[AFreeBird]

In Alaska we used jet boats in shallow rivers and creeks contending with rocks and gravel, also in flooded debris filled back waters, I never had a problem

Yea, but that's different than the kinds of debries floating around NOLA. Clothing, paper, plastics, wood, you name it...

[Ursus arctos horribilis]

OK, you have given all the reasons why it won't work. So, what are your recommendations for immediate rescue work?

All I have heard is they will have adequate resources on hand in a few days. The difference between life and death for many of the victims is not to be counted in days, but in minutes or hours.