California Rafting Trips
Weather Updates
California weather reports are showing signs
of a great 2008 whitewater rafting season. News from the ski resorts are reporting good snowpack and that is great news for the paddling and white water rafting industry.
Early season river trips usually occur in the northern part of the state during February, March and April. During the heat of the summer months, reservoirs release water on controlled flows. Most of those rafting trips occur in central northern California and southern California. Throughout the season and into fall, the river rafting communities are usually busy on the forks of the American River; a popular class 3 whitewater trip suited for beginners and intermediates.
For more information on California whitewater rafting, visit the industry's website C-W-R.com for an overview of rivers in California.
January 1, 2008
North Fork American River
ARC Hike
Tom Petersen is leading a hike into the North Fork American canyon
on January 5th from 9am to 2pm. This is the area that was diverted during the 70's and was recently re-routed back to the original streambed.
The hike will visit an old Native American Indian site with over 30 bed rock mortars. The seven mile hike is not recommended for beginners since the trail is long and will cover both unpaved and paved trails.
Call American River Conservancy for details and reservations: (530) 621-1224. Or email Julie at julie@arconservancy.org for more info.
November 26, 2007
American River Conservancy
Holiday Shopping Fundraiser
If you still have holiday shopping to complete
Rene at the American River Conservancy suggests a visit to The Bookery in Placerville, California this upcoming weekend, December 1st and 2nd.
Located at 326 Main Street, The Bookery will donate 10% of their sales for this weekend only to the American River Conservancy Wakamatsu/Gold Hill project.
Shop for the holidays, support ARC, and a wonderful supportive business partner.
Rene Hamlin
American River Conservancy
email: arc@arconservancy.org
voice: (530)621-1224
web: http://www.arconservancy.org
October 29, 2007
Paddling Resources
Internet Sources for Information
The internet is a wild unrestrained resource for paddling sports.
The following is a quick list of places to get real information on whitewater rafting in California and throughout the Western United States:
California Whitewater Rafting
CACreeks
RAFTinfo
The American River
All About Rivers
Do your research early and prepare for the upcoming whitewater rafting season out here in the beautiful West! Most outfitters are now preparing for their 2008 rafting seasons.
July 7, 2007
Wild and Scenic Designation
South Fork American River
the following rivers for a Wild and Scenic designation:
South Fork American River (Chili Bar to Weber Creek) - 22.2 miles
North Fork Mokelumne (Tiger Creek to Pardee Reservoir) - 20.2 miles
Upper Smoke Creek - 10.6 miles
Upper Pit River - 13 miles
Horse Creek Canyon - 2.5 miles
Lower Pit River - 3 miles
Twelvemile Creek - 2.2 miles
For whitewater paddlers, the South Fork American is the most popular river in the Western United States. Close to major population centers, the South Fork hosts approximately 200 to 300,000 people a year on its user-friendly rapids. The whitewater trips are most popular during the months of May through August. With guarantee flows released from a reservoir, the South Fork Wild and Scenic designation will be a welcome to the paddling community at large.
Read more about the BLM's recent recommendations: http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/folsom/rmp_index_page.html
June 5, 2007
Marshall Gold Historic Discovery Park
Gold Discovery Park Association
Congratulations to the newly appointed Executive Director, Deb Jensen for the GDPA.
The Gold Discovery Park Association enhanced programs help to conserve the historical state park in Coloma California. the park lies on the South Fork American River, a popular whitewater rafting trip in the Western United States. "It is one of the west coast's portals to history," says Deb Jensen regarding the famous historical park.
The association is dedicated in preserving the state park and is in partnership with California State Parks. President, Judi Bowers, of the Board of Directors says, "Deb brings a plethora of knowledge about nonprofit organizations as well as an interest in our Park and community; we are very pleased that she has joined us as executive director. We believe that she will lead us to meet our substantial goals."
Ms Jensen comes from many non-profit organizations such as the American River Conservancy and the Catalina Island Conservancy. She and her family reside in the community.
June 1, 2007
American River Conservancy
News and Announcements
The American River Conservancy has sent us a couple of announcements for upcoming events.
Contact information is below this post...
American River Confluence Festival
(June 10th, 2007)
ARC will be participating in PARC's (Protect American River Canyon) 16th annual Confluence Festival. This outdoor event will have recreational opportunities, music, entertainment, food, nature and art activities. Protection is the theme and appreciation of the American River resources. The event is on Sunday June 10th, 2007 from 9am to 4pm at the American River Overlook located on Pacific Street behind the fairgrounds in Auburn, CA.
American River Cleanup and Coastal Cleanup Combined Efforts
The annual American River Cleanup will be held on July 5th and September 15th. ARC will be partnering with El Dorado County, the California Coastal Commission, California rafting companies and other local businesses to organize the cleanup on September 15th.
Please contact Gail Zeigler at (530) 621-1224 or Gail@arconservancy.org.
May 3, 2007
California's Weird Weather
More Snow and Rain
This week's recent flurry of storms hitting Northern California
has been a reprieve for spring run rivers. The North Fork American is stabilizing this week at 1,300 cfs beyond the predicted season. Mother Nature fools even the most educated guesses throughout the whitewater rafting groups.
Get on the following rivers now: North Fork American, Yuba, Cal Salmon, Tuolumne, Merced and South Fork American. Flows are up! For more information on California whitewater rafting, see the C-W-R.com site for descriptions and a list of outfitters.
For those of you who love Class 4+ paddling, you just got an extension on the early Spring rafting in California! Do it while you can before it becomes a creeking run.
April 10, 2007
California Spring Rafting
Shorter Melt Cycles
The less than stellar snowpack in the Sierras has shortened our North Fork American
Class 4+ rafting season. The next 3 weeks should have runnable flows for river rafting and those who are North Fork enthusiasts should jump on the run now. Flows are hovering at around 1,000 cfs to 1,200 cfs. This is a good flow for the paddler who has left behind the high water Class 3+ runs from the last two years.
Over on the other whitewater sections of the American River, the South Fork American has had great flows of around 2,000 cfs and upwards towards 2,700 cfs. The Middle Fork American hasn't budged much except for odd releases in the evening.
Dam operators are managing flows based on several criteria including weather, contracts and other variables.
March 28, 2007
North Fork American River
More Snowpack for the Watershed!
In the last two days, the summit experienced March's roar as a dump of snow landed on the watershed of the river. Up to a foot of new snow will provide a longer whitewater season on this river. River rafting enthusiasts should experience flows from 1,000 cfs upwards to 2,500 cfs during the season.
If Mother Nature keeps temperatures at spring levels, the melt will be nice and slow with flows around 1,500 cfs. An ideal level for rafting and kayaking. Above 2,500 cfs will require advanced, athletic paddlers since the flow becomes faster and the holes stickier.
The North Fork American River is a premier whitewater rafting trip in Northern California.
March 20, 2007
California Rafting
Season is now Open
Blue skies and a sunny day greeted California rafters this past weekend. The verdant hills rivaling the green of the day. Contact your favorite rafting company and start booking your reservations for this season.
Try to get your springtime runs in soon as the days are warming up and the melt has started. Best bets are the North Fork American, Yuba, and Merced for early season whitewater rafting.
March 12, 2007
California Rafting Trips
This Weekend!
Most springtime rafting companies will be on one of the forks of the American River. South Fork American has had consistent flows this month and should be available from now through September. An ideal beginner to intermediate river rafting run, the South Fork is a highly regarded and popular river trip.
Over on the North Fork American, the flows are dependent upon melt cycle and precipitation. The night time temperatures on the summit have been above 32 degrees Farenheit which starts the melt cycle. This week with warm day time temperatures and below freezing at night, the flow has started on this popular Class 4 advanced run.
Time to get the boating and rafting clothes out along with your gear. California rafting season begins!
February 26, 2007
Klamath River
Karuk Mountain Dance Council
should reflect the Native American's religious ceremonies that are held along the riverbanks during the river rafting season. Please note that the Karuk Jump Dance has an August through September schedule for a quiet zone near several locations.
Some restrictions for take-outs are also located near the mouth of the Cal Salmon River on Ishi Pishi Road.
For more information on the recent letter sent by the Karuk Mountain Dance Council, see the rafting news blog for today's date. Also, if you would like more information on the ceremonies, please contact David and Jan Tripp at (530) 469-3432. Or write to them at PO Box 325, Orleans CA 95556."
February 23, 2007
Patagonia Spring Catalogue
Yosemite Photos and Stories
Patagonia's luscious spring catalogue will be arriving at your door soon.
Look for stories and photos about beautiful Yosemite. Glen Denny's Yosemite photos are included.
Check out his recent book "Yosemite in the Sixties". A great nostalgic read for the armchair outdoors person.
February 20, 2007
California Weather
Storm Watch for the Sierras
Storms are brewing and this week looks great for snowpack building.
Sierra Skiers will be loving the new dump on the summit as lower elevation welcome the dusting.
A 40 to 80% chance of snow is expected by the end of this week. Colder temperatures will be expected throughout the Sierras and lower elevations.
Paddlers are having fun throughout the area as precipitation has fed streams and rivers. Kayakers have been paddling the North Fork American, Smith and Cal Salmon for optimum early season boating.
January 29, 2007
Northern California Rivers
Environmental and Political Watch
Lots of river politics have been in the news here in California
lately (as if that's not unusual). This is definitely the time to educate oneself to the myriad complexity of water politics. There are several resources on the web for rivers in northern California. One that has regular news updates and analysis is the "River Watch," a site that alerts the public and agencies about pollution in rivers and their urban companions.
California river watch is a good read with great environmental resources and links to river protection groups. Grab a cup of coffee and take notes!
January 17, 2007
W.E.T. River Trips - Guide School
Reservations are now open
The majority of the schools are on the American River, the northern California areas on the Smith and Cal Salmon and the southern portion of the state on the Kings and Kern rivers. W.E.T. River Trips guide school starts in mid-March through early May. Sign-ups started on January 15th and will continue until March 15th. By then, the school should be full. All guide school participants should be prepared with their First Aid and CPR certification completed. Every commercial rafting guide is required to have this bare minimum.
W.E.T. River Trips guide school focuses strictly on commercial guiding, therefore, the program is geared not only towards rafting, but also on the complex management of guide-client interaction, government river regulations and food safety preparations.
Whitewater guide schools are fun. The interaction between the company trainers and the student is one of deep bonding and team-building. In other words, you become a family.
January 9, 2007
DOE Squashes California's Water Conservation Efforts
Water Efficient Washing Machines
This administration continues to reek havoc on environmental and conservation concerns.
The DOE (Department of Energy) has decided that California has failed to prove that the state has "unusual and compelling water interests." DOH? What? I can't help but be totally incredulous to this claim. However, the subsequent elimination of Grey Davis' 2002 approved legislation to mandate water-efficient washing machines in California has now been squashed.
Our Governor Schwarzenegger applied for a federal waiver so that California could enforce the new standards. The DOE in its infinite wisdom actually declared that California did not have good enough reasons to implement this new standard. From the beginnings of California's history, our state has always struggled with water concerns. With the new standards, we would have had an enormous energy savings with this waiver.
An estimated savings of 33 billion gallons of water per year could have been saved along with an energy savings that could have run 85,000 households.
Imagine, 50 states with 50 different conservation plans; all trying to address their state's needs... and then here comes the DOE, with a preposterous federal stance declaring that California has no need for water or energy conservation. Tell that to the farmers, fishermen, developers, river rafters and energy-makers here in our state every time we have to go through legislation, a bond issue or another expensive political fight to help us with our growing population and our dwindling energy and water resources.
December 27, 2006
Burnash Model
Predicting River Flows
The river forecast model was developed 30 years ago
by hydrologist Robert Burnash. The Sacramento Soil Moisture Accounting Model that he developed is the key to forecasting river flows and river behavior throughout the nation. In an attempt to forecast how high a river could go during storms, the Burnash model takes into account several factors including soil saturation, rain and snowfall predictions for the watersheds, readings from the 600 river and rain gauges throughout 3 states and a computer model called SNOW-17. The computer model keeps track of how much precipitation has fallen and distinguishes between rainfall and snowfall since snow turns into a runoff of water.
Think of it this way: if you have a bucket of dirt and you slowly sprinkle water into it. First the soil becomes saturated and the bucket will show no water inside, but wet dirt. Add a bunch ice cubes (snow and ice); still no overflow. Then add more water in a large stream (storm). Since the dirt is already saturated, the additional water and moisture begins to supersaturate the soil and there is no where to go but vertical. The ice starts to melt as more water is added until the bucket overflows. That's flood conditions. That's why rivers overflow their banks.
Another major factor is an artificial one. Dams are controlled by water managers. Conversations between computer modelers and dam operators are essential in order to predict river flows. The problems usually occur when there is too much water being held behind a major reservoir as a storm moves in or a warm storm melts a snowpack causing the dam to overflow. As managers make way for more incoming flow from the mountains, dam operators must release the water and sometimes overwhelm the banks of the rivers.
The choreographed dance between computer modelers, dam operators and Mother Nature is one that is currently being updated with the new gauges on the American River. The newer system will help further refinements in analyzing this data. It's this analysis that helps to preserve urban areas in a floodplain. The DWR (Department of Water Resources) help produce those nice graphs and river flow charts that all of us rafters, paddlers depend on for our water recreation on our rivers.
December 4, 2006
California South Fork American River
Winter Rafting
Mike and the boys took a run down the river this past Saturday.
Beautiful blue skies, crisp weather and 1,550 cfs flow greeted the rafters as they took their journey through the Class 3+ rapids. Mike was a past paddling client with W.E.T. River Trips for the last few years as he became more and more addicted to rafting and paddling sports. He's a banker in Sacramento and is usually found in a suit and tie as he pours over figures and business contacts in his normal daily life. How did a guy like this get to be a rafting guide?
First you really have to like the water. Then you take part in reserving a rafting reservation with a professional guide company. Then you do it again and again. You burn through all the rivers in the state as your skill level gets better and better. Then you want to do it as a guide and control the raft yourself... and that's how he got to this point.
He took several of our early spring trips when the flows are high and wild on our Class 4 rivers. And then he joined the infamous river rafting guide training program with W.E.T. Everyday, rain or shine, guide wannabees are trained in a hands-on manner in all the aspects of commercial guiding. Not easy... especially when weather and river conditions are detrimental.
Some may say it's a midlife crisis; others will point out that it's a better way to spend your time instead of on a golf course. No matter, rafting and paddling does something to some people that is hard to explain. Those of you who have the addiction, know what I'm talking about...
November 27, 2006
California Recreation and Traffic
SACOG - MTP
Sacramento Area Council of Governments
The MTP - Metropolitan Traffic Plan from SACOG is trying to address traffic issues in the Greater Valley and Foothills of California. From commuters to recreationists, we're all guilty when we travel one person to vehicle to get where we need to go. Daily commuter traffic has come to a crawl around the i-80 and Hwy 50 corridors as past experience shows. Combine that with the recreationists on I-80 trying to get to Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Donner Summit and Reno for outdoor recreational opportunities and you have a traffic problem that has become unrelenting. Even Hwy 50 is stalled now around the outer Sacramento regions and into Placerville.
As a car driver, you can help by joining your own community members of SACOG to help with input on your favorite traffic pet peeves. Check their website for more information.
November 20, 2006
California American River - SMUD Relicensing
Next Step Federal Approval
California's popular whitewater river has gained a 50 year agreement.
Rafters and kayakers are celebrating in unison over the long five year negotiation over the UARP relicensing agreement. Finally, the 13 agencies including government and non-profits can submit this agreement to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission next year for approval. For more details and the complete story, visit the Sacramento Bee's online story analysis for an indepth read.
Boaters can look forward to controlled, reliable releases on the South Fork American River and its upper sections at Slab Creek and Silver Fork. For the next 50 years, we can all rejoice in having this whitewater rafting and kayaking section of the American River protected.
November 8, 2006
California Levees
Proposition 1E Passes!
California landmark Proposition 1E, the $4.1 billion bond measure has passed.
The people living near levees will be more secure as the sagging and crumbling infrastructure is shored up and fixed. From Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and throughout the rest of the valley, the neighborhoods near these levees are as threatened as New Orleans. What was amazing is that 64% of the entire voting base here in California approved this very expensive bond. We have learned from past mistakes as witnessed after Hurricane Katrina. Fix the levees and save future money!
Along with Proposition 84 monies, that adds an additional $800 million to the pot, these measures will assure Californians that, at last, the levees will finally be a focus. Today's Sacramento Bee has a quote from Deputy Director of the State Department of Water Resources, Les Harder, "It's probably the largest investment for flood control ever - something that's been sorely needed for a long time. It was gratifying to see that people across the state recognize the dire need."
Bond monies will also be distributed to the upgrades to Folsom Dam. The approximate cost of that project is in the neighborhood of $1 billion. Sacramento's Mayor Heather Fargo said, "This was wonderful news. 1E is huge for Sacramento."
We, in Northern California, would like to extend our gratitude to the Southern California voters for helping to pass this very important bond issue. And remember, two-thirds of our drinking water comes from the Delta alone.
Thanks to the Sacramento Bee for story update
October 28, 2006
American River Fishing
Salmon and Trout
Fishing enthusiasts on the American River are disappointed in the condition of the Salmon fish
that is being caught near the Nimbus Basin. Fishing closes on Tuesday, October 31st from the upstream side of Ancil Hoffman Park to Folsom Lake. After the closure, many fishermen will switch locations to the Dredger Holes at night with glow-in-the-dark lures. Fishing on the North Fork, Middle Fork and South Fork of the American River above Highway 49 will close on November 15th.Fat rainbow and browns are being caught in those tributaries using grasshoppers, crickets and flies.
Not much time left! For all those fishing junkies, now's the time to go as the weather has been superb! Thanks to the Sacramento Bee for Valley Fishing updates!
October 18, 2006
Hawaii Earthquake 6.7
Surfing:Back to normal
Tourists do not have to cancel vacation time in the beautiful state of Hawaii. The islands are open for business despite the 6.7 magnitude earthquake last Sunday. Out of 72,000 hotels and resorts, only 100 hotels were damaged and closed. Thousands of tourists are arriving in Hawaii enjoying Fall discounts from the airlines and resort areas. Surfers at Waikiki and beach goers enjoy the days in the oceans at Oahu and the Big Island.
On November 12 through December 20th, professional surfers' most prestigious and coveted title will have them competing for the 2006 Vans Triple Crown of Surfing on Oahu's North Shore.
Also, the $710,000 Series will determine the women’s Association of Surfing Professional’s (ASP) world title, participants on the 2007 World Qualifying Series (WQS) and World Championship Tour (WCT), and the world’s best tube rider at the infamous Banzai Pipeline.
The Vans Triple Crown can be compared to the Masters in golf. A lot is riding on this competition as competitors World Champ, Kelly Slater from Florida, Australia's Layne Beachley, Melanie Redman-Carr and reigning world champion Chelsea Georgeson compete for titles.
Californians Timmy Reyes and Bobby Martinez expect to place in the top 10 finish while 14 year-old John John Florence looks to build upon last year’s debut.
Go and check it out! Thanks to Global Surf News for this post!
October 16, 2006
A No Water Day...
South Fork American River
This past Saturday, October 14th had no water releases.
Again, no warning or any communications with our liasons or any postings. On Friday, there was so much water released from the reservoir that flows ranged from 1,000 cfs up to almost 3,000 cfs... and then on Saturday... 200 cfs!
We had several guests travel from the Bay Area in hopes to catch this great release of water. The guests were young and enthusiastic, and our reservation staff had explained that there was a 90% chance of good water. This information was given to us by our liasons after several conversations with key players and was passed around to several rafting outfitters and news blogs. The posting was everywhere. This was also the weekend of the Whitewater Symposium hosted by kayaker extraordinaire, Dan Crandall of Current Adventures. Though the symposium's focus was on marketing and industry promotion, world-famous kayakers were there to participate and paddle with their brethren on the South Fork American.
The lack of communication is becoming a stagnant and reoccuring theme every Fall. Why? Why can't someone relay this information within a 24 hour period? Why is there a lack of communication between the agencies and water managers? Can someone please 'splain that to me?
October 8, 2006
Gift Certificates for Rafting
River Trips for 2007
Holiday Gift sales have started for this upcoming gift giving season!
Our most popular gift item is the One Day South Fork American Chili Bar run. This run is both technical and accommodating to athletic beginners and paddlers. A 10.5 mile run through Class 3 to 4 rapids will challenge any outdoor enthusiast. The Gorge section of the South Fork is a Class 2 to 3 rafting trip best suited for families with young children ages 8 through 11 years old. Acclimation is available on the Gorge as it starts off with mostly Class 2 rapids. Also, for the more athletic paddler, the Full River South Fork American encompasses both sections of the river totalling 21-miles of whitewater fun! The Full River is best reserved for the high water spring runs and is recommended for ages 12 and up. We also recommend prior paddling or rafting for this 21-mile trip.
For those of you who are looking for more adventure, choose a gift on a wilderness trip! The Middle Fork American is an ideal wilderness rafting trip for the newbie. Beautiful, isolated canyon located in Placer and El Dorado County is close to Sacramento and San Francisco. This is the gem of the California State Park's Auburn Recreation Area. Difficult rapids dot this stretch with the main highlight featuring "Tunnel Chute Rapid." The chute was carved out by early gold miners that diverted the entire river into a 15-foot wide slot that enters a dark tunnel. This is one rapid that is unique to any other rapid in the state of California.
And for the experienced, hardcore spring paddler, give them a gift of intensity on the North Fork American River. This Class 4 to 4+ river is only for paddlers over the age of 16 years old and only for the experienced. Mid-March is the start up for this river as we watch natural river flows daily on this run.
Keep in mind that all gifts can be upgraded at the time of the reservation. Or it can be downgraded depending on your skill set. Call us when you are ready to reserve for that gift certificate that Aunt Margaret or dear ol' Dad gave you!
October 2, 2006
W.E.T. River Trips
Thanks to all our rafting clients this year!
W.E.T. River Trips ended our 2006 rafting season on September 30th!
We just want to thank all of our past paddling clients and new friends that joined us this season. Your faith and goodwill helped make our season joyful and stress-free as we battled high water early in the season and wildfires during the late rafting season. October is still a gorgeous time to go boating and rafting. Fisherman are out now fishing for Salmon on many waterways throughout Northern California. On the American River, the floaters and rafters are still out there enjoying solitude and quiet as the South Fork American today was over 3,000 cfs! WOW! So there is still boatable water coming from those reservoirs. Just pay attention to the flow charts on the internet or on our site.
As we take a brief break from the office, our staff will soon be back getting ready for the 2007 Rafting Season. New adventures are being designed as we revamp old programs and update them to a new more modern focus. Visit our website often throughout the fall and winter months. We'll be updating pages and getting rafting news to you!
September 27, 2006
Rafting News
More than just a Blog
Our rafting blog has been around since 1995 on the original Geocities
site which is now Yahoo! Originally, the journal was written as an outlet for rafting stories and news about the rivers that W.E.T. River Trips ran in California. The journal was the beginnings of our official company blog. Written in-house by our guide staff, sales force and owners, the musings became a great source of information about California rafting. From updates on California rivers and its flows to commercial rafting activity, W.E.T.'s blog became a resource for the rafting and paddling communities. Thus, the web world gravitated to this type of publishing until everyone started calling it a "blog" a coined term derived from "web log."
Once the blogging started, we just never stopped. Written like a diary, each entry was a glimpse of our company's inner workings. Sometimes that was not a good idea, as some of us complained about other rafting companies, the clients or each other! We never realized how many were reading the blog until we posted controversial topics... much to our chagrin! And now, our blog is the oldest rafting blog in the West! To this day, the blog is still written by our staff and friends; no professional writers allowed, so forgive our typos and grammatical errors.
The new phase for blogging now encompasses a news element so that others can contribute to our rafting news. The rafting news blog will allow us to write about other subjects that are related to rafting in general. We'll keep you posted on rafting, paddling and surfing news around the country, and mostly in California. Stop by and visit often or better yet, subscribe to the feeds!
September 25, 2006
New News!
W.E.T. River Trips introduces our rafting news blog
Since 1978, W.E.T. has been a resource for the whitewater rafting & paddling communities.
Rafting in the western United States has grown into a tremendous economic force incorporating well-known paddling communities such as California, Oregon, Washington and more. These areas have a plethora of streams, rivers and oceans to play on using various craft such as rafts, kayaks, boards and even the body! Rafting, kayaking, paddling and surfing are all water sports that the general public participates in and enjoys.If you aren't a water person, you might not enjoy these activities... but if you're a water dog like the rest of us water fools; come rafting first, graduate to kayaking and then paddle yourself to the ocean to top off your watersports on a short or long board! Our motto, "Get off the couch!" is reflected everyday by the way we promote rafting in California, kayaking out west and surfing oceans and dealing with conservation issues on our waterways and our seas. Please join our brethren of water lovers and have fun at your nearest water source. A precious resource that we constantly need to protect. Join your favorite conservation organization and help save these watery places.
September 20, 2006
Middle Fork American River
Access & Power Issues
Now that the Ralston Fire has been contained,
many paddlers throughout the Northern California region are asking, "... when can we raft the Middle Fork American?" First we had the wildfire, with untold economic damage; then Mosquito Ridge Road was closed due to the fire; and then the fire burnt PG&E power lines that help to operate the darn dam!
Rumor has it (a little birdie told me) that the road should be opened by September 21st on Thursday. The flow is low because of the power line damage and all rafting companies are hoping that they can get that situation remedied as quickly as possible.
UPDATE::California State Parks just updated the road conditions. Road is now open and power lines are fixed. Dam operators will be ramping up tonight for normal flows. The Middle Fork American is back in action!
W.E.T. River Trips
September 18, 2006
Update: The Ralston Fire
100% Containment!
Hallelujah! The Ralston Fire has been 100% contained as of September 17, 2006.
8,423 acres was burned and the economic impact of fighting this fire was huge. Yesterday's Sacramento Bee had a story on how forest fire suppression has caused untold damage and impact on all fire fighting resources. Titled "Budget going up in smoke," the Bee's story is a reminder on how much money it takes to fight fires. Averaging 12 million dollars a day, the US Forest Service is spending money and quickly depleting its funds. The Ralson Fire alone cost the agencies approximately 10.5 million dollars as of September 16th. Helicopters at $32,000 per day and airplanes at $6,000 per hour... well, you do the math. And that doesn't include personnel on the ground and its support such as food, water and shelter.
Whitewater rafting was curtailed on the Middle Fork American due to the Mosquito Ridge Road closure. Our rafters await news about the opening date of this road. More info to come...
W.E.T. River Trips
September 14, 2006
Vote for the Environment!
Voter Registration
All you rafters, paddlers, surfers and outdoor enthusiasts,
make sure you register and vote this election. You have the power to keep our rivers, streams, oceans and wild areas natural and safe from future encroaching developments. Over at Patagonia, their retail stores have voter registration cards and also information scorecards from the League of Conservation Voters. Their scorecards will help you decide on which candidates you can honestly support based on their environmental voting record. An online voter registration system is set up at Working Assets.
With over 130 Govenor, Senate and House of Representative seats up for election, you, as a new, young voter can make a huge impact on how this country focuses on environmental needs. Registering online is as simple as it gets. Get off the mountains, rivers and streams for just one day and go out and vote. Make a difference!
September 12, 2006
The Ralston Fire
Fire has not been contained as of Today
California State Parks has issued an update about the road access issues
on the Middle Fork American. Unfortunately, this fire has been a difficult one for CDF (California Department of Forestry ) and as of this morning, containment is only at 35%. Mosquito Ridge Road is still closed to all traffic and our river trips have been moved over to the South Fork American Full River runs. This is one of the steepest and deepest canyons in the state and the firefighters are having a difficult time negotiating steep terrain and inaccessible areas. A Ralston Fire blog has been set up for the surrounding communities to get information about containment and community meetings.
September 5, 2006
Middle Fork American River
Maintenance at the Dam
Recently, California State Parks issued an update regarding the flows
on the Middle Fork American. Flows will be shutdown after October 2, 2006 due to maintenance and other issues at the reservoir. Flows may be up during November, but scheduled releases may be unpredictable during the fall months. No updates have been presented yet for the South Fork American River which has had normal summer flows throughout this past month.
July 17, 2006
California Independent System Operator
ISO Energy Alert!
News Alert:: Due to extreme high temperatures in California,
the ISO is warning the public to try to conserve as much energy as possible from now through Wednesday, July 19th. Temperatures are ranging in the Valley from 100 degrees upwards to 106 degrees. This power demand will stretch the electrical grid to its maximum. Remember, our rivers flowing from dams will produce this energy to give us air conditioning and other electrical uses. Here are suggestions from the ISO on how to help California maintain its power grid.
- 1) Turning the air conditioning up to 78 degrees. (Still comfortable and saves large amounts of electricity)
- 2) Postponing using equipment and appliances until after 7 p.m. (Shift electricity use until after peak)
- 3) Turning off all unnecessary lights. (lighting uses lots of electricity, and unless you have energy efficient lighting, your inefficient lighting heats up the room and causes a higher air conditioning electricity demand....and bill.)
For more information about how to save energy in times like these go to http://www.fypower.org.
Go to the California ISO's web page for the Alerts, Warnings & Emergency (AWE) status level http://www.caiso.com.
Thank you to Sacramento Metro Chamber for this alert!
July 14, 2006
Coloma-Lotus Valley News
Lotus Art Studio
Lotus is a tiny community next to Coloma on the famous South Fork American River.
The community houses many whitewater rafting enthusiasts who have settled to live near the beloved river. The river influences and inspires many through creative endeavors such as photography, art, music and design. Betty Norvall's Lotus Art Studio is a hub for local artists at 7310 Hwy 49. Stop in and visit this cultural center of stain glass, flower photography, raku, silk scarves and more. This weekend, July 15th showcases California artist Andie Thrams' beautiful botanical illustrations. You have probably seen her greeting card work throughout stores in California. Visit their website at www.lotusartstudio.com or call for more information 530.530.642.0678 about upcoming events.
July 7, 2006
RaftInfo launches new site!
Pat Strader's RaftInfo has the Web 2.0 Remake
RaftInfo directory launched a new look recently including a blog and rotating outfitter links.
Pat's site has been around quite a while and W.E.T. River Trips has supported his directory from its infancy. His webdesign and marketing company has designed Songer Whitewater's website and many others. California, Oregon, West Virginia and other well-known river rafting areas throughout the world are described with featured outfitters and outfitter listings. The design is sleek with the ubiquituous orange that signifies the new look for Web 2.0. We look forward to many more seasons with his marketing and design input. Congratulations to RaftInfo!
June 8, 2006
American River: Festivals Galore!
Confluence Festival and Trailfest Coming this Week
PARC, Protect American River Canyons brings the American River Confluence Festival
this June 11th on Sunday. This is the 15th Annual free festival in Auburn, California. "Featuring Haute Trash Recyclables Fashion Show, Saul Rayo & Cocina del Mundo world beat music, Wild Things Wildlife Assembly, Sierra Storytelling, good food at the American River Overlook on Pacific Ave behind the Gold Country fairgrounds in Auburn." Contact: PARC @ 530-887-9314 or visit www. parc-auburn.org for a map to the festival. Thanks to Tony DeRiggi for this update from PARC!
June 12th, Monday celebrates the annual Trailfest Festival, a major fundraiser for the American River Conservancy. The Coloma-Lotus Valley comes alive with partying rafting guides and the local community. Rafting outfitters donate money and party location in supporting this fun evening of food, music, live auction and more. For more information, visit the American River Conservacy website for the Trailfest Festival events and details.
So people, get on board and party with the American River, one of the most precious river gems in the West! Check out all these events this weekend and then go rafting!
June 2, 2006
Kudos to the San Francisco Chronicle!
Paul McHugh: South Fork American River Report
Last Sunday, well-known outdoor writer, Paul McHugh of the San Francisco Chronicle
and his lovely wife, joined our South Fork American River trip on a Full River 21 mile run. Flows were in the 4,500 to 5,500 cfs range that day as they enjoyed a warm, sunny day with scores of other rafters. Andrew, our senior guide was their captain. McHugh's rafting article can be read here. W.E.T. River Trips appreciates the well-written piece as it helps to explain the different types of rivers available throughout California's great river systems. Our industry appreciates his high water report!
May 26, 2006
Patagonia Updates:News
Water Girl USA celebrates Summer!
Patagonia and Water Girl USA team up for a summer celebration of surf action.
Environmentally conscious Patagonia, gear and clothing manufacturer, and also a long-time champion of various causes, would like to remind consumers about product lines. "Do you support an environmentally destructive surf industry, or do you demand more from businesses making money off the surfing experience and lifestyle?" Check the links to their site for great surf stories by writers like Gerry Lopez, an ultimate surfer at Pipeline and an ambassador for Patagonia.
Here at W.E.T. River Trips, we also bring that question to our users. Demanding more from business will help all businesses to take a hard look at where we can help. Patagonia uses organic cotton for their board shorts and uses recycled polyester for their synthetic fleece. They also donate 1% of their sales to environmental grass roots projects. What are we doing to help?
W.E.T. has promised the American River Conservancy a bundle of river trips for the 2006 year. Along with many of the American River outfitters, we all support the Conservancy's grassroot efforts for fundraising. Trailfest is coming soon along with Headwaters Institution's program on the same day. More about that to come. We honor Patagonia's lead by trying to apply the same philosphies that they have nurtured over these many years. A salute to that great company is warranted!
May 23, 2006
RetroCrush:the Al Gore Interview
Robert Berry does it Again!
Robert has captured a real coup on his crazy satirical and wacky website, RetroCrush, the World's Greatest Pop Culture site.
The site is a mix of funny stories, wacky themes from pro wrestling to movie reviews. Robert, with his liberal and bent viewpoints on politics and life in general managed to interview Al Gore and the director, Davis Guggenheim about the movie, An Inconvenient Truth, an environmental look at global warming.
Robert met Gore and Guggenheim at the St. Regis Hotel in San Francisco, where he engaged both in a Q & A about the movie, the presidential elections, the future of our country and gas prices. Much has been said about global warming from our current adminstration; basically, that it's a hoax? Any grade school kid can tell you that global warming is a real event that is happening already. Witness our crazy weather patterns, witness the icecaps melting, witness our depletion of our rain forests... now tell me that it's all a hoax!
I was impressed with Gore's responses and one that sums it up nice and tidy,"...There are 5 points to the global consensus. Number one, global warming is real, Number two, we are mainly responsible for it. Number 3, the effects are catastrophic, Number 4, we need to fix it quickly, and number 5 it’s not too late." Are you hearing him? Watch this movie... no, demand to see it!
Thanks to Robert Berry and RetroCrush
May 10, 2006
Friends of the River:Auburn Dam
Call for Action; HELP with the Protest!
The Auburn Dam rears its ugly head again...
One of the obstacles against the dam builders has been a lack of local partners to share the cost of this very expensive and foolish project. Why? Because no single or organized groups have been dumb enough to fund this project. Money, geological considerations (earthquake!) and re-routing much needed political resources have stopped this "old" concept. We need those resources for the levees and the raising of Folsom Dam. That will go far in protecting the Central Valley and Delta areas.
But wait, the The American River Authority (ARA), a joint powers authority, has publicly expressed interest in stepping up to be that local partner. ACK! The prospect of sponsoring the proposed Auburn Dam will be on the agenda of their May 15th meeting in Auburn.
MAY 15TH, 2006; we need your help.
Meeting Time: 3:00 PM, Monday, May 15 (Gather outside at 2:30pm)
Location: Placer County Administrative Office, 175 Fulweiler Avenue, Auburn, 5603
Click link for map: http://www.placer.ca.gov/maps/domes.htm
ARGUMENTS ARE:
Auburn Dam is too expensive" – A price tag of $3 billion and rising.
Auburn Dam is too risky – It steals financial and political resources from much needed flood control improvements throughout the Central Valley and it will be built on a system of earthquake faults.
Auburn Dam is too damaging – It will drown thousands of acres of important wildlife habitat and 50 miles of river canyons that provide outdoor recreation for more than a half million people every year.
Please RSVP to Friends of the River at shopkins@friendsoftheriver.org if you can attend.
Thanks to Friends of the River for sharing this info w/our readers!
April 26, 2006
US Forest Service in Error?
America Outdoors Info about Fees
Just received an interesting note about US Forest Service fees on the rivers throughout the United States.
Many government agencies tag on a user fee for operating on lands and on the rivers. Most of these fees are obvious; road use, access use, egress use, etc. What's interesting is that there has been some dialogue in Congress about whether the Forest Service fees accurately reflect the amenities given to the public to warrant fees in the first place. Here is the blow by blow info from America Outdoors, the national organization that oversees our entire outfitting industry:
"In response to questions raised by Senator Larry Craig at a Congressional hearing last fall, Under Secretary of Mark Rey conceded in a recent follow-up letter that the Forest Service was not in compliance with the law (Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act) at most fee sites. The law requires that sites have a minimum of six amenities to qualify for collection of a Standard Amenity Fee. Of 1,339 sites that are located within agency-designated "High Impact Recreation Areas," 981 are Standard Amenity Fee sites. Forest Service documents revealed that 739 Standard Amenity Fee sites, or 75% of the total, do not have all of the amenities the law requires. It is uncertain whether the agency will cease collection of fees at these sites or try to bring them up to the standards to qualify for collection. On another matter, the Forest Service is planning to close many backcountry campgrounds due to lack of funds or lack of use. Some have pump wells that do not meet EPA standards for filtration systems."
Most government agencies have had their budgets sharply cut by the Federal and State levels. We hope this current issue will not hurt our industry by way of increases in fees or abolishing the basic amenities that our public has come to enjoy.
April 21, 2006
Sacramento Levees
The Doolittle Philosophy
First of all, none of us really know Congressman Doolittle's philosophy, but it is apparent that the Auburn Dam has reared its head again.
What has changed since the death of Congressman Matsui and the agreement between the two men for a compromise on the flood control packages that they both signed in 2003?
Here's what changed: Katrina and New Orleans. That is the reason for the Auburn Dam proposal. Simply that one horrendous event that showed how incredibly powerful water can be in its destruction of a city laid vulnerable to hurricanes. Let's take a look at New Orleans. Would a dam have saved that city? Would a dam have stopped the water from pounding into the levees and making them fail? From what we all understand now, is that those levees have been in disrepair for many years while politicians struggled with the federal administration in trying to secure funding for those levees. Sound familiar?
Sacramento and federal legislators finally had a proposal worked out to really prevent a catastrophic flood in the valley. The politicians had made their compromises and were set to create a budget to increase the capacity for Folsom Dam by raising the level. There were also monies to be set aside for the maintenance and repair of older levees. Sacramento and the entire Delta has seen levee breeches many times throughout the course of the Valley history. It's a flood plain, folks. So, smaller authorities had tried to set aside monies when needed to help shore up the old levee system. After the floods of '86, 95, 96, 05; it is apparent that we've been literally sitting on our backside fighting political battles over a dam that has been deemed by many entities such as Army Corp of Engineers, Geologists, Hydrologists, Seismic experts and yes, Environmentalists (believe me, it's not a swear word) and even fiscally conservative groups have proved how financially and structurally unreasonable this project really is.
When are we going to wake up and see that this Auburn Dam group has created a need based on some other state's terrible horror. And to use New Orleans as a backdrop for a publicity campaign to start-up the Auburn Dam fight again is so irresponsible of Congressman Doolittle's group. They would rather risk flooding Sacramento and the Delta than fix our damn levees.
And honestly, who would you rather believe? A congressman who is being investigated because he's been kicking back campaign funds into his household account (yes, we know it's technically legal... that's what scares us even more) or the other side who has nothing to gain but to save money and lives and a beautiful canyon. Though our company would lose a precious river rafting resource, believe me, we would survive. But we also live in Sacramento and we are well aware of the flood issue; that's why we need immediate attention to address the levees now. Don't delay this part of flood control otherwise, as they're building the dam 10 years from now, Sacramento will have already had a breech in the levees that will surely devastate as we bicker about someone's ego project.
April 20, 2006
Lots of Environmental News Today!
Earth Day, American River Festival & Patagonia 1%
Many community groups will be joining CSU Sacramento for the 36th Annual Earth Day celebration.
A day to celebrate the earth and its bounties. Along with UC Davis's Picnic Day, Sac State is calling their event "Sustainability Earth Day Fair." This upcoming Saturday, April 22nd is the kick off. 41 projects organized by Californis State Park Foundation are offered to community groups to tackle.
And on the river, the 24th Annual American River Festival will be happening with the ever-so-popular whitewater rodeo at the Chili Bar hole this Saturday, April 22nd. Come watch the rodeo antics of world-class kayakers and then watch as the Banshees surf the river. A river conservation fundraiser and promotion for rivers. Contact 530.626.6882 to register for the race.
In today's email alerts, we received a reminder from Patagonia about their 1% program. In celebrating Earth Day, Patagonia reminds all businesses (especially those of us who work in beautiful places) that donating a percentage of our annual net revenue will help various programs around the earth. Here are some links to the different groups and Patagonia's 1% program:
Find a group near you
Visit 1% For The Planet
Thanks to CSUSacramento, ARFestival & Patagonia for these posts!
April 14, 2006
The American River Conservancy
South Fork American Park Land Acquisition
ARC is making substantial progress on the acquisition of 629 acres within the South Fork American River
corridor which will extend trails and connect county, state and BLM-administered park lands. We are awaiting approval on a key $2.7 million dollar grant from the State Resources Agency to assist the ARC in funding these acquisitions.
Within the upper Cosumnes River watershed ARC received tentative approval of a $1 million grant that would help acquire 15 parcels and over 3 miles of native fisheries and river front habitat on the North Fork Cosumnes River between Bucks Bar Road to the east and Highway 49 to the west. Additional grant funds for these acquisitions are being requested from the Sierra-Cascade Grant Program.
Lastly, ARC is close to acquiring another 40 acres of rare plant habitat fronting the lower portions of Weber Creek. This acquisition once completed would be integrated into the Pine Hill Ecological Preserve and managed for rare plant protection and the protection of reproductive habitat for five native fish species found within this section of Weber Creek.
Thank you ARC for this update and post!
April 11, 2006
American River Rafting News
1st Annual Downriver Raft Race "The West Coast Rafting Championships"
25th annual American River Festival www.americanriverfestival.org
Saturday, April 22, 2006:
Meet at Chili Bar Put In for the 6-mile Class 3 Down River Raft Race from the Nugget Campground to Trouble Maker Rapid
8:00 am - Registration Opens at Chili Bar for Downriver Raft Race
8:45 am – Raft Race Paddlers Meeting @ the Nugget Campground
9:05-9:15 am - Raft Race
6:00 pm - Dinner/Dance & “LIVE MUSIC” with Kipchoge & the Ginger Ninjas, Silent Auction, Raft, Downriver & Rodeo Awards
The American River Festival, Oregon River Games and the Wenatchee River Festival are proud to announce a partnership creating the 1st Annual West Coast Rafting Championship Series. There will also be a West Coast Rafting Championships hosted annually by these events on a 3-year rotation.
The 2006 event dates are as follows:
American River Festival (California) April 21st – 23rd
Oregon River Games (Oregon) May 5th - 7th
Wenatchee River Festival (Washington) June 9th – 11
Thanks to American River Festival organizers for this post!
April 5, 2006
Klamath River News
Info from the Karuk Mountain Dance Council
The Klamath River Karuk is asking all rafting companies on the Klamath River to respect the ceremonial dances
and religious events on the river this summer. Here is an open letter from the tribal council to the Klamath River rafting companies:
"We have appreciated the relationship we have developed with the Klamath River rafting community regarding the Karuk Jump (Mountain) Dance. This annual Karuk Tribal ceremony is centered at the village of Ameekyaaraam, which is near Ike’s Falls on the Klamath River. As the Karuk Jump (Mountain) Dance Council, we continue to speak for this one dance and this dance only.
We are alerting you to the dates of the Karuk Mountain (Jump) Dance as soon as we are able. We hope that your company will find these dates useful as you develop your rafting schedules.
During the period of July 24, 2006 through August 16, 2006, we ask that a “quiet zone” from the Salmon River Bridge at Somes Bar to below Ike’s Falls be observed. We also ask that during this time, there be no takeouts or put-ins at the dance grounds under the Klamath River Bridge on Ishi Pishi Road at the mouth of the Salmon River. We realize that there is a need to “take-out” before the long stretch on the Klamath River to Orleans from Ike’s Falls. Take-outs on the east side of the river, below Ike’s Falls is an option, but please observe the “quiet zone”.
We appreciate your efforts to help us make this religious ceremony comfortable for the Indian families who participate. Please share this information with other rafting companies and others who would find this information helpful. We would like to expand our mailing list, so please encourage those you share this with to contact us so that we can add them to our list.
Thank you so much for your help and cooperation. If you have any questions, please write to David and Jan Tripp at PO Box 325, Orleans CA 95556.
Sincerely, The Karuk Mountain Dance Council
March 21, 2006
March 8, 2006 (see below... scroll, scroll)
December 6, 2005 (see below... scroll, scroll)
September 28, 2005 (see below... scroll, scroll)
EXPEDITION: "Chasing 50"
DESCRIPTION: Exploratory River Expedition in Brazil
Time: November 30, 2005 through April 1, 2006
Goal: 50 Rivers Class 4 to Class 5 First Descents
Cinematographer/Expeditionist: Team Leader, Ryan McPherson
Guides/Kayaks for: W.E.T. River Trips, a California whitewater rafting company
Latest post from Ryan:
Well I have about 8 days left, and I think I´ve had my Brazil fix for the year.
We had some logistical problems in the beginning, (no rain for 15 days straight), and definitely lead us to a slow start. You´ve got to have goals or you have got no where to start. We ended up with 16 - 1st descents, and I feel like we could have done better. It's really tough trying to get a good group of guys to stick around for more than a month. Everyone is SO busy these days! I think the guys that came here for the 1st time really had their eyes opened for the future of Brazil. They talked about possibly staying with the expedition next year for 3 or 4 months. If this happens, we´ll hit 50 for sure. ... it's time to regroup, I´m going to start on the film when I get back... I appreciate everything you (W.E.T.) did for me, It's great to see someone that believes in me...
So for this year, ... I enjoy working with W.E.T. ... I´ll probably be free after the middle of April or so and in Coloma for the rest of the summer. Look forward to another good season, Talk to you soon, Ryan Mac
Ryan is part of the CaliProduct Team. Read about their escapades!
March 15, 2006
American River Conservancy News
Conservation Update on the South Fork American River
ARC is moving forward on the acquisition of five parcels (628 acres) on the South Fork American River
that will provide important trail linkages between State Park, County Park and BLM public land units. One key component of this project is a River Parkways program grant that was submitted to the State Resources Agency in mid-October 2005. The Conservancy’s grant was found to be complete and is now under consideration by a technical review team. We hope to hear in March.
We are negotiating more acquisitions in our other four conservation initiative areas. The American River Conservancy is working to acquire 400 acres within the Wild and Scenic section of the North Fork American River and additional forested and river front lands at the headwaters of both the North and Middle Forks American River. We are working with a team of nine public agencies to acquire additional rare plant habitat within the Pine Hill Ecological Preserve. Another river front conservation program includes the acquisition of fisheries and riparian habitat along the North Fork Cosumnes River. Lastly, the Conservancy has submitted three additional grant proposals to acquire an additional 60 acres of land fronting an upper reach of Weber Creek and then develop additional ponds on this property providing critical reproductive habitat for the federally-listed California red-legged frog.
We should note that federal and state funding for conservation projects has dwindled to a mere trickle in relation to more robust public funding provided over the past decade. Nevertheless, we continue to submit extremely competitive grant proposals for the smaller grant programs that still exist and remain optimistic at its chances of advancing (and completing) the above referenced conservation initiatives."
Thanks to ARC for this update. Join ARC & receive regular email updates on their programs.
March 12, 2006
California's Friends of the River Update:
Environmental News about the Central Valley of California:
Proposed Water Bond for the Central Valley
Urge Legislators to Fund Water Conservation Instead!
Governor Schwarzenegger has proposed legislation that seeks voter approval of a $222 billion bond on the June ballot to fund the state's infrastructure needs. His proposal would include funding to complete studies and begin construction of new river-destroying dams on the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers.
Meanwhile, the Legislature's Republican Caucus is insisting both that the bond package include construction money for new dams and that the state's environmental laws be suspended or weakened to fast-track dam construction and levee improvements. Making matter worse, the bond package proposes to fund major construction projects in the Central Valley's flood control levee system, without necessarily ensuring that improvements are completed in a way that protects and restores rivers.
This rush to build dams makes no financial or practical sense. Investing in water conservation will save taxpayers billions of dollars relative to building new dams and will result in far greater water increases in water storage.
Letters to your Legislators are needed today to urge them to insist on an infrastructure bond that funds water conservation and reclamation programs and eliminates funding for new river-destroying dams. Your letter should also emphasize the need to protect and restore rivers as part of any funding for flood levee improvements.
To read more about this proposal, please click here: Friends of the River.
March 9, 2006
The National River Cleanup Week
Knoxville, TN - National River Cleanup Week® 2006 has kicked off its fifteenth annual national river stewardship event with its strongest-ever lineup of sponsors and partnerships.
Presenting Sponsor Green Mountain Coffee Roasters will undertake a company-wide river cleanup initiative May 13-21, 2006.
They are joined by Perception, Thule, Wilderness Systems, and other corporate sponsors whose cash and in-kind support "will catalyze more cleanup participation," notes David Brown, Chairman. "We'll be able to support organizers and their efforts at the highest level in recent history, thanks to this year's corporate commitment."
Additional sponsors are America Outdoors, which will donate the operational backbone for National River Cleanup Week 2006; The Shimoda Group for sponsorship and promotional coordination; the Bureau of Land Management and USDA Forest Service.
This year the American Canoe Association (ACA), American Whitewater (AW), River Network and Northern Forest Canoe Trails have developed innovative efforts to reach out to the river/paddling communities. Specifically, ACA is offering paddling clubs and other affiliate organization discounts on liability insurance coverage for registered participants; AW is challenging its members to conduct cleanups on rivers that AW has protected or restored.
The winners of the Where Does the Trash Come From? student essay competition and National River Cleanup Week 2006 Photo and Publicity Contests for organizers will receive prizes provided by sponsors. Each organizer who signs up by March 31 will receive a Green Mountain Coffee Roasters mug and package of coffee. Those organizers are then eligible to win a Keurig Single Cup Brewer and a month's supply of K-Cups from Green Mountain Coffee Roasters.
The National River Cleanup Week mission is to raise public awareness of the magnitude of trash accumulating in our nation's waterways and to develop a constituency for clean waterways. Since 1992, over a half million National River Cleanup Week volunteers have collected trash from over 95,218 miles during 4,623 cleanups.
For more information on National River Cleanup Week 2006 or the Where Does the Trash Come From? Visit www.nationalrivercleanup.com or contact info@nationalrivercleanup.com
March 8, 2006
December 6, 2005 Update
September 28, 2005 Update:
EXPEDITION: "Chasing 50"
DESCRIPTION: Exploratory River Expedition in Brazil
Time: November 30, 2005 through April 1, 2006
Goal: 50 Rivers Class 4 to Class 5 First Descents
Cinematographer/Expeditionist: Team Leader, Ryan McPherson
Guides/Kayaks for: W.E.T. River Trips, a California whitewater rafting company
Ben from BZPhotos did the photography. Keep in mind that first descents are sketchy for novices. In other words, don't attempt unless you are truely an expert Class VI kayaker! The Camp Bela River is located in the ITATIAIA NATIONAL PARK in Brazil. This is Ryan's 4th Season on the beautiful rivers and creeks of this National Park. We can't wait for all the river stories that he will share. He's due to be back soon for kayak support on the North Fork American River here in California.
"CHASING 50" 2006
Ryan Mac has negotiated rivers in a raft or kayak since Spring of 2001 with a total of 3 River Seasons in Costa Rica, 2 Seasons in Brazil, and 5 rafting and kayaking seasons in Coloma. Ryan has been a safety kayaker for W.E.T. River Trips for the past 3-4 years and has also filled in from time to time as a river guide. This past 2005 Rafting Season, Ryan officially joined our guiding crew as a member of the American River and Cal Salmon river trips. He focused mainly during this unprecedented high water season as a safety kayaker on the North Fork American River and also on all the high water on the South Fork and Middle Fork American. A member of the infamous, Cali Team that includes kayakers, Charlie Center, Ben Wartburg, Merlin Hanauer, Erik Conklin, Paul Gamache, Rush Sturges & Robbe Hogge, Ryan Mac, the Brazilian correspondent, brings a touch of excitement to even the most beginner river runs for our rafting guests. (Update: Ryan arrived in Brazil safe & sound. Merry Christmas! Read the CaliProduct forum for more updates on this expedition.)
"I've done a range of rafting and advanced rafting trips in 3 different countries, to beginner and intermediate kayak instructing and freestyle kayaking rodeo clinics. My favorite Rivers in California include: Upper Middle Fork Kings, Fantasy Falls, South Silver, Shirtail Creek of North Fork American, Golden Gate, Fordyce Creek, Highland Creek 1st Descent, Dutch Creek 1st Descent, and Triumph Gorge on the Lower South Branch of the Feather 1st Descent... favorite Rivers in Costa Rica include: Upper Pacuare, Peralta on Reventazon, Upper Toro, Upper Pejibaye Toas, Poso Azul and Succio River... favorite Rivers in Brazil Include: Rio Jaquari, Rio Paraibuna, Rio Itajai Acu, Rio Cubatao and 1st Descents on Riberao Ponte Preta, Rio Coura, Rio Colina, Rio Escorrega, Riberao Dos Irmao, Rio Das Furnas, Rio Conquista, Riberao Pamital, Rio Verde, Rio Auiruoca, Rio das Cachoeiras, Rio Sao Joao, and Rio Das Antas."
Brazil is home to an amazing percentage of the world's fresh water, and not to mention, an incredible potential for exploration. Many challenges await those interested in exploring Brazil's complex ecosystems. Road access, language barrier, and lack of resources (information, equipment, emergency services), are just a few of the problems and reasons why Brazilâ??s rivers have remained virtually untouched and untapped. Together, within the expedition team, and with help of current and potential sponsors, "Chasing 50" will be prepared to deal with any challenges that might arise during their venture. Proper gear, good logistics, and a great support team are all crucial in the success and safety of this team. With your financial support "Chasing 50" will be one step closer to achieving their goals; in search for the unknown.
Ryan says, "Our initial plan involves a grueling 3 month journey throughout some of Brazil's untapped, virgin rivers. The team will be documenting the entire trip with professional quality video cameras and digital photos, with high hopes in producing several programs in both the U.S. and Brazil. Our team will attempt a unique journey through 7 states, visiting over 20 Brazilian National Parks in 15 different mountain ranges, in an effort to surpass 50 River 1st Descents (class IV-V) in 3 months; a mark probably few have ever accomplished. This will take a combined effort with both athletes and sponsors involved."
Ryan would like to thank the following sponsors: Sierra Outdoor Center in Auburn for approximately $1500 worth of gear, W.E.T. River Trips for financial support for the team members, Liquid Logic for boats & kayaks, McPherson Crane and Rigging for High Definition 3CCD Video Camera ($4000) which will be filming the full length Kayaking Movie, ESPN Brazil is sponsoring transportation ($5000), and a small company out of Bertioga, Sao Paulo is sponsoring Hotels and the Ultralight airplane.
Ryan will be returning in the first of April to begin editing on the film. During this time, he will be producing a mini demo video of each sponsor 's company involved. This will turn out like a commercial for the Video, which also gives the sponsors a little exposure.
For all you corporate wannabe sponsors, please send your financial sponsorships or equipment sponsors to Ryan McPherson, 27 Esperson Court, Rio Vista, CA 94571 and make all checks out to "Chasing 50" and Ryan McPherson. Good luck "Chasing 50" team members! May the river gods be with you!
For more information on our guide staff, please read about the rafting guides or check out our new Rafting Interviews!
W.E.T. River Trips since 1978... go to our domain at RAFTWET.com and read our latest Rafting Blogs.
For more Rafting News, click here for the 2005 ARCHIVES
W.E.T. River Trips = RAFTWET.com
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