M INNESOTA
E-Paddler
April-May 2009 • Vol. 45 No. 3 • $2 • Official Publication of the Minnesota Canoe Association
Bob O’Hara Honored pages 4
Getting Involved pages 15
River Rambler Summer Trips pg 20
M I N N E S O TA
The Upper Midwest's Paddling Resource Official publication of the Minnesota Canoe Association, Inc.
Pa d d l e r Contact Information
See Yourself in Minnesota Paddler! Minnesota Paddler promotes paddling in
Editor (Send Minnesota Paddler articles to) Jay Hawkinson 715/426-1736 MCAeditor@canoe-kayak.org
the Upper Midwest, and supplies MCA members with useful and fun information about paddling. We welcome your paddling-related stories, articles, gear & book reviews, and photos. We’re especially interested in sharing information about upcoming events, good places to paddle, helpful tips and techniques, and interesting trips you’ve taken recently. Want to see your smiling face on the cover? It’s a little easier than seeing it on the cover of Rolling Stone. Just send the editor your photo(s) along with a story of what happened. Did you make the best whitewater maneuver of your life? Are you building your canoe from scratch? Send us a photo! Send the editor your plain text or Word files (for articles) and JPEGs (for photos). Please do not embed photographs in your Word documents; send them as separate attachments in the e-mail. E-mail your photos, articles, and stories to editor@canoe-kayak.org or mail electronic copies of them on CD to: Editor, Minnesota Paddler; PO Box 13567; Dinkytown Station; Minneapolis, MN 55414.
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For media kit, please contact the Advertising Manager (see above right). Page
Issue
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Inside 4 • Bob O’Hara Honored at Far North 6 • Proposed Merger of Wild and Scenic River/Shoreland Rules 6 • Proposed TMDL for Turbidity on the Lower Vermillion River 8 • Mankato Paddling & Outing Club 11 • Why Travel North 12 • Conducting a Safe Canoe Trip Into the Far North 14 • From the Stern 15 • Getting Involved
15 16 18 20 24 33 34 35
• • • • • • • •
Opportunity: Advertising Manager Elk River Spring Cruise Down the Creek in the Dark River Ramblers Summer Trips MCA Calendar MCA Application Minnesota Canoe Association Trading Post Photograph by David L. Conrad. River Ramblers on the Vermillion River, 2008
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http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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Bob O’Hara Honoured at Far North
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fter Bob introduced Lee Sessions as the supposed presenter for the Hood River trip, the game was on. With some help from Tom Mings and Randy Strobel, Lee’s first slide popped up after Bob’s introduction: it said, “We interrupt this program to bring you a surprise recognition for Bob O’Hara.” The Hood River was actually on the agenda, and Conrad Schiebel delivered a great presentation.... Plans for this were hatched over a year ago. A number of people gathered at Bob’s house at the last Far North Symposium and decided it would
be fun to recognize Bob this year, as this is Bob’s 50th year of paddling in the Boundary Waters. We all wanted to recognize his contributions to paddling, as he has so generously shared his knowledge and experience with hundreds, if not thousands of people over the years. A large number of Bob’s friends kept this a secret since January. We are happy the cat is out of the bag now. “Many of Bob’s trip partners contributed to a book of stories and memories since he has so generously shared his knowledge and experience with us and hundreds of others”
Dan Cooke, Bob O’Hara, David Burkhart, Brian Johnston, Tim Eaton, and Lee Sessions. Page
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
The lecture stage at Metro State filled with friends of Bob
noted Kay Getting who assembled the memory book spanning O’Hara’s 50 years of paddling. Lee Sessions delivered a 15 minute presentation at the beginning of the day and a group of Bob’s paddling friends presented him with a canoe paddle, a caricature and flag, several congratulatory notes and posters, and a memory book filled with photos and
stories from the canoeing community. Recognition of Bob’s contributions to wilderness canoeing and exploration of the Far North came from near and far. Bob was recognized by the MCA, YMCA camp Menogyn, Northern Tier High Adventure/Sommers CanoeBase, BSA, Canoeing.com, Les Voyageurs, the Canadian Heritage Rivers Association, and the prestigious Explorer’s Club.
Bob O’Hara speechless, for as moment. http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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Proposed Merger of Wild and Scenic River/ Shoreland Rules By Mel Baughman, MCA Conservation Director
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he Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites citizen feedback through April 17 on its proposed plan to incorporate the rules governing statedesignated wild and scenic rivers into new shoreland rules. This change will simplify the rules and eliminate rule duplication and inconsistency for local governments and natural resource managers. The potential merger would entail moving and renumbering the
statewide wild, scenic, and recreational river rules, as well as individual rules, for these six state-designated rivers: Kettle, Mississippi, North Fork of the Crow, Minnesota, Rum, and Cannon Rivers. Citizens may submit written or verbal comments to: Jenny Shillcox DNR Division of Waters Box 32 500 Lafayette Road St. Paul, MN 55155-4032 phone: 651-259-5727 shorelandupdate@dnr.state.mn.us.
While the purpose of the potential merger is primarily to move the WSR river rules without changing them, several material changes to WSR river rules could result from the merger. Potential changes include greater flexibility in local ordinance administration, imposition of impervious surface limits, and clearer guidance and standards for planned unit developments and conservation subdivisions. The DNR is also considering administrative changes including the review and certification of local land use decisions. More information on the potential merger is available online: www.dnr. state.mn.us/waters/watermgmt_ section /shoreland /shoreland _ rules_update_project.html.
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April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Proposed TMDL for Turbidity on the Lower Vermillion River By Mel Baughman, MCA Conservation Director
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he Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is requesting comments on the Total Maximum Daily Load for Turbidity in the Lower Vermillion River (LVR) Watershed. Aquatic life is impaired because the LVR does not meet water quality standards for turbidity. Both point and non-point sources of pollution contribute to this excess turbidity. A draft report is available at: www.pca.state.mn.us/water/tmdl/ tmdl-draft.html. Written comments on the TMDL Report must be sent by April 22 to: Justin Watkins MPCA – Southern Region 18 Wood Lake Drive SE Rochester, MN 55904 phone: 507-281-7763 justin.watkins@pca.state.mn.us. You also may request that the MPCA hold a public informational meeting. There are further guidelines for submitting written comments or requesting a public meeting.
Coming Soon to the DNR Water Trails Website • Subscribe to Audio Podcasts on 28 of Minnesota Water Trails • Subscribe to semi-annual Water Trails E-newsletter • List Your Paddling Event on a Schedule of Events • Report on Conditions on Water Trails • Volunteer to Provide Recreational Interpretation of River Level Gages
http://www.mndnr. gov/watertrails The functions might not be up and running when you receive this issue of the Mn Paddler, but will be coming soon over the course of the next couple of months.
metropolitan area. Its 59 mile course begins in southeastern Scott County, near New Market and ends at the Mississippi River, south of Lock and Dam Three. The river below Hastings is popular with whitewater kayakers.
The Vermillion River Watershed is located southeast of the Twin Cities http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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Report
from
Mankato Paddling & Outings Club by Brand Frentz
By Brand Frentz, MPOC Secretary
W
ably will go out like a lion. You can almost count on it.
inter on the Southern Prairie has come and So most of the action was gone and come and gone indoors. The favorite trip meeting again. It has been like watching a (where members tell about their game of ping-pong – here it comes, most interesting, whoops, there it goes unusual, or fun again! Most people experiences in I asked are tired of 2008) saw a full it: cold December, range of stories. early January thaw Local? A trip wiping out record down the Blue snowpack, then Earth Gorge Deep Freeze (72 that identified hours below zero – 14 waterfalls. for here that’s cold) Exotic? An in mid-January, MPOC member some more winter walking the Great until early February Brand Frentz is the Secretary of the Wall of China! when another thaw Mankato Paddling & Outings Club. And everything in opened the small rivbetween, including ers feeding the Blue Earth. It Alaska, the Canyonlands region, broke open and began rising, and and a live demonstration of a new paddlers perked up (two brightly Cabela’s one-man tent. colored kayaks were seen playing in the open water of the Blue Earth at But there was even more food Sibley Park). No luck, more cold for the armchair paddler, the and snow, then more warm, and winter dreamer, in the program now it’s a muddy, damp March 5 presented in February by author (the deadline for the MN Paddler). Rob Kesselring. Rob is the Great March came in like a lamb, probPage
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Northern Traveler; he has made 15 canoe trips above 60 degrees North and speaks with real authority. The subject was his 2008 expedition on the Mara-Burnside river system, which flows into Bathurst Inlet on the Arctic Ocean in Nunavut. His pictures showed us the endless flat landscapes of the barren lands, cut by low-ridged valleys and a river with plenty of whitewater. The trip began at ice-out, in July, and was the earliest known descent. Oh, and caribou … for days they saw none and wondered if they had missed the herd; then they saw thousands and thousands and wondered if the
herd would ever end. The talk drew the largest crowd in memory. They had plenty of questions for Rob afterward and plenty of images and ideas to take home for contemplation. But at some point the winter will end once and for all. Maybe it already has. I know that a lot of MOPC members are looking fondly at their boats, hefting favorite paddles, and eagerly awaiting the new season. We’ve listed some club trips on the MCA calendar – come join us!
Left to right: Lindsay Wood-Davis, Board Chair of the River Alliance, Dave Shanteau, MCA Safety Director, Denny Caneff, Executive Director, and Gary Hennes, MCA Membership Director. Dave and Gary went down to Canoecopia at Madison to visit with the River Alliance of Wisconsin and check out the progress on the old Chestnut canoe from the MCA. http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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Don’t Miss: The Midwest Mountaineering
J
April 24-26 Friday, 4-9 Sat. 9-6 Sun. 11-5 Closed Wed. at 5pm thru Fri. at 4pm for Expo set-up.
oin all of your like-minded outdoor friends at the Midwest Mountaineering store, the big-top tents and the University of Minnesota campus for
OVER Exhibitors, OVER Presentations, including the MCA
Radical Reels Film Festival, and the world’s biggest Canoe and Kayak Auction. Plus huge canoe / kayak demo on Thurs. 3pm-8pm at Lake Nokomis. Featuring paddlesport presentations by: Bear Paulsen, Lena Conlan, Grant Herman, Cliff Jacobson, Erik Wrede, Heather Cichanowski, Steve Scherrer, Dale Cox, Rob Kesselring, BruceHyer, Phil Cotton, Amy Voytilla, Lee Frelich, Betsy Daube, Kim McClusky, Stu Ostoff, Bert Heep, Kevin Callan, Doug Gilmore, Valerie Fons and MORE!
And EVERYTHING
Details in the mail April 1st to all on our mail list or @ www.midwestmtn.com starting late March. 309 Cedar Ave. So. Minneapolis, Minnesota 55454
1-888-999-1077 612-339-3433 Locally owned and operated since 1971
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April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Why Do People Travel North? By Bob O’Hara
People travel the arctic for many reasons: Adventure, Escape, Personal Challenge, Solitude, Seek Knowledge, Cultural Awareness, Isolation, Retrace previous Explorers (History), Introspection, Love of Travel, Love of White Water, Love of the Outdoors. “Arctic travel is more of an endorphin high rather than an adrenaline rush” Jerry Kobalenko from the Horizontal Everest (Canadian Geographic March/April 2002 ) Defining a sense of purpose: “For some of us, what Inuit call a journey in pursuit of its tail-one that has no purpose other than its own completion-holds more meaning than practical goals.” J.K. What has changed: Canoes: wood & canvas–has changed to–Aluminum and Poly, Royalex, KevlarComposites. Paddles: wood, straight shaft–have changed to–bent shaft, carbon fiber, etc. Tents: canvas, with no floor–have been replaced with–nylon tents, using bendable poles, with floors and mosquito netting. Packs: canvas–are now–nylon and various kinds of boxes or barrels. Life Jackets: no PDFs –has changed to–body fitting foam. Sleeping Bags: down, early fiber fill–has changed to–thin synthetic fibers, nylon or breathable shells, foam pads for insulation. Food: dried-bulk, flour, rice, beans–has been replaced by–freeze dried, new choices of dried foods. More variety, better packaging, bigger selection. Stoves: limited stoves or fires–have changed to–small/compact stoves, that burn hot, using a variety of fuels. Clothes: cotton & wool–have been replaced with–many new fabrics including wicking underwear goretex, polar fleece and improved footwear. Cameras: clunky with low speed film–are now–single lens reflex, high speed film or digital. Also, video instead of movie film. The Land: scattered people, with limited outside influence–are now mixed with– established settlements, mining of minerals & diamonds, lodges & outfitters. http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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Conducting a Safe Canoe Trip Into the Far North Notes from Bob O’Hara
T
here are a number of considerations to explore when organizing a canoe trip of your own into the far North of Canada. The following are not in any order of importance, for all are equally important. CREW SELECTION Many a trip has had problems because the crew was not compatible. You must work as a cohesive group with a common goal. Choose carefully. You will live very close to each other in an isolated area. FINANCES You do not have to travel in style, but skimping on the basics is an invitation for disaster. Take the trip that you can afford or save until it is possible. Nothing replaces good equipment, adequate food, supplies and safe canoes to travel in. Each of these has a cost.
The more the better. In your crew you need a navigator, a cook, a medic, a dishwasher, paddlers with canoe skills to match the river (flat or white water), an organizer, an improviser, a storyteller- musician, joke teller, photographer. NAVIGATIONAL AIDS Good and up to date maps including some or all 1:50,000 topo series. More than one set, also an alternate route. Bring a GPS and compass. EMERGENCIES A good medical First Aid kit, Satellite phone, PLB(personal locator beacon), signal mirror, smoke flares. Possibly a legal gun. (rifle or shotgun) The knowledge of how to deal with an emergency of a medical nature, broken canoe, lost equipment, being way overdue, food shortage. Register your trip with the RCMP or similar authority EQUIPMENT continued on page 13
SKILLS
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April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
continued from page 12
Must be new or in excellent working condition. Must be designed for your specific type of trip. You must know how to use it. You may need a repair kit or spare parts to fix items.. You need to work off checklists to be all inclusive. It must safely fit into your canoe. Many groups have problems because of ill selected equipment, loss of equipment or destruction due to wear on the trip. FSC–FOOD, SHELTER, CLOTHING The big three, keeps you warm, and protected. Must be ample for your type of trip. Essential to maintain a clear state of mind. Make good investments and plan for an increased caloric intake. Stay warm, dry and well fed. Conditions change fast in August so be prepared. Plan for lots of hot fluids. Carry extra died soup/tea. Some key items you will need Tent with excellent fly for wind and rain. Must have netting for bugs. Needs to be low to the ground but have sufficient room to sit up in.
effort to stay clean. Wool or polar fleece jackets, vests. Cook kits with sufficient pot space, stove, gas, repair kit, utensils. Insulated mugs, bowls and associated spices. Saw if in wooded area. Tarp for weather: sun-rain-wind. Possibly a screen tent. Canoes with covers. Lining ropes with low attachment, possibly knee pads, thigh straps. Good paddles, proper size. Bent and straight shaft. Ability to waterproof food, either with heat sealing, seal tight bags, tight sealing buckets or barrels. Keep your essential foods dry. Consider a small reference library: birds, flowers, history of river etc. Camera-digital or film ( 200/400 ASA.) Two zoom lenses 20-85 mm, and 75-300 mm work well, pack in a waterproof container. Waterproof your maps (paint on Thompsons water seal).
Full sized thermarest type pad. Warm, synthetic/down sleeping bag. Bring a folding foam chair for your back.
Personal medications waterproofed, with extras in another canoe. See your doctor for help with a First Aid Kit, which must be waterproof.
Rubber/Chota boots, hiking boots, warm socks, wind pants, wind anorak. Warm headgear and headgear for sun. Poly underwear, gloves, mittens. Bug jacket of some kind. Sunglasses, lip balm, personal hygiene items. Make an
Repair kit with tape, glue, wire, epoxy, pins, etc. Crew Concerns Develop a communication mechanism. Possibly a chain of
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
continued on page 16 Page 13
From the Stern By Jay Hawkinson
These days I am not sure if I should be writing ‘From the Bow’ or ‘From the Stern’. As the Vice-President I am trying to back-up Tom Mings as the President. I guess this means I could be writing the bow piece. However, while editing the newsletter the stern article still feels valid. Getting on with the news.... Pam McDonald is resigning from the position of Advertising Manager after 7 years. She has done a great job and we will all miss her. In this hard economy, I am glad to hear that she is too busy at work to continue volunteering for the club. The alternative is not very pleasant. This leaves the club looking for a new Advertising Manager. We are very fortunate that Pam is willing help the next person to get started. Andy Bergstrom has stepped in to the position of Treasurer. He may need some help with the calendar. We are always open to what people are doing around the state. If you know about an event, please let us know. Carl Shaffer has come forward to be the Racing Director. He has been racing canoes for years and knows much of the community. I look forward to hearing his suggestions. He has already shown good insight and has brought new ideas to the board. Don Ternes has volunteered to work as the Building Director. We get plenty of requests for help. He is now surveying the clubs assets. Being ‘between jobs’ myself, I was hoping to work on the MCA web site. Maybe learn a little HTML Page 14
and improve my web design skills. However, it was pointed out, that I may be spreading my time too thin and far. This may become especially true when I get back to work. So, we will be leaving the web site to Joe Conrad and the help he has hired. The club works best with a variety of people. A mix of talent following some sort of central plan. Not a handful of individuals, each with a private plan and their own interests. So, I am more than willing in to follow the board. Furthermore, no single person should try and carry the club. This burns out precious volunteers. And martyrs are no fun to be around. I am out of photographs for the newsletter. We could really use some new material. If you are interested in getting out, the club is looking for people. We would love to see some of the experienced paddlers in the community host a cruise or a day trip. Share your experience, meet some new people. We could also use some people to introduce paddling to newcomers. We often get requests from new paddlers looking for somebody to paddle with. Also, there are a lot of community events that are happening on and around the water. From dragon boat festivals to community races. It would be great to join in and let others know about the Minnesota Canoe Association. Dave Shanteau is always looking for instructors. If becoming a certified ACA instructor piques your interest, give Dave a call. Let’s share the work, make the jobs easier and have some fun. I hope to see Pam and all of you on the water this summer.
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Getting Involved Citizen Monitoring Open House The in Brown-NicolletCottonwood Water Quality Board is looking for 15 volunteers to help assess the streams in the Middle Minnesota River Watershed. This is covering an area from Le Sueur to Morton along the Minnesota River. Please forward this invitation to any individuals or groups that might be interested. • Thursday, April 16th at 7:00 p.m. in the New Ulm Civic Center, room 203 • All interested parties should contact: Ed Hohenstein with the BNC WQB • For more details, 507-934-4140 or http://mavdisk.mnsu.edu/ kudels/volunteerinvitation.pdf.
DNR Seeks Volunteers for Frog, Toad Survey St. Paul, Minn. (AP)
The Nongame Wildlife Program and the state Department of Natural Resources are recruiting volunteers to help with a statewide frog- and toadcalling survey. Since 1996, volunteers have collected data by listening to and identifying frog and toad species. The results show where species are located and how their populations change. Volunteers are especially needed in the southwest portion of the state for this year’s survey, which begins April 15. Volunteers would make stops along their assigned routes and listen for calls to identify frogs and toads on three nights a year, during specified periods. Volunteers get a CD of Minnesota frog and toad species’ calls, a map of their routes and instructions to get started. To volunteer, contact Krista Larson by e-mail at krista.larson@dnr. state.mn.us (source, Minnesota Public Radio)
Opportunity: Advertising Manager From Pam McDonald I joined the MCA in 2002. While improving my paddling skills at Canoe-U. I met some great folks who were involved in various roles supporting the organization. Interested to become more involved in the organization and the paddling community I volunteered for the Advertising Manager position. It’s a great opportunity to be involved without making a significant time or schedule commitment. No marketing or advertising experience necessary. It takes less than 2 hours a month. If you are interested to know more, please call 612-618-0308 or E-mail MCAadvertising@canoe-kayak.org. Thank You. http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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Elk River Spring Cruise By Gary Hennes
E
lk River day trip on Saturday May 2nd. This cruise will start approximately 9 miles upriver from the town of Elk River. The Elk is a quiet woodland river tailor-made for a day’s paddle. The river glides through several shallow riffles and passes marshes, rolling hills, and forested bluffs. This trip combines both river paddling and lake paddling. We will be paddling approximately 8 miles, putting in at the canoe landing at the end of 166th street and then paddling down river to Orono Lake. Meet at Orono Lake Beach at 9:30 am and The Park is on the west side of the town of Elk River, on your left just past the bridge over that part of Lake Orono (actually a dammed up portion of the Elk River).
due to the high traffic in the area (US Hwy 10) and the probability that development will have obscured the directions to the put-in from last year. Be prepared to double up or load your gear onto a trailer so we can minimize the number of vehicles going up to the put-in. Lunch will probably be in the area of the Wapiti Park Campground, about mid-way. This is a River Ramblers trip; anyone is welcome to join us. If you are interested please contact Gary Hennes: Office: (763)537-2945 ext. 203 Home: (763)425-5645 E-mail: gary@pipmicrobyte.com
Wolf River Guides White Water Canoe And Kayak School
We will be using a reverse shuttle,
Beginning Kayak & Canoe Classes continued from page 16
command. Have common goals. Have time on task and time off. Be realistic about miles you can travel in a day. Be flexible on when you may have to sleep and paddle. Stay on focus as to why you came. Enjoy to the max for you may never be back. Accept the weather for what it is. Enjoy wildlife when it presents itself. If you want to see the land, you need to walk it. Page 16
Tripping Whitewater Classes River Rescue Kids Classes Advanced Playboating Look us up on the web at: www.wolfriverguides.com or call us at: 715-882-3002
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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Map courtesy of Lynn Diebel, “Paddling Southern Minnesota”, Trail Books
Down the Creek in the Dark By Joe Conrad
T
he Kinnickinnic River below River Falls, Wisconsin is a scratchy run in low water and more hazardous in higher water. Yet it’s sudden vistas around sharp corners, it’s sheltered mini-valleys and high cliffs, and rather wild character invite paddlers to escape the mundane world any time of year….or day. Charlie Rader and I have run the Kinnickinnic together a couple of times. First time was his double canoe... more durable than mine. Good thing. We planned to start at 4:00 PM. (Standard time.... late Fall) He had an appointment that went late—and it dragged on. We started about 5:30 PM....very close to sundown. We went off at speed, thinking to have yet some daylight. However, before we were halfway down, it was full way dark. I was in bow. Once, going along the more undercut bank, I yelled, “Tree!”, and dropped backwards into the canoe as this 6 inch horizontal trunk appeared 2 feet from my face. I feared Charles could not flop backwards in the stern, as I had just flopped into the bottom of the canoe. Somehow he made it—and maintained steerage. My life jacket felt quite snug and nice. We started going more slowly then...and also tended to keep close to the shallow sides of the river. The faint yellow of dead weeds helped our vision and the sandbars there Page 18
would reveal their presence by a slightly lighter shade of ebony. It was better to risk grounding out than to risk a sudden blow to the face by a tree. Needless to say, we saw no birds, deer, otter, beaver or other wildlife. At one point he asked me if I had a flashlight. No. I did have my cell phone and the screen is so bright that I wondered if it would help. Holding the open phone screen pointed down stream? And still do a quick draw stroke? Hmmm, no. So I didn’t try it. Now here is a new guide for gear…a simple LED light clipped to the life jacket. Cliff Jacobson, are you listening? From many former runs down the river, both of us had a good feel for the general character of the gravel bars, the rocks, the major sharp turns and rapids as well as the cut banks where trees became river strainers. Most important was that Charlie had been down at least twice that summer and had a younger man’s short term memory of the major tree blocks. If it had been me that had done the summer runs, my brain would have conflated them with trips 30 years previous. Feel for the river is what it was. There were dense clouds in the west, so we had virtually no dusk and no sky light. The river helped with gurgles and burbles when rocks were ahead.... and we did graze a few....but no horror shows. Once, we grounded out and had
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
to wade. Charlie’s memory got us out of the canoe early for successful lifts around a couple of serious major trees. No other trees materialized at head level. We finally reached the sounds of the weeping cliffs near the end of the run. The dribbling trickles were music to our ears. Soon we could relax with the canoe on the bank. Charlie’s wife, Nancy was waiting, as arranged, in the parking lot at the County F bridge. What she might have been thinking with her beloved still on the river an hour after darkness with an unknown old river rodent, I can only guess. They are a quiet couple, pretty non-flappable. I could only hear a subdued sort of silence between them as we loaded the canoe between the necessary “lift here, tie
there” statements and then drove home. However, I had to wonder what she might have had to say later about his sanity and/or ask about my evil influence on his otherwise good judgment. But such is the Kinnickinnic. Light, dark, sheltered, mysterious, sunlit and shadowed, playful, yet dangerous in its ever changing cut banks and strainer trees, gravel bars and fast rocky ripples and drops. It has claimed only one life in the last forty years, and that in strange circumstances. I can say now, that it is runnable in the dark...at least the lower half.... in low water… by experienced paddlers, familiar with the river... with excellent night vision... a sturdy canoe…and good luck (lots of that).
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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River Ramblers Summer Trips 2009 SUMMER WHITE WATER JULY 11-12, BRULE RIVER, Class 4C - 1K (Kayaking, must reserve early) Have you ever thought you would like to try kayaking? The Brule is the place to be on this weekend for rookie and veteran alike. There’s no need to cart your equipment around, we have an outfitter to do it for us. The outfitter provides: kayak, paddle, life jacket, spray skirt, helmet and shuttle service. All you need to bring is your camping gear. Every year, beginners try kayaking and have fun on the river. Being a daredevil is not required, just an ordinary person who wants to try something new. On Saturday we put in on an easier section of the river to get the feel for currents and mild rapids. The entire Saturday trip takes about four hours, which allows time at the campground for a fire as well as a swim in a beautiful lake. Sunday we run several enjoyable rapids. Cost for the Saturday night camping fee and kayak rental for two days has been approximately $55. For guaranteed spots reserve four (4) weeks prior to trip; later reservations ONLY if space is available. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: RON DAHL AT 952-888-4797
2009 SUMMER QUIET WATER TRIPS JUNE 6, ZUMBRO, Class 1C - 1K The Zumbro is a scenic river with an active current, and easy Class 1 rapids. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the occasional bluff, and other natural scenery. This is a great trip, just 70 miles south of the cities. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: KEVIN HANNON AT 612-824-2241 JUNE 13, CROW WING RIVER, Class 1C - 1K This river is easy enough for beginners and family groups but scenic enough to attract the most experienced paddlers. Other than county parks and a few cabins, there is relatively little shoreline development. The Saturday route flows through sandbanks and evergreens while the Sunday section is mostly hardwood bottom-lands, creating the impression of paddling two different rivers. We will be car camping in one of the county parks on the riverbank. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: TOM MINGS 651-460-4096 June 20 & 21, UPPER ST. CROIX RIVER, Class 1C-1K The Upper St. Croix offers something for everyone: Beautiful scenery, swim spots, novice rapids, slow currents, and free camping. Saturday, the lazy paddling from Riverside to just above St. Croix State Park takes about 4 hours. Here the river offers a current strong enough for an easy paddle most of the way. The clear water and sandy bottom allow swimming almost at will. Sunday, the trip on the Lower continued on page 21 Page 20
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
continued from page 20
Namekagon from the Namekagon Trail Bridge back to Riverside features small rapids and easy paddling through heavily wooded wilderness. This section takes about 3 hours. The estimated times include time for a lunch stop each day. You may camp either at Riverside or Old Howell Landing on this trip. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: JOE REISCHEL AT 651-702-1136 JUNE 27, KINNICKINNIC RIVER, Class 1C-1K Just East of St Paul, and across the St Croix River into Wisconsin. This river is just south of Hudson. Nice easy paddling extremely close to the Twin Cities. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: HANK WELLS AT 651-638-1913 JULY 4 & 5, ROOT, Class 1C-1K The Root River has a gentle to moderate flow with a few riffles. The water level varies substantially with rainfall. This trip offers you the opportunity to paddle, bike and tour lovely Lanesboro (which is south east of Rochester Minnesota). The Root River winds through towering bluffs and wooded rolling hills. Camping is recommended at Eagle Cliff Camp Grounds, where you will need to be responsible for your own reservations. FMI AND A TRIP PACK CALL: VICKI CHAMPEAU AT 651-351-1324 JULY 11, MIDDLE ST. CROIX RIVER, Class 2C-1K The Middle St. Croix offers a beautiful section of the river with great scenery and a few rapids to keep things interesting. If water levels are too low, an alternate trip is planned. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: MARY HOFFMAN AT 612-327-2311 JULY 18 & 19, LOWER NAMEKAGON RIVER, Class 1C-1K The Lower Namekagon offers a slow pace to give you time to enjoy the scenery, bask in the warmth, observe the animals, and celebrate the hazy days of summer. Saturday, we will be canoeing the shallow, sandy-bottomed section downstream from the campsite. Lunch will be at a halfway point where there are picnic tables, or you may sit on the bridge and watch other canoes float by. After lunch, we will be going past the highest sand dune in northern Wisconsin. We will also have many swim stops where the water deepens. Saturday evening we will have time at the campsite for renewing old friendships and reminiscing around the fire. On Sunday, we will put in upstream and paddle back, after a lunch/swim stop, to the campsite take-out. Camping will be at the Howell Landing group campsite. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: JOE REISCHEL AT 651-702-1136 JULY 25, LOWER CANNON RIVER, Class 1C-1K This trip is a two-for-one special! We will be paddling two rivers: downstream on the Cannon from Welch to the confluence with the Vermillion and upstream through quiet forests on the Vermillion to the takeout. This stretch of river is new to the schedule and should avoid tubers and traffic from the outfitter in Welch. Come explore the Cannon River delta! continued on page 22 http://www.canoe-kayak.org
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continued from page 21
FMI AND A TRIP PACK CALL: MARK DEBOER AT 952-926-4675 August 1, RED CEDAR RIVER, Class 1C-1K This river is about a 1.5 to 2 hour drive from the Twin Cities. We will be paddling from Riverside Park in Menomonie to the County Road Y Bridge near Dunnville (approximately 14 river miles or 4 hours). This river offers sections of fast moving water for the beginner as well as the experienced canoeist to have fun paddling. Bring a lunch for a mid-trip break. Wildlife abounds along the river, so bring your camera or binoculars. After take-out, we will visit “The Creamery” in Downsville for dessert. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: HANK WELLS AT 651-638-1913 August 8 & 9, UPPER CHIPPEWA RIVER, Class 1C-1K Come paddle in the beautiful Northern Highlands Region of Wisconsin. This 11 mile section of the Chippewa is described in the Rusk County brochure as “one of the clearest and most prestigious rivers in the State.” The scenery is woods with a few scattered but unobtrusive houses. The river has a good current, but is suitable for beginners, and features many attractive wooded islands. Bring lunch for a half-way stop. The estimated drive time from the metro area is about two hours. The mileage from the Wisconsin state line at Taylor’s Falls is about 67 miles to the meeting place near Bruce, and another 11 miles to the put in just above Imalone. There are many inviting natural attractions in this area. Camping options are available for Friday or Saturday nights. This trip has been extended to be two days, with the details for the second day not finalized, when this needed to go to press. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CONTACT: SEPTEMBER STEINOLFSON AT 952-934-7278 AUGUST 15 & 16, UPPER NAMEKAGON RIVER, Class 1C-1K The Upper Namekagon between Hayward and Earl, Wisconsin has a swift current with a series of moderate (Class I-II) rapids - just enough to keep it enjoyable. This is the section that has the old osprey/eagle’s nest atop a high power line pole right at rivers edge. We have been fortunate almost every year with seeing at least one osprey Would you like to get the or one eagle, and sometimes the parents. newsletter as a PDF file Bring your camera and telephoto lens to sent to your E-mail? capture the beauty of one of America’s most scenic wild rivers. Wildlife abounds If yes, please respond to on this trip, and if you and others are not MCAeditor@canoe-kayak.org. making too much noise, deer are often This will be an opt-in only. seen. Saturday night we lounge around the rustic campground at Earl that is encircled The printed copy will continue by the river. The current is slow here to be mailed out.
MCA Newsletter in Your E-mail
continued on page 23
Page 22
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
continued from page 22
giving children of all ages the opportunity to step into the river on the front side of the camp and float (body surf) a good quarter mile and then step out at the backside of the campground. What a way to relax before snuggling into your sleeping bag. We will be canoeing for about 4 hours each day. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: JOE REISCHEL AT 651-702-1136 AUGUST 22, LOWER CHIPPEWA RIVER, Class 1C-1K The lower part of the Chippewa is a scenic river with pretty hills that become more prominent as you near the Mississippi River. The river has a sandy bottom with a steady current strong enough for easy paddling. Numerous sand bars offer great opportunities to play in the water. Pack a lunch for a mid-trip snack. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: TOM MINGS AT 651-460-4096 SEPTEMBER 5, UPPER CANNON RIVER, Class 1C - 1K This is a trip for the whole family; for everyone who enjoys the scenery and wildlife that only a river can provide. Below Faribault the Cannon twists and turns, at times wide and quiet, at times narrow and fast on its way to Northfield. In many places trees overhang the river forming a lacy green canopy. Along this 6- hour trip, bank swallows dart into cliffs of sandstone and limestone, oxbow ponds harbor wood ducks, teal, and mallards. Bring your camera. If the river is low, we will paddle from Northfield on down. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: RON DAHL AT 952-888-4797 September 12, MINNESOTA RIVER, Class 1C-1K Come paddle the river that was named after this great state. Wide and scenic with plenty of wildlife, this river flows through the south metro and should have much less water than when run in the spring. It is only a short drive from the Twin Cities metro area. We will be paddling from Thompson Ferry Unit to Highway 41 in Chaska, a section with little visible development along the river. Paddle both the spring and fall trips and see how the river changes through the season. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: MARK DEBOER AT 952-926-4675 SEPTEMBER 19, ZUMBRO RIVER, Class 2C - 1K, (River Ramblers’ Fall Color Trip) The Zumbro is a scenic river with an active current and easy Class I rapids. This trip may overlap the trip that was done in June but this time the trees might be in fall color. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the oranges, reds, yellows (if it is an early fall), and the occasional bluff. This is a great trip, just 70 miles south of the cities. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: MARY HOFFMAN AT 612-327-2311 SEPTEMBER 25-27, KICKAPOO, Class 2C - 2K This is the Steuben trip resurrected. It is a 5 to 5 1/2 hour drive to get to Steuben. http://www.canoe-kayak.org
continued on next page Page 23
Steuben is located twenty miles into Wisconsin from the Mississippi River between La Cross and Prairie du Chien. Because of the long drive time I suggest that you take at least a half day off of work on Friday. Camping will be in the Steuben town park (only fee is if you need electricity). Saturday we have three trip length options, a 7 hour paddle, a 5 hour paddle, or a 4 hour paddle. A reliable source told me that a lot of the trees that used to obstruct the river has been removed by floods the past two years. Saturday night can be spent in either of the two bars in town. Sunday we will go to Readstown and have breakfast and then to Ontario for a short paddle and then head home. FMI AND A TRIP PACKET CALL: HARLAN NICKERSON AT 763-535-1373
mca
Calendar
Send calendar additions/corrections to the Calendar Editor listed on the inside front cover. For the latest Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
4-April
Trip
Rivers Ramblers
Minnesota, 1C-1K, White Water
Mark Debohr (952) 926-4675
5-April
Pool Session
Rapids Riders
5:00 - 7:00 PM $10/boat. Brooklyn Center pool.
www.rapidsriders.org
7-9 April
Canoe Paddle Workshop
Urban Boat Builder
6:00-9:00 PM, Build your own canoe paddle, Expedition Room, at Midwest Mountaineering
www.urbanboatbuilders. org, www.midwestmtn.com
11-April
Trip
Rivers Ramblers
Rice Creek, 2C-2K, White Water
Ron Dahl (952) 888-4797
13-April
Social Dinner
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Bascali’s Brick Oven. Get together and talk about kayaking. Nonmembers welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
14-April
Dressing for Cold Weather Paddling
Midwest Mountainering
6:30 PM Learn how to dress for a variety of weather conditions. Jerome Rausch in the Expedition Room.
www.midwestmtn.com
18-April
Trip
River Ramblers
Snake River, 2C-2K White Water
Jim Krueger (763) 784-5319
18-April
Race
Wisconsin Canoe Racing Association
Burlington C1 Pursuit Challenge, C1-K1 marathon race, no open class. Burlington, WI.
http://www.c1pursuit.com/
19-April
Skill Session
Inland Sea Kayakers
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Cold Water Immersion
www.inlandseakayakers. org
Page 24
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
21-April
Boundary Water Advisory Committe Volunteer Training
Midwest Mountainering
6:00 PM, Learn how the BWAC clears and preserves hiking trails in the BWCA. Presentaions, opportunities, and trail safety, Expedition Room.
bwac.homestead.com
23-April
Boat Demo
Midwest Mountainering
3:00 - 8:00 PM, Factory reps with canoes and kayaks. Lake Nokomis, NW beach.
www.outdooradventureexpo.com
23-April
Solo Canoe Control
Midwest Mountainering
3 classes: 4:00 PM, 5:15 PM, 6:30 PM, Dan Cooke will teach how to coax the most out of every stroke. Preregistration required, limited to 7 participants. Lake Nokomis, NW beach.
www.midwestmtn.com, 612-339-3433
23-April
Efficient Tandem Canoe Paddling
Midwest Mountainering
2 classes: 4:30 PM & 7:00 PM, Mike Cichanowski, founder of Wenonah Cannoe will teach paddling techniques. Preregistration required, limited to 11 participants. Lake Nokomis.
www.midwestmtn.com, 612-339-3433
24-26 April
Outdoor Adventure Expo
Midwest Mountaineering
Exhibitors, Presentations, Film Festival and canoe/ kayak auction.
www.outdooradventureexpo.com
25-April
Trip
Rivers Ramblers
Flambeau River, 2C-2K White Water
Ron Dahl (952) 888-4797
25-April
Race
Wisconsin Canoe Racing Association
Manitowish Waters Paddling Criterium, Point to point down the Manitowish, Pro C-1+2 and CanoeFrontier_MP 11/13/06 6:44 PM Page 1 & kayak. amateur canoe
Allen Limberg, 715-845-1637, callmeal57@charter.net, badgerevents.com
www.canoefrontier.com • 1-866-285-8618 Provincial Parks week long packages Albany – $285 Otoskwin – $330 Canoe Rental Pipestone – $400 ! Also Available Keezhik/Albany – $512 Winisk/Polar Bear Park – $1625 (Rates based on per person, party of 6, plus tax and include flights and shuttle.)
Canoe Frontier EXPEDITIONS • BROOK TROUT ADVENTURES PICKLE LAKE, ONTARIO CANADA
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
Ontario’s True North Page 25
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
25-April
Race
Pewaukee Kinwanis
Kiwanis River Run, All types of paddle craft on the Pewaukee River.
Mary Krasinski (262) 691-4693, Kras42@aol.com
26-April
Race
Grafton Jaycees
Grafton River Race, recreational and touring canoes. Fredonia to Grafton, WI.
Lara Zwick, 262/377-5327, latidas@aol.com, www .graftonjaycees.org
25-April
Race
Sheldon Canoe Races, Jump River to Sheldon, multiple classes.
info@ruskcounty.org, (615) 452-5639
28-29 April
First Aid / WFR Recert Course Part 1
Wilderness Medical Institute & Crossing Latitudes
WMI Of NOLS Wilderness First Aid / WFR recert course. Bloomington, MN at the Hyland Lake Park Visitor Center. Pre-registraion required.
http://wmi.nols.edu, (406) 585-5356 info@crossinglatitudes. com
30-April
Trip
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
5:45 PM Three Rivers trip, easy float.
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
1-3 May
Race & Rodeo
Kettle River Paddle Festival III
Down river race and kayak rodeo. Sandstone, MN
Tony Vavricka; www. kettleriverpaddlefest.com; tonyvav@excite.com
2-May
Trip
River Ramblers
Elk River, 1C-1K
Gary Hennes (763) 425-5645
2-May
Trip
River Ramblers
Kettle River, 4C-3K White Water
Ron Dahl (952) 888-4797
2-May
Race
Snake River Canoe Club
28th Snake River Canoe Race, Mora Minnesota.
skimora@gmail.com, (320) 679-4748, www. snakerivercanoerace.org
2-May
Race
Bear Paw Outdoors
Marge Cline Memorial Spring River Race, slaom and downriver race. Wolf River, WI
info@bearpawoutdoors. com, www.bearpawout doors.com
2-3 May
First Aid / WFR Recert Course Part 2
Wilderness Medical Institute & Crossing Latitudes
WMI Of NOLS Wilderness First Aid / WFR recert course. Wilderness Inquiry HQ in Minneapolis, MN.
http://wmi.nols.edu, (406) 585-5356 info@crossinglatitudes. com
19-April
Skill Session
Inland Sea Kayakers
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM “As If” Drill
www.inlandseakayakers. org
5-May
Deadline
Minnesota Paddler
Article Submission and Advertisement Deadline for June/July Minnesota Paddler and Trading Post.
MCAeditor@canoe-kayak. org
6-May
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
7-May
Board Meeting
Inland Sea Kayakers
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, REI Bloomington Community Room. All Club memebrs welcome!
www.inlandseakayakers. org
Page 26
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
8-May
Clean-Up
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
1:00 pm Spring clean-up on the LeSueur River
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
9-May
Clean-Up
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
9:00 AM Spring clean-up on the Blue Earth River
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
9-May
Trip
River Ramblers
Rum River, 1C-1K
Mary Hoffman (612) 327-2311
9-May
Trip
Inland Sea Kayakers
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spring Flora Trip
Carolyn, kayakfurlong@ hotmail.com
13-May
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
16-May
Trip
River Ramblers
Lower Minnehaha Creek, 2C-2K
Mark Deboer (952) 926-4675
16-May
Family Event
RamseyWashington Metro Watershed District
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Lake Phalen, St. Paul Exhibits, skits, canoe rides, fishing lessons & activities
www.rwmwd.org
16-May
Race
Buttercup Series
Apple River Slalom, Somerset, WI.
bolte@pressenter.com; www.swswis.com/buttercup
16-17 May
Class
Rapids Riders
Canoe-U Weekend
www.rapidsriders.org
16-17 May
Festival
Laacke & Joys
Paddlefest, Demos, reps, clinics. Milwaukee, WI
www.paddlefest.net
18-May
Program: Home-Built Boats And Paddles
Inland Sea Kayakers
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, REI Building methods and design for home-built boats and paddles.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
19-May
Outing
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
5:45 PM Swan Lake is a bird watchers paradise.
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
20-May
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
23-May
Trip
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
LeSueur River, some mild rapids.
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
23-24 May
Trip
River Ramblers
Vermillion River, 3K-4R White Water, Limited Places for kayaking and rafting, please reserve early.
Ron Dahl (952) 888-4797
23-25 May
4th Annual Memorial Day Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
Apostle Islands, paddling camping or just hanging out. Membership required.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
Page 27
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
23-25 May
Trip
River Ramblers
Cloquet River, 3C White Water
Hank Wells (651) 638-1913
27-May
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
30-May
Trip
River Ramblers
Upper Minnehaha Creek, 2C-2K
Paul Streeter (651) 765-2546
30-31 May
Class
Rapids Riders
Canoe-U Graduation Weekend
www.rapidsriders.org
3-June
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
4-June
Board Meeting
Inland Sea Kayakers
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, REI Bloomington Community Room. All Club memebrs welcome!
www.inlandseakayakers. org
6-June
Trip
River Ramblers
Zumbro River, 1C-1K
Kevin Hannon (612) 824-2241
6-June
Recreational Water Release
Wausau Kayak/ Canoe Corp.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wausau Recreational Whitewater Release, $10 for ACA members.
Julie Walraven, 715-574-5263, wkcc@dwave.netwww. wausauwhitewater.org
7-June
Race
Darlington Canoe Fest, racing and recreational classes, Pecatonica River.
Bill North (608) 776-4788 (evenings) wmnorth@mhtc.net
10-June
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
12-June
Trip
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
5:30 PM Watonwan River, easy float.
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
12-14 June
Trip
SKOAC
Oak Island Trip
Courtney@skoac.org
13-June
Trip
River Ramblers
Crow Wing River, 1C-1K
Tom Mings (651) 460-4096
13-June
Recreational Water Release
Wausau Kayak/ Canoe Corp.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wausau Recreational Whitewater Release, $10 for ACA members.
Julie Walraven, 715-574-5263, wkcc@dwave.netwww. wausauwhitewater.org
13-14 June
Race
Wisconsin Canoe Racing Association
Callie Rohr 5th Memorial Canoe Race, 2-day benefit for American Brain Tumor Association. Conover, WI
http://www.rwtcanoe.com/ Maria Rohr, rwtcanoe@nnex.net, (715) 547-3639
Page 28
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
13-14 June
ACA Intro To Kayaking
Inland Sea Kayakers
A two-day introduction course to coastal kayaking. $50/$65 for members/nonmembers. Shady Oak Lake, Hopkins, MN.
Peter Kuhn, www.inlandseakayakers. org
14-June
Madison Paddle Fest
Wilderness Inquiry
Free canoe & kayak tryouts, instruction & information about outdoor activities. Wingra Park, Madison, WI
www.wildernessinquiry.org
17-June
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
18-21 June
Inland Sea Kayak Symposium
Inland Sea Society
Symposium on sea kayaking., Keynote Speaker: Nigel Dennis. Washburn, WI.
www.inlandsea.org
19-June
Cruise
MCA
Full Moon Cruise Minneapolis Chain of Lakes, Lake Calhoun
Jay Hawkinson, 651-206-3939, jhawkin@pressenter.com
19-21 June
Festival
North House Folk School
Wooden Boat Show & Festival, speakers, demos, workshops, displays. Grand Marias, MN
www.northhousefolkschool.com
20-June
Race
Wisconsin Canoe Racing Association
Surfski Race Around Washington Island, A new race. Washington Island, WI
www.wicanoeracing.com
20-21 June
Trip
River Ramblers
Upper St. Croix River, 1C-1K
Joe Reischel (651) 702-1136
24-June
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
27-June
Trip
River Ramblers
Kinnickinnic River, 1C-1K
Hank Wells (651) 638-1913
27-28 June
Race
Wisconsin Canoe Racing Association
Peshtigo River Canoe Race, C1 races and C2 Pro races. Peshtigo, WI.
www.wicanoeracing.com
28-June
Race
Friends of Brice Prairie
Brice Prairie Canoe & Kayak Race, Black River & Lake Onalaska
Sue Schultz, (608) 781-1662, www.briceprairiecanoerace.org
1-July
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
2-July
Board Meeting
Inland Sea Kayakers
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, REI Bloomington Community Room. All Club memebrs welcome!
www.inlandseakayakers. org
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
Page 29
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
2-5 July
Trip
Inland Sea Kayakers
Inner Islands on Lake Superior
Michael, lightwhite@ earthlink.net
4-July
Trip
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
12:00 Noon, Blue Earth Gorge, moderate rapids.
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
4-5 July
Trip
River Ramblers
Root River, 1C-1K
Vicki Champeau (651) 351-1324
11-12 July
Race
Wisconsin Canoe Racing Association
The Big Five Challenge, 3 downriver races that all end Muscoda, WI. This year there will be C1 & K1 races.
www.wicanoeracing.com
5-July
Deadline
Minnesota Paddler
Article Submission and Advertisement Deadline for Aug/Sept Minnesota Paddler and Trading Post.
MCAeditor@canoe-kayak. org
8-July
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers-
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
11-July
Trip
River Ramblers
Middle St. Croix River, 2C-1K
Mary Hoffman (612) 327-2311
11-12 July
Dragon Festival
American Dragon Boat Assoc.
Chinese Dragon Boat Festival, Food, art, culture, with dragon boat races. Lake Phalen, St. Paul
www.dragonfestival.org mail@dragonfestival.org
11-12 July
Trip
River Ramblers
Brule River, 4C-1K, White Water (Kayak only, please reserve early)
Ron Dahl (952) 888-4797
12-July
Recreational Water Release
Wausau Kayak/ Canoe Corp.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wausau Recreational Whitewater Release, $10 for ACA members.
Julie Walraven, 715-574-5263, wkcc@dwave.netwww. wausauwhitewater.org
12-July
Race
Wisconsin Canoe Racing Association
Muscoda - Wisconsin River Race, new C1 race for 2009. Spring Green, WI.
www.wicanoeracing.com
15-July
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
18-July
Race
Wisconsin Sports Developement Corp.
Paddle and Portage, Large variety of paddlers and classes. Madison, WI.
www.paddleandportage. org, 608-226-4780
18-19 July
Trip
River Ramblers
Lower Namekagon River, 1C-1K
Joe Reischel (651) 702-1136
22-July
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
Page 30
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
24-27 July
Festival
North House Folk School
North Shore Dragon Boat Festival, races and festival. Grand Marais, MN
www.northshoredragonboat.com, info@northshoredragonboat.com
25-July
Trip
River Ramblers
Lower Cannon River, 1C-1K
Mark Deboer (952) 926-4675
25-26 July
Mississippi River Challenge
Friends of the Missisippi River
Two paddling event promoting a cleaner, healthier river.
www.mississippiriver challenge.org 651-222-2193
26-July
Recreational Water Release
Wausau Kayak/ Canoe Corp.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wausau Recreational Whitewater Release, $10 for ACA members.
Julie Walraven, 715-574-5263, wkcc@dwave.netwww. wausauwhitewater.org
29-July
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
1-Aug
Trip
River Ramblers
Red Cedar River, 1C-1K
Hank Wells (651) 638-1913
2-Aug
Race
Rock River Regatta
Race the Rock, Variety of classese. Mayville, WI.
www.racetherock.com/
5-Aug
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
6-Aug
Board Meeting
Inland Sea Kayakers
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, REI Bloomington Community Room. All Club memebrs welcome!
www.inlandseakayakers. org
7-Aug
Trip
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
6:00 PM, Full moon evening Dean Peterson: (507-345trip on the Minnesota River. 8701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
8&9 August
Recreational Water Release
Wausau Kayak/ Canoe Corp.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wausau Recreational Whitewater Release, $10 for ACA members.
Julie Walraven, 715-574-5263, wkcc@dwave.netwww. wausauwhitewater.org
8-9 Aug
Trip
River Ramblers
Upper Chippewa River, 1C-1K
September Steinolfson (952) 934-7278
12-Aug
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
15-16 August
Trip
River Ramblers
Upper Namekagon River, 1C-1K
Joe Reischel (651) 702-1136
19-Aug
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
22-Aug
Trip
River Ramblers
Lower Chippewa River, 1C-1K
Tom Mings (651) 460-4096
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
Page 31
Date
Type
Sponsor
Description
For More Information
26-Aug
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
28-Aug
Trip
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
12:00 Noon Eagle Lake, easy paddle on an undeveloped lake.
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
2-Sept
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
3-Sept
Board Meeting
Inland Sea Kayakers
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM, REI Bloomington Community Room. All Club memebrs welcome!
www.inlandseakayakers. org
5-Sept
Trip
River Ramblers
Upper Cannon River, 1C-1K
Ron Dahl (952) 888-4797
5-Sept
Deadline
Minnesota Paddler
Article Submission and Advertisement Deadline for Aug/Sept Minnesota Paddler and Trading Post.
MCAeditor@canoe-kayak. org
5&6 Sept
Recreational Water Release
Wausau Kayak/ Canoe Corp.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wausau Recreational Whitewater Release, $10 for ACA members.
Julie Walraven, 715-574-5263, wkcc@dwave.netwww. wausauwhitewater.org
9-Sept
Wednesday Night Rendezvous
Inland Sea Kayakers
6:30 PM Lake Calhoun, Thomas Beach, paddle, play, work on new skills. Non-members welcome.
www.inlandseakayakers. org
11-13 Sept
South Dakota River Challenge
South Dakota Canoe Association
Race from Bob’s Resort (North of Hwy 212) to Lake Oahe west of the Dam, 80 miles.
http://sdcka.blogspot.com, Jarett Bies, jbies0341@hotmail.com Steven Dahlmeier
12-Sept
Trip
River Ramblers
Minnesota River, 1C-1K
Mark Deboer, (952) 926-4675
19-Sept
Trip
River Ramblers
Zumbro River, 2C-1K
Mary Hoffman (612) 327-2311
19 & 20 Sept
Recreational Water Release
Wausau Kayak/ Canoe Corp.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Wausau Recreational Whitewater Release, $10 for ACA members.
Julie Walraven, 715-574-5263, wkcc@dwave.netwww. wausauwhitewater.org
21-Sept
Trip
SKOAC
Oak to Stockton Paddle Adventure, Apostle Island National Lake Shore.
Courtney, cmccalle@ earthlink.net
25-27 Sept
Trip
River Ramblers
Kickapoo River, 2C-2K
Harlan Nickerson (763) 535-1373
26-Sept
Trip
Mankato Paddling & Outing Club
12:00 Noon Color Cruise on the Minnesota River.
Dean Peterson: (507-3458701) or Peggy Kreber: peggyk@hickorytech.net
Page 32
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
M innesota Cano e Asso ciation , Inc. www.c ano e-k ayak.org
Membership Application Name Address City
State/Zip
Phone
Year of birth
E-mail ® I would like to receive the newsletter via E-mail. MCA Membership ® 1 Year MCA Membership $22 ® 2 Year MCA Membership $42 ® 3 Year MCA Membership $60 ® 1 Year MCA Supportive Member $50
The MCA membership roster may be shared with MCA chapters and affiliate clubs. The MCA does not distribute or sell member names to any other organizations. The MCA and its chapter affiliates periodically call or e-mail members regarding club events. Check here to opt out: ® E-mail ® Phone
Number of house hold members at this address: Please mail your application to: Minnesota Canoe Association, Inc. P.O. Box 13567 Dinkytown Station Minneapolis, MN 55414-5567 Checks (US funds) Payable To: Minnesota Canoe Association, Inc.
The MCA is an all volunteer organization. Please tell us about activities and volunteer opportunities that interest you.
MCA chapters and affiliate clubs offer countless opportunities for paddle-sport recreation. I’m also a member of:
® Administrative Support / Serve on the MCA Board ® Staff / Organize MCA Exhibit for Public Events / Symposia ® Conservation and River Clean-ups ® BWCAW Trail Clearing Trips ® Boat Building ® Day Trips / Cruising ® Marathon Canoe Racing ® Sea Kayaking ® Whitewater Paddling ® Wilderness Tripping ® Teaching Paddling Technique / Safety & Education ® Photograph / Videotape MCA Activities ® Write Articles or Trip Reports for the Minnesota Paddler ® Other
® Inland Sea Kayakers (ISK) ® Mankato Paddling & Outings Club ® Rivers Council of Minnesota ® Rapids Riders ® River Ramblers ® South Dakota Canoe Association ® Superior Kayak & Outdoor Adventure Club (SKOAC) ® Mississippi Whitewater Park ® Women’s Affiliate ® American Whitewater Affiliation ® United States Canoe Association ® American Canoe Association ® Headwaters Canoe Club
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
Page 33
Minnesota Canoe Association P.O. Box 13567 • Dinkytown Station • Minneapolis, MN 55414 www.canoe-kayak.org • mca@canoe-kayak.org
MCA Mission Statement The MCA serves paddlers in the upper Midwest by promoting safe, enjoyable, and quality paddling opportunities on our region's waterways.
The MCA is an affiliate club of the American Canoe Association and the United States Canoe Association and member of the American Whitewater Affiliation
2009 Board of Directors President Tom Mings 651/460-4096 MCApres@canoe-kayak.org
Conservation Director Mel Baughman 651/645-9409 MCAcon@canoe-kayak.org
Vice President Jay Hawkinson 715/426-1736 MCAvpres@canoe-kayak.org
Cruising Director Open
Secretary Lloyd Brandon 507-434-2956 MCAsec@canoe-kayak.org Treasurer Andy Bergstrom 612/928-7904 MCAtreas@canoe-kayak.org Building Director Don Ternes 651/779-7363 MCAbuilding@canoe-kayak.org
Public Relations Director Open Publications Director Open Volunteer Director Open
Education & Safety David Shanteau 651/433-2157 MCAedu@canoe-kayak.org
Director through ‘09 Kenn Ketter MCA09D@canoe-kayak.org
Membership Director Gary Hennes 763/537-2945 x203 MCAmemb@canoe-kayak.org
Director through ‘10 Karl Wilson 651/489-8271 MCA10D@canoe-kayak.org
Racing Director Carl Shaffer 763/525-9399 MCAracing@canoe-kayak.org
Director through ‘11 Joe Conrad 715/425-2818 MCA11D@canoe-kayak.org
MCA Chapter/Affiliate Reps
Link to many of these organizations through our web site www.canoe-kayak.org
Inland Sea Kayakers (ISK)
River Ramblers
South Dakota Canoe Assoc
Jeff Forseth isk@canoe-kayak.org
Mary Hoffman 612/327-2311 www.river-ramblers.org
Dave Greenlee 605/594-6287 sdca@canoe-kayak.org
Minnesota Rivers
Superior Kayak and Outdoor Adventure Club (SKOAC)
Mankato Paddling & Outings Club Peggy Kreber 507/931-6419 mankato@canoe-kayak.org
Bruce Johnson 320/259-6800 brucej@minnesotawaters.org
Headwaters Canoe Club
Rapids Riders
Fannie Tjader 218/4445477
Page 34
Jerome Rausch (612) 925-1710 information@skoac.org
Whitewater Park
Chad Kehn 612/940-0420 chadkehn@gmail.com
Bill Tilton 651/224-7687 whitewaterpark@canoe-kayak.org
April-May 2009 • Minnesota Paddler
Trading Post Free classified ads for MCA members.
For Sale For Sale: Thule roof rack with locks and key (50” bar), $95. Ski rack for 4 to 5 pairs with locks and key, $90. Fit kit for Chev Lumina and many others, $35. All in excellent condition; selling only because won’t fit new vehicle. Call Don @ 651-483-3868 or email dtn@spacestar.net.
For Sale: BELL, MERLIN II, 15 1/2 ft. solo canoe. Lightly used. Kevlar, wood trim. Owners manual included. Reason for selling: I need a tandem. Price: $2,000. Call 651-777-1224 and leave message for Art with best time to call you back. All calls will be answered.
Wanted: Used Flashfire canoe. Contact Robyn or Doug at drkeyport@centurytel.net or 715-262-4340. Trading Post ads are for boats, camping equipment, and related gear. No ads will be considered for real estate, cars, auto parts, etc. Ads run for 2 issues unless the editor is notified otherwise. Special ads for cabins, special events, etc., can be purchased for $3.75 per line. Email or mail your ads; no telephone ads will be accepted. To place ads send copy information to the Trading Post editor. Contact information and deadlines are listed on the inside front cover of this issue.
MCA Discount Vendors
The following vendors give a 5% discount off the regular retail price of certain building materials: Northwest Canoe Co. 308 Prince Street St. Paul, MN 55101 651-229-0192 www.northwestcanoe.com
Kickapoo Canoe & Kayak N3257 State Road 71 Elroy, WI 53929 608-462-5065 boatmail211@hotmail.com
Bemidji Woolen Mills 301 Irvine Avenue NW Bemidji, MN 56601 888-751-5166 www.bemidjiwoolenmills.com
Vacation Sports 4461 Lake Avenue White Bear, MN 55110 651-653-7401 www.vacationsports.com
Index to Advertisers Boundary Waters Journal
• 12
Canoe Frontier Expeditions Canoeing.com
•3
Cooke Custom Sewing
• 25
Ketter Canoeing
North Bay Canoe MW Territory 205 7TH Street Bemidji, MN 56601 218-444-7777 www.paulbunyan.net/users/ nbcanoe Cambridge Custom Boatworks 763-286-8973
• 19
Midwest Mountaineering Wolf River Guides
• 10
• 16
•6
http://www.canoe-kayak.org
Page 35
Minnesota Canoe Association, Inc. P.O. Box 13567 Dinkytown Station Minneapolis, MN 55414 www.canoe-kayak.org
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Minneapolis, MN Permit #2539