Thursday, May 08, 2008
California American River Whitewater Trips
California's whitewater rafting season has begun. The Sacramento Bee in Northern California recently partnered with the well-known whitewater rafting company, W.E.T. River Trips in a historical event on the three forks of the American River. They called it the Rafting Triple Crown or Rapid Fire.
Rare is the day when all three whitewater sections of the American River are runnable. Due to spring runoff and dam schedules, North Fork American, South Fork American and Middle Fork American are rarely flowing at the same time. This past week, The Sacramento Bee, Good Blood Productions and W.E.T. River Trips accomplished a record setting time on running all three whitewater sections in less than 12 hours in one day.
Ryan MacPherson, who works for W.E.T. River Trips as a safety kayaker on the class 4+ North Fork American owns his own video production company, Good Blood Productions. Ryan recently finished working with the documentary, "The Deadliest Catch" on the Discovery Channel. W.E.T. River Trips has given Sacbee.com permission to post the video for their readers.
Congratulations to this California rafting company and the great publicity for all the whitewater companies in the west.
Rare is the day when all three whitewater sections of the American River are runnable. Due to spring runoff and dam schedules, North Fork American, South Fork American and Middle Fork American are rarely flowing at the same time. This past week, The Sacramento Bee, Good Blood Productions and W.E.T. River Trips accomplished a record setting time on running all three whitewater sections in less than 12 hours in one day.
Ryan MacPherson, who works for W.E.T. River Trips as a safety kayaker on the class 4+ North Fork American owns his own video production company, Good Blood Productions. Ryan recently finished working with the documentary, "The Deadliest Catch" on the Discovery Channel. W.E.T. River Trips has given Sacbee.com permission to post the video for their readers.
Congratulations to this California rafting company and the great publicity for all the whitewater companies in the west.
Labels: american river, california, flows, north fork, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, wet river trips, white water
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Rafting News from Second Life - USA
Whitewater and paddling in the USA is pleased to announce world wide partnerships with the rafting and extreme sports networks. W.E.T. River Trips is the first rafting, whitewater or paddling entity in Second Life. Over one year in development, W.E.T. River Trips is networking in the virtual world with giants in the extreme sports industry such as the Costa Rica sims, the Weather Channel's surfing sims, SL Triathelon, Base Jumpers, Diving and Second Life script and terrain developers.
Builder, Tu Dae - Wizard Water & Rock Video
Throughout the virtual world, W.E.T. River Trips has encouraged other sim owners to create rivers, streams, whitewater, waterfalls and other water elements in Second Life.
Recently, the Dutch have announced the creation of a new sim soley based on paddling sports. The marketing relationships with the Dutch were developed in-world through electronic music and owners of other sims.
W.E.T. River Trips is now a concierge level landowner in Second Life. Their female avatar is represented by their domain name RAFTWET. The avatar is a single, business woman created to network with other sim owners and businesses. She has created three major groups for avatars including a builders's group for land development and the paddling sports of rafting and whitewater.
"Our focus is to network and educate. The more the public knows about rivers, the more protection a river will have from the encroachment of civilization and pollution. Countries such as Costa Rica, Mexico, Brasil, Australia, Germany, Turkey, Korea, Japan are already here marketing their outdoor tourism programs. We were concerned that the USA had not discovered this marketing opportunity. We came here to make sure that the USA was well-represented for outdoor tourism and whitewater rafting. And now... we are network partners with the world," exclaims RAFTWET Jewell, the company avatar in Second Life.
As the rafting company celebrates their first year in Second Life, they have taken on a philosophy of sharing and educating the world-wide public to the whitewater rafting and extreme sports networks. "If you build it, they will come" is the mantra of the virtual world builders, and W.E.T. River Trips has taken this to another level in marketing whitewater paddling sports.
Builder, Tu Dae - Wizard Water & Rock Video
Throughout the virtual world, W.E.T. River Trips has encouraged other sim owners to create rivers, streams, whitewater, waterfalls and other water elements in Second Life.
Recently, the Dutch have announced the creation of a new sim soley based on paddling sports. The marketing relationships with the Dutch were developed in-world through electronic music and owners of other sims.
W.E.T. River Trips is now a concierge level landowner in Second Life. Their female avatar is represented by their domain name RAFTWET. The avatar is a single, business woman created to network with other sim owners and businesses. She has created three major groups for avatars including a builders's group for land development and the paddling sports of rafting and whitewater.
"Our focus is to network and educate. The more the public knows about rivers, the more protection a river will have from the encroachment of civilization and pollution. Countries such as Costa Rica, Mexico, Brasil, Australia, Germany, Turkey, Korea, Japan are already here marketing their outdoor tourism programs. We were concerned that the USA had not discovered this marketing opportunity. We came here to make sure that the USA was well-represented for outdoor tourism and whitewater rafting. And now... we are network partners with the world," exclaims RAFTWET Jewell, the company avatar in Second Life.
As the rafting company celebrates their first year in Second Life, they have taken on a philosophy of sharing and educating the world-wide public to the whitewater rafting and extreme sports networks. "If you build it, they will come" is the mantra of the virtual world builders, and W.E.T. River Trips has taken this to another level in marketing whitewater paddling sports.
Labels: american river, california, conservation, environment, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, second life, surfing, trips, wet river trips, white water
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Siang River, India
India's love of rivers was highlighted recently on a "trip of a lifetime" to the remote Siang River. Shauna Rempel from the Toronto Star writes a great article about North American men and women who did an inaugural expedition of River India.
Her blow by blow article captures the heart of river rafting on this expedition-style adventure sport. The Siang River is known as Tsnag-Po in Tibet and flows into the Lohit and the Dibang in Assam to form the Brahmaputra (Son of Brahma in Sanskrit) River.
Scott Lindgren led a group of kayakers back in 2002 on an exploratory trip there. Only 10 documented whitewater trips have been known. This trip is the definition of wilderness whitewater paddling.
River India was started by Roland Stevenson who focuses on this type of rafting. He comments, "You could go to Rishikesh and do a trip like that. (50 tour operators with bus trips for rafting) But I didn't start River India to offer that kind of experience." A son of a diplomat with a PhD in physics and 10+ years of paddling experience, Stevenson adds, "I'm offering trips of a lifetime."
Thank you to the The Toronto Star and Shauna Rempel
Labels: american river, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, wet river trips, white water
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Silver Creek - California
Visit the AmericanWhitewater.org water steward organization for river rafting acess for the public. Many runs have been opened by this politically active organization. Most recent was the Silver Creek run on the South Fork American river. Only 10 elusive days were available to run this small section of the main south fork in the last 2 years.
Kayakers, paddlers and media swarmed onto the river at the last days of October 2007. Reviews, kudos and accolades were given on this most precious whitewater resource. Contact AmericanWhitewater.org for more information on how you can influence the water managers of this run to allow for more water releases on scheduled dates.
For more information on California whitewater rafting, please visit the C-W-R.com website.
Kayakers, paddlers and media swarmed onto the river at the last days of October 2007. Reviews, kudos and accolades were given on this most precious whitewater resource. Contact AmericanWhitewater.org for more information on how you can influence the water managers of this run to allow for more water releases on scheduled dates.
For more information on California whitewater rafting, please visit the C-W-R.com website.
Labels: american river, california, conservation, environment, flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, wet river trips, white water
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
William Nealy - Whitewater Cartoonist
The whitewater industry lost a giant in the world of cartooning, writing and art when they lost William Nealy. His artwork today is still being enjoyed not only by whitewater paddlers but by the general public at large. Much of his artwork has never been seen before or published. The Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) has made an agreeement with Mr. Nealy's estate, and the NOC will be housing his unseen works and rotating them for view on a regular basis at the Paddler's Club.
William Nealy's artwork was the quintenssential interpretation of whitewater paddling. His drawings will be enjoyed now even more now that it has it's own place in the most appropriate setting. A grand opening is set for August 31, 2007 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm and will benefit the American Whitewater non-profit organization.
William Nealy's artwork was the quintenssential interpretation of whitewater paddling. His drawings will be enjoyed now even more now that it has it's own place in the most appropriate setting. A grand opening is set for August 31, 2007 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm and will benefit the American Whitewater non-profit organization.
Labels: outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Rafting Forum
Topix is a news service specializing in feeds from every blog, news source registered in the universe. The rafting news portion has a forum where rafters, paddlers and kayakers can vent or comment on their news' items. Each teaser has a recap on the feed with a direct link to the publisher or media source. Though all encompassing, many of the items are sensational or promotional releases.
W.E.T. River Trips' Rafting News will focus on news that promotes the rafting whitewater industry and other paddling and surfing news. PR pieces will not be given the same role here as a real news item. We will leave it to Topix to gather it all as one source. Check it out and make your comments count.
W.E.T. River Trips' Rafting News will focus on news that promotes the rafting whitewater industry and other paddling and surfing news. PR pieces will not be given the same role here as a real news item. We will leave it to Topix to gather it all as one source. Check it out and make your comments count.
Labels: outdoors, rafting, recreation, rivers, surfing, wet river trips, white water
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Lim River - Montenegro
28 rafts competed in a recent competition on the Lim River in Montenegro. A six-man team from Bulgaria secured a silver and bronze medal in 3 categories: slalom two manshes, sprint with eliminations and 5 km drops. This was an impressive showing for this team as it was only the 2nd time that they participated in this competition.
The biggest competition came from the Serbs, Crotians and Slovakians. Those more seasoned teams placed first and second in the rankings. Next step comes the preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games in Peking, China.
Thanks to Blaga Bangieva for this informative post!
The biggest competition came from the Serbs, Crotians and Slovakians. Those more seasoned teams placed first and second in the rankings. Next step comes the preparation for the upcoming Olympic Games in Peking, China.
Thanks to Blaga Bangieva for this informative post!
Labels: outdoors, paddling, rafting, rivers, white water
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Gauley - West Virginia
The state's Division of Natural Resources Whitewater Commission has been asked by the West Virginia Professional River Outfitters to levy a mandatory 35-cent fee for each rafter that floats through 4 sections of the Gauley River.
This fee would help the WVPRO in stocking trout for the river. Since 1990, the association has taken it upon themselves to stock the river with trout using the association's membership fees. This has helped extend the recreational opportunities for the public and the resource.
Each licensed rafting company will collect the monies as a mandatory use fee and submit those funds as part of a monthly report of use. This same concept is used in California on the American River's whitewater sections of the South Fork and Middle Fork of the American.
The Gauley and other rivers already have a use-fee levied for rafting, but this fee covers the agencies that fund studies for economic impacts and developing tourism, carrying capacities, safety issues and overseeing the quality of the rafting trip itself.
The new fees will be earmarked solely for the stocking of trout. This program will help to create a economic base for fishing and extending the Gauley's recreational resources.
Thanks to the Daily Mail for this item.
This fee would help the WVPRO in stocking trout for the river. Since 1990, the association has taken it upon themselves to stock the river with trout using the association's membership fees. This has helped extend the recreational opportunities for the public and the resource.
Each licensed rafting company will collect the monies as a mandatory use fee and submit those funds as part of a monthly report of use. This same concept is used in California on the American River's whitewater sections of the South Fork and Middle Fork of the American.
The Gauley and other rivers already have a use-fee levied for rafting, but this fee covers the agencies that fund studies for economic impacts and developing tourism, carrying capacities, safety issues and overseeing the quality of the rafting trip itself.
The new fees will be earmarked solely for the stocking of trout. This program will help to create a economic base for fishing and extending the Gauley's recreational resources.
Thanks to the Daily Mail for this item.
Labels: american river, california, environment, flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
4th of July - USA
The Fourth of July is here with hot weather, hot dogs and red, white & blue confetti. The real beginning of summer. Throughout the country many people will jump aboard a raft and float down a river. Some will venture out on their own, floating in plastic rafts or inner tubes. While other paddlers hire professional whitewater outfitters to paddle down advanced river runs near their communities.
Whatever river you are paddling today on this 4th, Rafting News asks everyone to have a proper lifejacket on at all times. Many locales have community programs for families where you can rent lifejackets for all members in your group. Drinking is fine when you get back home to the barbecue, but don't do it on the river. And a word about trash. Pick it up and throw it away into a trash receptacle. Keep the rivers as clean as the day they were formed. Come home tonight safe and sound to your friends and family and keep this July 4th as a cherished memory.
Whatever river you are paddling today on this 4th, Rafting News asks everyone to have a proper lifejacket on at all times. Many locales have community programs for families where you can rent lifejackets for all members in your group. Drinking is fine when you get back home to the barbecue, but don't do it on the river. And a word about trash. Pick it up and throw it away into a trash receptacle. Keep the rivers as clean as the day they were formed. Come home tonight safe and sound to your friends and family and keep this July 4th as a cherished memory.
Labels: american river, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Monday, June 25, 2007
Faux River - Maryland
It was inevitable... there are man-made surf waves at theme parks and climbing walls in almost every city. There are man-made kayak surf holes on rivers that run through urban centers. There are whitewater rafting parks, man-made and human designed in many, many locations throughout the world. So it was inevitable that the first man-made river now cascades down from a mountain in Garrett County, Maryland. Marsh Mountain hosts the Adventure Sports Center International with a 1,700-foot whitewater river.
For $50 per person, they plan to take as many people on this faux-whitewater river as an introduction to the sport. From Class I to Class IV, a new paddler will be able to experience what the rest of us have been experiencing all along, except this is a controlled environment with no surprises.
Experienced, professional guides still lead the charge as they help the novices learn whitewater paddling techniques. This new venture will only help to bring new rafters and paddlers to the sport of whitewater river rafting on real rivers!
Thanks to Washington Post for the news announcement!
For $50 per person, they plan to take as many people on this faux-whitewater river as an introduction to the sport. From Class I to Class IV, a new paddler will be able to experience what the rest of us have been experiencing all along, except this is a controlled environment with no surprises.
Experienced, professional guides still lead the charge as they help the novices learn whitewater paddling techniques. This new venture will only help to bring new rafters and paddlers to the sport of whitewater river rafting on real rivers!
Thanks to Washington Post for the news announcement!
Labels: flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
AB 951 - American River, California
The California legislator's have finally addressed the deviant behavior on the urban lower American River in Sacramento. Assemblyman Dave Jones, a Democrat representing Sacramento wrote the AB 951 after many of his constituents had raised questions about the alcohol-inspired riots from past holiday weekends on that river.
The county placed a ban on alcohol, but found that they could not regulate the actual behavior in the rafts. The local jurisdiction pleaded with the assembly to find a way to regulate drinking on the river. The cost to the county has been noted as increased sheriff patrols on the river have tried to prevent near riots during the Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends. And then after the trip, the rowdy paddlers get in their cars and drive drunk putting the entire community at-risk. All these holiday weekends attract participants who have traveled sometimes from out-of-state to join the revelry on the do-it-yourself float stretch of the class II Lower American River.
What used to be a fun-filled weekend for families has turned into classic film grist for a "Girl's Gone Wild" episode. This is the urban jewel of Sacramento's waterways. The Lower American has been an artist's river as many well-known painters have featured river scenes in their artworks. It has been a local shame that the river has lost it's soul to a bunch of rowdy testosterone-laden young hooligans ready to drink and fight their way towards manhood.
The Sacramento community welcomes Congressman Dave Jones bill. Now let's hope the Govenor's listening to those who want to enjoy a day on the river without wading through beer bottles, trash, boom boxes and flying fists on what used to be a family rafting trip.
The county placed a ban on alcohol, but found that they could not regulate the actual behavior in the rafts. The local jurisdiction pleaded with the assembly to find a way to regulate drinking on the river. The cost to the county has been noted as increased sheriff patrols on the river have tried to prevent near riots during the Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends. And then after the trip, the rowdy paddlers get in their cars and drive drunk putting the entire community at-risk. All these holiday weekends attract participants who have traveled sometimes from out-of-state to join the revelry on the do-it-yourself float stretch of the class II Lower American River.
What used to be a fun-filled weekend for families has turned into classic film grist for a "Girl's Gone Wild" episode. This is the urban jewel of Sacramento's waterways. The Lower American has been an artist's river as many well-known painters have featured river scenes in their artworks. It has been a local shame that the river has lost it's soul to a bunch of rowdy testosterone-laden young hooligans ready to drink and fight their way towards manhood.
The Sacramento community welcomes Congressman Dave Jones bill. Now let's hope the Govenor's listening to those who want to enjoy a day on the river without wading through beer bottles, trash, boom boxes and flying fists on what used to be a family rafting trip.
Labels: american river, california, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Tuolumne River - California
Well-known river, the Tuolumne, lies just outside of the Yosemite area in California. A popular rafting destination for many northern Californian paddlers, the river has been on several lists of top ten whitewater rafting rivers in the west.
After two years of extreme high water, the Tuolumne will have great regulated flows though out the 2007 rafting season. Outfitters on the main section of the Tuolumne and the famous Class V section called the Cherry Creek run, should have a near normal season due to dam controlled water releases.
The Cherry Creek run is one of the most difficult Class V rafting trips, and original whitewater pioneer, Marty McDonnell's Sierra Mac River Trips was the first outfitter to offer commercial rafting on this stretch of river back in 1972. "I have a passion for that stretch of river," said Marty McDonnell, "It requires a team of guides who really know the river and we have a group of about six who work together here all summer whose main focus is the Tuolumne. Folks who want to do the river know we do about 90 percent of the trips, and they trust us."
The Tuolumne River was designated to the Wild and Scenic Rivers System on September 28, 1984. The O'Shaugnessy Dam in the Hetch Hetchy Valley of Yosemite National Park controls the water releases for the main Tuolumne river.
Thanks to Union Democrat for the quotes!
After two years of extreme high water, the Tuolumne will have great regulated flows though out the 2007 rafting season. Outfitters on the main section of the Tuolumne and the famous Class V section called the Cherry Creek run, should have a near normal season due to dam controlled water releases.
The Cherry Creek run is one of the most difficult Class V rafting trips, and original whitewater pioneer, Marty McDonnell's Sierra Mac River Trips was the first outfitter to offer commercial rafting on this stretch of river back in 1972. "I have a passion for that stretch of river," said Marty McDonnell, "It requires a team of guides who really know the river and we have a group of about six who work together here all summer whose main focus is the Tuolumne. Folks who want to do the river know we do about 90 percent of the trips, and they trust us."
The Tuolumne River was designated to the Wild and Scenic Rivers System on September 28, 1984. The O'Shaugnessy Dam in the Hetch Hetchy Valley of Yosemite National Park controls the water releases for the main Tuolumne river.
Thanks to Union Democrat for the quotes!
Labels: california, flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Thursday, June 07, 2007
RiverLink - French Broad River
Non-profit RiverLink is the organization helping the French Broad River to maintain its environmental water quality and its economic viability. Founded in 1987, they have helped to increase conservation and public awareness of the river by developing access and recreation. RiverLink was also vital to the economic revitilization of Aheville's riverfront district.
On June 14th, RiverLink hosts the Asheville Associates at Windows at the Park. A festival of music, food, beer and wine tasting, and rafting will raise monies that go directly to RiverLink. Huck Finn Rafting and Southern Waterways will provide the rafting trips throughout the day.
Thanks to the Citizens-Time from Asheville for this news item!
On June 14th, RiverLink hosts the Asheville Associates at Windows at the Park. A festival of music, food, beer and wine tasting, and rafting will raise monies that go directly to RiverLink. Huck Finn Rafting and Southern Waterways will provide the rafting trips throughout the day.
Thanks to the Citizens-Time from Asheville for this news item!
Labels: conservation, environment, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, white water
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Fly Fishing meets Whitewater
Fly fishing never seemed so exciting, as the usual tranquil sport contrasted with the wild waters of the Eagle River in Colorado. Eight finalists were met with whitewater rapids along with trout fishing in a contest held this past week during the Teva Mountain Games. Higher flows from spring melt met the competitors with exciting white water.
First prize winner, Mark Sassi of Edwards won a $1,000 prize and a new Sage fly rod for landing 5 fish in 4 hours. Cody Powell came in second with 4 fish with Jeff Wagner landing 3 fish for the third place finish. Wagner also won a $500 bonus for the largest fish caught.
Thanks to the Denver Post for this news!
First prize winner, Mark Sassi of Edwards won a $1,000 prize and a new Sage fly rod for landing 5 fish in 4 hours. Cody Powell came in second with 4 fish with Jeff Wagner landing 3 fish for the third place finish. Wagner also won a $500 bonus for the largest fish caught.
Thanks to the Denver Post for this news!
Labels: flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Friday, June 01, 2007
White Water Media Day - California
Whitewater rafting enthusiasts will appreciate the efforts from the American River community in the Lotus Coloma Valley in Northern California. Tomorrow, June 2nd is the Annual Whitewater Media Day on the South Fork of the American River. El Dorado County, California Outdoors, the American River outfitters, local businesses and the media will all be paddling on the Gorge section of this river.
The Gorge is an 11-mile stretch of Class 3 to 3+ whitewater river. The section starts in the heart of the Gold Rush town of Coloma, where John Sutter found the first gold. An historic park lies in Coloma preserving Sutter's mill right on the shores of the river. The Gorge flows through several rapids and its moniker emphasizes the steep canyon-like walls near the best class 3+ rapids of the day. The river ends in Folsom Lake, a large reservoir just above Sacramento; California's state capitol.
Each rafting company donates guides, rafts and equipment, vehicles, barbecue, and, even land in order to host this special media event. Publishers of print, television, radio and internet media send their representatives to paddle and river raft the South Fork American, the most popular river in the Western United States.
The Gorge is an 11-mile stretch of Class 3 to 3+ whitewater river. The section starts in the heart of the Gold Rush town of Coloma, where John Sutter found the first gold. An historic park lies in Coloma preserving Sutter's mill right on the shores of the river. The Gorge flows through several rapids and its moniker emphasizes the steep canyon-like walls near the best class 3+ rapids of the day. The river ends in Folsom Lake, a large reservoir just above Sacramento; California's state capitol.
Each rafting company donates guides, rafts and equipment, vehicles, barbecue, and, even land in order to host this special media event. Publishers of print, television, radio and internet media send their representatives to paddle and river raft the South Fork American, the most popular river in the Western United States.
Labels: american river, california, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Yagatta Regatta - Colorado
Whitewater Rafting is sponsoring the 5th annual Yagatta Regatta benefiting Operation Vacation, a program to help military personnel with all expense paid trips to the community. An array of events are planned starting on June 2nd.
A raft flotilla costume competition, live music, beer tasting, food vendors and children's activities round out the kayak competition this year.
For all rafters, meet at 2000 Devereux Road, by 10:30 a.m. Rafts will float from Grizzly Creek to Two Rivers Park, where festival entrance is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and younger.
Thanks to April Clark at the Post Independent for this info!
A raft flotilla costume competition, live music, beer tasting, food vendors and children's activities round out the kayak competition this year.
For all rafters, meet at 2000 Devereux Road, by 10:30 a.m. Rafts will float from Grizzly Creek to Two Rivers Park, where festival entrance is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and younger.
Thanks to April Clark at the Post Independent for this info!
Labels: outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Friday, May 25, 2007
Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day Weekend is coming tomorrow. Travelers will be out throughout the country visiting state parks, recreating outdoors and gravitating to our waterways. Due to high gas prices, many vacationers will be traveling closer to home and visiting rivers and lakes nearby. Picnicing and camping are the usual pasttimes while river rafting will augment many visitor's plans.
Rafting News suggests that all paddlers wear a lifejacket and proper gear no matter what river or lake you are floating. Watch and supervise your chldren at all times when near a body of water. Even your teens need to be supervised near any water or river.
Keep alcohol to a minimum or not at all if you are paddling or swimming. Alcohol will impair your judgement and also fool you into thinking the water isn't cold enough for hyperthermia. Use common sense when in the outdoors. Keep hydrated during hikes and rafting, especially in the warmer areas of the country. And remember that spring runoff is cold and fast and should be prepared for appropriately before attempting any rafting trip.
If you love the outdoors, then respect it. That respect will go a long way in preventing vacation time tragedies and will help you to preserve the time-honored memories of Memorial Day Weekend!
Rafting News suggests that all paddlers wear a lifejacket and proper gear no matter what river or lake you are floating. Watch and supervise your chldren at all times when near a body of water. Even your teens need to be supervised near any water or river.
Keep alcohol to a minimum or not at all if you are paddling or swimming. Alcohol will impair your judgement and also fool you into thinking the water isn't cold enough for hyperthermia. Use common sense when in the outdoors. Keep hydrated during hikes and rafting, especially in the warmer areas of the country. And remember that spring runoff is cold and fast and should be prepared for appropriately before attempting any rafting trip.
If you love the outdoors, then respect it. That respect will go a long way in preventing vacation time tragedies and will help you to preserve the time-honored memories of Memorial Day Weekend!
Labels: california, environment, flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, wet river trips, white water
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Sacramento River Whales - California
Whale sightings are an uncommon event on rivers. Two whales, a mother and her baby, were spotted swimming in the Sacramento River in California. Disorientated and possibly entangled by debris, the mother whale is swimming towards the urban center of the state capitol. Hordes of people are lining the banks of the Delta viewing the historical event. Not since the whale, Humphrey was sighted back in 1985, has the populous been so excited. Families, workers, students and scientists are all drawn to the spectacle.
On a more serious note, biologists are worried that the whales organs will be affected by the warm waters in the river. Unlike cold temperatures in the ocean environment, a whale's organs can be harmed by the warm river temperatures causing death.
Whale expert John Calambokidis from the Cascadia Research in Olympia, Washington and Joe Cordaro, a biologist from the National Marine Fisheries Service are helping to monitor the creatures. Rescuers may start distractions and annoyances in front of the whale's path to disturb the creatures in hopes of turning them back to the ocean. Alaska Whale Foundation is tracking the whales with volunteer rescuers. They have asked the NMFS for permission to help the whales.
In the meantime, traffic jams are occuring along the river roads as people are swarming to the sight. Whale sightings may be a spectacular event, but the unnatural setting is causing harm to the poor creatures of the sea.
On a more serious note, biologists are worried that the whales organs will be affected by the warm waters in the river. Unlike cold temperatures in the ocean environment, a whale's organs can be harmed by the warm river temperatures causing death.
Whale expert John Calambokidis from the Cascadia Research in Olympia, Washington and Joe Cordaro, a biologist from the National Marine Fisheries Service are helping to monitor the creatures. Rescuers may start distractions and annoyances in front of the whale's path to disturb the creatures in hopes of turning them back to the ocean. Alaska Whale Foundation is tracking the whales with volunteer rescuers. They have asked the NMFS for permission to help the whales.
In the meantime, traffic jams are occuring along the river roads as people are swarming to the sight. Whale sightings may be a spectacular event, but the unnatural setting is causing harm to the poor creatures of the sea.
Labels: california, environment, outdoors, rivers
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
American River - Coloma, California
The Lotus Coloma Valley, center of the universe for California's rafting community, will be hosting several special events throughout the 2007 season. Music, art, environmental fund raisers, American River conservancy events will highlight the year.
This charming, rural foothill community just outside of Sacramento, California's State Capitol is also home to the original gold rush. The historical Coloma State Park is preserved there along with a museum and gold panning demonstrations. The community lies on the shores of the South Fork American river, the most popular whitewater river in the western United States. For more information on recreation and paddling, visit coloma.com for an expanded read on valley events.
This charming, rural foothill community just outside of Sacramento, California's State Capitol is also home to the original gold rush. The historical Coloma State Park is preserved there along with a museum and gold panning demonstrations. The community lies on the shores of the South Fork American river, the most popular whitewater river in the western United States. For more information on recreation and paddling, visit coloma.com for an expanded read on valley events.
Labels: american river, california, conservation, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, white water
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Reno River Festival - Nevada
Reno, Nevada is hosting the 4th Annual Reno River Festival this weekend. Eric Jackson, the 2005 and 2006 men's freestyle champion and 3-time world freestyle kayak champion will be there again vying and surfing for top honors. Tanya Faux, the 2005 and 2006 women's champion from Australia will be there, too defending her crown.
Other well-known names in the kayaking world will be there to offer challenges. Stephen Wright, Bryan Kirk, Ben Guska and Mo Kelleher will challenge the men's titles as Ruth Gordon and 17-year old, Emily Jackson will compete in the women's divisions.
The festival is held in the urban center of Reno on a man-made whitewater park that draws thousands of recreational paddlers each year. This year the festival begins when the Freestyle World Championships on the Ottowa River in Canada ends. There should be record numbers of outdoor paddling enthusiasts there to witness the Reno whitewater event.
For more information, please visit Reno's Visitor's Center for accommodations and lodging.
Thanks to the Sacramento Bee for this information!
Other well-known names in the kayaking world will be there to offer challenges. Stephen Wright, Bryan Kirk, Ben Guska and Mo Kelleher will challenge the men's titles as Ruth Gordon and 17-year old, Emily Jackson will compete in the women's divisions.
The festival is held in the urban center of Reno on a man-made whitewater park that draws thousands of recreational paddlers each year. This year the festival begins when the Freestyle World Championships on the Ottowa River in Canada ends. There should be record numbers of outdoor paddling enthusiasts there to witness the Reno whitewater event.
For more information, please visit Reno's Visitor's Center for accommodations and lodging.
Thanks to the Sacramento Bee for this information!
Labels: flows, outdoors, paddling, recreation, rivers, surfing, white water
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Arakawa River - Japan
The beautiful urban Arakawa River in Japan that flows through Tokyo is seeing an increase of rafting tourism. The upper reaches of the river is dotted with rocks and trees and the outdoor paddlers even acknowledge the steam train riders as it crosses the Chichibu Railway bridge.
Gondolas carry recreation tourists over the river as river rafters enjoy the river in rafts and kayaks. As is the case everywhere, the rafters are required to wear helmets, lifejackets and use proper gear.
Thanks to Mainichi Daily News for this info from Nagatoro, Saitama, Japan
Gondolas carry recreation tourists over the river as river rafters enjoy the river in rafts and kayaks. As is the case everywhere, the rafters are required to wear helmets, lifejackets and use proper gear.
Thanks to Mainichi Daily News for this info from Nagatoro, Saitama, Japan
Labels: outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, white water
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Chattooga River - South Carolina
Miami Beach Parks and Recreation hosted the North Shore Park Teen Club on a whitewater rafting trip on the Chattooga River. The teens rafted the river in conjunction with three other excursions that included the Salvador Dali Art Museum, Disneyland and the MGM studios. Incorporating these events gave these teens an opportunity to be exposed to activities and an outdoor adventure not normally available in their lives.
More and more youth groups and recreational groups are recognizing the value in these types of environmental programs. With rafting, the teens are exposed to a program that highlights cooperation within a group. A positive influence will work to combat negative forces in a teen's life. And in this tumultuous society, a teen needs more of these activities to brighten their hopes and dreams.
Thanks to the CityDebate in Miami Beach for the info on North Shore Park Teen Club!
More and more youth groups and recreational groups are recognizing the value in these types of environmental programs. With rafting, the teens are exposed to a program that highlights cooperation within a group. A positive influence will work to combat negative forces in a teen's life. And in this tumultuous society, a teen needs more of these activities to brighten their hopes and dreams.
Thanks to the CityDebate in Miami Beach for the info on North Shore Park Teen Club!
Labels: environment, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, teens, trips, white water
Friday, April 27, 2007
Cal Salmon River Fest - California
California Salmon River hosts a River Fest from May 5 through the 7th. The Raft and Kayak competition commences on May 6th. The Cal Salmon is a Class 5 white water run that flows on a beautiful pristine river near the California/Oregon border. World class kayakers are expected to attend this party on the river.
For whitewater rafters who want to go rafting during that time, contact a Cal Salmon outfitter and reserve your river trip now. A listing of Cal Salmon rafting companies is located on the California whitewater rafting C-W-R.com website.
For more information go to Caliproduct for the announcements and times or visit their main website at http://www.caliproduct.com.
For whitewater rafters who want to go rafting during that time, contact a Cal Salmon outfitter and reserve your river trip now. A listing of Cal Salmon rafting companies is located on the California whitewater rafting C-W-R.com website.
For more information go to Caliproduct for the announcements and times or visit their main website at http://www.caliproduct.com.
Labels: california, outdoors, paddling, rafting, rivers, trips, white water
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Waller Creek - Austin, TX
Waller Creek is about to get a make-over. An urban creek that flows adjacent to Austin's convention center, is an environmental eyesore of debris and trash flowing through the downtown area. Champion of creeks and rivers, Jim Stuart, a former member of the kayaking and rafting industry, is spearheading the movement to create a whitewater paddling park. His credits include outfitting actor Ned Beatty with rafting gear for the movie "Deliverance." Stuart also helped organize the World White Water Championships in the early 80's on the Savage River in western Maryland.
City Councilwoman, Sheryl Cole, pushing for the tunnel project that would upgrade pumps to move the water in a consistent and regulated flow, has recently created the Waller Creek Citizens Advisory Committee. So far, none of the other ideas from the citizens have considered a recreational white water park (trail) for Austin, but there are many precedents to the idea as seen around the country such as Denver's Confluence Park in their lower downtown along with Truckee Whitewater Park in Reno, Nevada.
Thanks to the Austin Chronicle for this information!
City Councilwoman, Sheryl Cole, pushing for the tunnel project that would upgrade pumps to move the water in a consistent and regulated flow, has recently created the Waller Creek Citizens Advisory Committee. So far, none of the other ideas from the citizens have considered a recreational white water park (trail) for Austin, but there are many precedents to the idea as seen around the country such as Denver's Confluence Park in their lower downtown along with Truckee Whitewater Park in Reno, Nevada.
Thanks to the Austin Chronicle for this information!
Labels: environment, flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, white water
Friday, April 20, 2007
Ocoee River - Tennessee
Ocoee River, the 1996 Olympic whitewater paddle host, was compromised by a diesel fuel spill a couple of days ago. A tanker truck had an accident near white water rafting businesses close to the North Carolina and Georgia borders. Luckily, no one was injured in the accident though a measureable amount of fuel was spilled into the river.
Spokesperson, Tisha Calabrese-Benton, from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation said, "... some of the diesel fuel has gotten into the river but in a manageable amount."
The TDEC and other local environmental management agencies are attempting to clean the mess and drain the tanker from spilling more fuel into the river.
The white water rafting companies have not started their weekday recreation schedules yet and don't anticipate problems when their weekday trips start in June.
Thanks to Business Week for this information!
Spokesperson, Tisha Calabrese-Benton, from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation said, "... some of the diesel fuel has gotten into the river but in a manageable amount."
The TDEC and other local environmental management agencies are attempting to clean the mess and drain the tanker from spilling more fuel into the river.
The white water rafting companies have not started their weekday recreation schedules yet and don't anticipate problems when their weekday trips start in June.
Thanks to Business Week for this information!
Labels: conservation, environment, flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
SMUD Relicensing a Gift for Rafters
SMUD's (Sacramento Municipal Utility District) recent relicensing is proving to be a gift to whitewater rafters in California. California rafting will be available throughout the season with controlled flows coming from dam operators on the South Fork American and Middle Fork American Rivers.
The agreement is allowing SMUD to manage the water by providing runnable flows on both rivers. On the South Fork American, the operators have designated "dry" Wednesdays in the month of May and June with flows everyday. And in July and August, everyday will be available with only a "dry" Monday.
On the Middle Fork American, the water managers will provide 7-days a week of runnable flows.
Based on this year's dismal snowpack, the agreement and management of the river resource will prove to be a gift for the whitewater rafting public assuring them of boatable flows this rafting season.
The agreement is allowing SMUD to manage the water by providing runnable flows on both rivers. On the South Fork American, the operators have designated "dry" Wednesdays in the month of May and June with flows everyday. And in July and August, everyday will be available with only a "dry" Monday.
On the Middle Fork American, the water managers will provide 7-days a week of runnable flows.
Based on this year's dismal snowpack, the agreement and management of the river resource will prove to be a gift for the whitewater rafting public assuring them of boatable flows this rafting season.
Labels: american river, california, flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, wet river trips, white water
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Rafting as a Recruiting Incentive
Accounting giant, Ernst and Young has taken the next step in recruiting their young new employees for accounting careers. River rafting wasn't quite exciting enough, so the accounting firm took their recruits on a rafting adventure down the slippery snow-covered slopes of Utah this past March. 300 students from Brigham Young were wooed with the latest recruitment incentives.
Large corporate giants are developing unusual recruitment techniques to attract young guns into their businesses with wine tasting vacations, whitewater rafting trips, adventure travel, baseball games and more. As competition heats up for the best, employers are developing more creative ways to draw in new employees and keeping them.
All these programs will help to create happier and better motivated employees for their companies. And, what better way to help our whitewater rafting industry to create even more potential rafting clients for rafting companies!
Large corporate giants are developing unusual recruitment techniques to attract young guns into their businesses with wine tasting vacations, whitewater rafting trips, adventure travel, baseball games and more. As competition heats up for the best, employers are developing more creative ways to draw in new employees and keeping them.
All these programs will help to create happier and better motivated employees for their companies. And, what better way to help our whitewater rafting industry to create even more potential rafting clients for rafting companies!
Labels: outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Friday, March 30, 2007
South Fork American - California
Flows will be impacted this year due to a less than normal precipitation this past winter. Due to SMUD's generous and cooperative management of the resources at the reservoirs, agreements were reached to provide normal flows through the duration of the season from now until September. There will be some limitations and these limitations were agreed upon by various organizations in anticipation of drier years.
Flows on Mondays in July and August will be designated dry days while the flows on Wednesdays will be dry during the May and June calendar. Most California rafting outfitters discount heavily during the week so some outfitters may be impacted based on their promotions. Most will shift their incentives to avoid these dates to accommodate the public on their river trips.
The South Fork American along with the Middle Fork American may be the best rivers to raft this summer season in California. With the flow agreements, paddlers can at least count on the contracted flows on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays.
Flows on Mondays in July and August will be designated dry days while the flows on Wednesdays will be dry during the May and June calendar. Most California rafting outfitters discount heavily during the week so some outfitters may be impacted based on their promotions. Most will shift their incentives to avoid these dates to accommodate the public on their river trips.
The South Fork American along with the Middle Fork American may be the best rivers to raft this summer season in California. With the flow agreements, paddlers can at least count on the contracted flows on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Fridays.
Labels: american river, california, flows, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Colorado Rafting Trips
The US Forest Service is currently reviewing rafting operations on a proposed run on Tenmile Creek. A two-mile trip from Officers Gulch to Dillon Reservoir. Rafters are excited about offering this trip to the paddling public. The whitewater stretch needs Forest Service approval for this new section. The Forest Service has said that the run would be approved with a temporary permit that would provide limited operations.
Details are being worked out for the exact launch site and a final decision should come by May 1st. According to outfitters that operate on the Blue River trips, the whitewater section will be a fun adventure for the local community as the Lower Blue and popular Arkansas is a bit of a drive away.
US Forest Service is streamlining the permit process by proposing a 10-year permit system instead of a yearly one. This will provide time saving and cost cutting measures for the agency while still providing environmental review.
Contact Cam Meyer, the special use administrator for Dillon District at 970-262-3486.
Public comments are due by April 16, 2007
Thanks to the Summit Daily for this info post!
Details are being worked out for the exact launch site and a final decision should come by May 1st. According to outfitters that operate on the Blue River trips, the whitewater section will be a fun adventure for the local community as the Lower Blue and popular Arkansas is a bit of a drive away.
US Forest Service is streamlining the permit process by proposing a 10-year permit system instead of a yearly one. This will provide time saving and cost cutting measures for the agency while still providing environmental review.
Contact Cam Meyer, the special use administrator for Dillon District at 970-262-3486.
Public comments are due by April 16, 2007
Thanks to the Summit Daily for this info post!
Labels: environment, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips, white water
Monday, March 26, 2007
Rafting - West Virginia
West Virginia Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau, Beverly Wellman reflects on tourism dollars spent in their state. Referring to the ski slopes at Winterplace, she notes that as one recreational season ends another begins. In this case, the next outdoor season begins with rafting trips.
Tourism dollars may end when the slopes clear, but those dollars begin in other regions of the state such as whitewater rafting rivers. "Those industries draw a lot of people's attention, and even if people aren't rafters, they know that West Virginia is a nice, natural relaxing place," said Ms. Wellman.
As visitors arrive, they spend money and support local businesses and regions. Rafting season began earlier this month and the rafting outfitters are looking forward to a very strong year.
Thanks to The State Journal for this news post!
Tourism dollars may end when the slopes clear, but those dollars begin in other regions of the state such as whitewater rafting rivers. "Those industries draw a lot of people's attention, and even if people aren't rafters, they know that West Virginia is a nice, natural relaxing place," said Ms. Wellman.
As visitors arrive, they spend money and support local businesses and regions. Rafting season began earlier this month and the rafting outfitters are looking forward to a very strong year.
Thanks to The State Journal for this news post!
Labels: flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, white water
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Water Rafting Park - Seoul, Korea
A water rafting facility is being built near the Seoul World Cup Stadium in Sangam-dong, Muhwa Ilbo. City Mayor Oh Se-hoon made the announcement last week. The water rafting facility is part of the urban indoor ski resort that will take up approximately 3.3 million square meters near the football stadium. This is Korea's version of Disneyland. Completion date is set for 2010.
The park is divided into three activity sections tht include the indoor ski slope, a biking route and a performing arts center. The water rafting will be centered around the Nanji Stream that flows nearby.
Korea is currently bidding to host the 2014 Olympic Games. The IOC will be announcing their decisions this summer.
The park is divided into three activity sections tht include the indoor ski slope, a biking route and a performing arts center. The water rafting will be centered around the Nanji Stream that flows nearby.
Korea is currently bidding to host the 2014 Olympic Games. The IOC will be announcing their decisions this summer.
Labels: outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Irish International White Water Film Festival
GMIT Castlebar and Drunken Ferret Media present the 4th annual Irish International White Water Film Festival on Friday, March 23 at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar.
A 7pm reception, followed by short feature films about white water canoeing. Directors will be introducing their films. The program will educate the rest of the world on what the Irish whitewater community has to show.
Filming was shot across the globe and features incredible footage of the extreme sport. Whether you’re a white water warrior or not, prepare to be amazed.
Thanks to Mayo Advertiser for this post!
A 7pm reception, followed by short feature films about white water canoeing. Directors will be introducing their films. The program will educate the rest of the world on what the Irish whitewater community has to show.
Filming was shot across the globe and features incredible footage of the extreme sport. Whether you’re a white water warrior or not, prepare to be amazed.
Thanks to Mayo Advertiser for this post!
Labels: flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, white water
Monday, March 12, 2007
Ocoee River - Tennessee
The Ocoee River outfitters have signed an agreement with the TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) to have controlled water releases from the dams. The commercial outfitters have secured a loan to pay the TVA for the water. The loan was secured through the Southeast Tennessee Development District. Eight separate banks along with a federal grant will pay the total of $1.6 M to the federal utility. The loan will guarantee 12 years of water flows for whitewater recreation with each year having 34 days of boatable flows.
The Ocoee River was the original site for the 1996 whitewater competition for the Summer Olympics.Thanks to the Associated Press for this information.
Labels: flows, outdoors, paddling, rafting, recreation, rivers, trips
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Satluj River - India
Ehsan Ahmad, Ashiq, Dr. Habib Kanth, Wahid, Riyaz Machloo, Ali Muhammad, Sajad Gasi and Ishafaq Khan are the 2007 team mates of J&K Rafting Association for the 4th India International White Water Rafting Cup. Over 20 teams will be competing on March 10 - 17th on the Satluj River in Himachal Pradesh. The Satluj River has difficult rapids and is quite treacherous. 12 of the teams are from outside of India and the Indian Rafting Association is organizing this year's event.
Four events highlight the competition as each team will have a time trial, head-to-head parallel sprint, slalom round and down-the-hill race. The eight member team from J&K Rafting Association came in 7th place last year and expect to do even better this year. The team recently won 6th place at the national rafting championship held at Reshikesh Uttranchal.
Thanks to Greater Kashmir for this rafting news item!
Four events highlight the competition as each team will have a time trial, head-to-head parallel sprint, slalom round and down-the-hill race. The eight member team from J&K Rafting Association came in 7th place last year and expect to do even better this year. The team recently won 6th place at the national rafting championship held at Reshikesh Uttranchal.
Thanks to Greater Kashmir for this rafting news item!
Labels: outdoors, paddling, rafting, rivers, trips