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Swiftwater Safety Suggestions |
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Written by Justin Herreman
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Tuesday, 18 May 2010 |
With many local creeks near flood stage and the weather warming up we remind local
boaters to paddle safely. Here are a few thoughts on that subject:
- If you're not prepared, stay out of the water!
- Engage your brain "before" putting on the water.
- Never paddle moving water alone: NEVER!
- If ANYONE in your group is uncomfortable with stream level or conditions, stay out of the water.
- If anyone becomes exhausted or uncomfortable with flows or conditions at any time, get them out of the water.
- "If in doubt, scout!" Know what is around the next corner TODAY or stop and find out.
- Respect the power of moving water, especially at high flows.
- Cold water affects your motor skills and coordination even when air temps are in the 80’s or 90’.
- Have and practice the skills, knowledge and experience to safely navigate hazards before paddling anywhere.
- Wear and use proper safety gear. Basic paddling safety gear (the first 5 are essential): |
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 20 May 2010 )
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Dressing For A Winter's Paddle |
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Written by Rochelle Plocek
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Monday, 17 November 2008 |
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When the snow flies and icicles hang from your porch, going paddling probably isn’t the first winter sport you think of. “Wait a minute,” you think, did she just call paddling a “winter sport.” Yes, I did and no, I’m not entirely crazy. Winter is a great time to get out on the water, even if it is cold and icy. Sure, it takes a little more preparation but with the right gear paddling in the winter can be as much fun as in the summer.
The old saying, “The clothes don’t make a man” doesn’t apply in this situation; in fact, it’s just the opposite. What you wear will determine whether you enjoy a day on the water or spend the day miserable and shivering. As with any other cold-weather activity, layering is the key but for paddling we add a few unique items. |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 17 November 2008 )
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Kayaking is the Secret……to Everything! |
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Written by Paulette Kirby
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Tuesday, 02 September 2008 |
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It seems that life is just better after a day of kayaking, and this year there have been so many grand days to kayak both new and old routes. Streamflows have been high. Some exciting new paddle-routes have been explored. A lot of great folks have taken up kayaking. Many new boaters purchased boats over the summer. Join them as they explore the joys of paddling. Getting wet is just part of the fun of this thrilling sport! One student this summer, after rolling and wet exiting (tipping over and falling out of) her kayak 6 times in one mile, was still smiling when asked, "Would you paddle again?" "Oh yeah!" was the unqualified response, and this new paddler proceeded to tell all the others in her group how much fun it was to kayak. |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 17 November 2008 )
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Whitewater Woes |
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Written by Justin Herreman
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Tuesday, 05 August 2008 |
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Whitewater season is officially closed; the dog days of summer are upon us! The heat of July and August are burning up the grass and evaporating our favorite creeks. What is an iterant boater to do? |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 17 November 2008 )
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Etiquette, Safety, Common Sense and the Law: |
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Written by Kelly
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Monday, 07 July 2008 |
Are they comfortable bed-fellows or feuding odd-fellows? All the water flowing out of the Black Hills this spring has made some good paddling! It has also raised the potential for tragedy and strained relations between paddlers and non-paddlers.  With the recent overnight thunderstorms, some of that good paddling might be back again! PLEASE! Whether you are grizzled old “Creeker” or a brand-new paddler; ENGAGE YOUR BRAIN before paddling!
Click "Read More" for some important information! |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 17 November 2008 )
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