, divided roughly equally between individual kayakers and guests on commercial trips. The adventure covers about a 10 mile run, launching near the Sang Run bridge and taking out in Friendsville, with the demanding Class IV/Class V rapids concentrated in a 5 mile middle stretch. Commercial trips use small rafts carrying 3 guests and a guide, built for agility and durability, and the river also hosts a nationally and internationally recognized kayaking competition each year. Deep Creek Lake is essential to these whitewater opportunities, because while late spring downstream flow can sometimes provide good conditions, the Class IV/Class V experience for which the Upper Yough is known generally depends on water released from the dam, passing through the hydroelectric power plant, and entering the river. Until 1994, boaters had to catch releases scheduled for power generation, but since 1994 a Water Appropriations Permit issued by the State of Maryland has ensured up to 64 scheduled whitewater releases annually from mid-April to mid-October, along with unscheduled releases whose times are publicized for interested boaters. Whitewater boating remains a distinctive outdoor adventure and an important attraction in Garrett County.