SIW NEWS BULLETIN

"STICKS IN THE WATER" PADDLERS

June 1, 2010

GOOD NEWS, BAD NEWS:

While it is difficult to find much good news in the Gulf of Mexico these days, life generally gives us a mixture of good and bad news.  Overall, we hope that the good outweighs the bad, or we can enjoy the good and learn from the bad, or increase the good by reducing the bad, or at least emphasize the good and not dwell on the bad.  In other words, sometimes the most important thing is how we deal with the good or bad news.

Good news was that everything was set for the May “Ready, Set, Paddle” event, including a tour, grilled hot dogs, and a great location; bad news was that the weather was very cold and windy, only 5 people attended, and the consensus was to not launch boats.

Good news is that the May 27 Full Moon Paddle drew 12 paddlers who enjoyed nearly-perfect weather and sky conditions; bad news is that no one has stepped forward to initiate any additional after-work paddle events for this summer.

Good news is that Bill and Greg’s June 6 Paddle “In Search of the White Pelicans” is still a go; bad news is that the free catered lunch had to be canceled due to lack of advance interest.

Good news is that lake and river levels are great for paddling events; bad news is that no SIW members have volunteered to initiate any paddling events after June 6.

Good news is that disabled veterans will have an opportunity to taste our paddling sport in Riverside on September 8; bad news is that SIW members have thus far not expressed much willingness to support or participate in the event.  Please email sticksinthewater@yahoo.com or greggpeggystark@yahoo.com.

Good news is that Central Iowa Paddlers & other groups would like to organize joint events with SIW; bad news is that we don’t have a similar organization structure to carry the ball (paddle?).  Under consideration are a Sep 4-6 Labor Day weekend Maquoketa River Float & a Sep 11 Middle Raccoon River Float.  Anyone interested in coordinating hospitality in our “neighborhood” or coordinating a contingent visiting their neighborhood?

I’m hoping to report the conversion of some of the above “bad news” into “good news” in upcoming emails.

SIW members can help extend the eyes and ears of the Iowa DNR, helping to protect and improve our paddling environment.  Report hazardous material spills or fish kills to the “Spills & Kills” Hotline at   1-515-281-8694  1-515-281-8694   1-515-281-8694  1-515-281-8694 .  Per the Iowa DNR, “If in doubt. . . report it!”

FYI, the “Eagle Cam” continues to provide a fascinating view of the three young eaglets, which should be ready to test their wings in mid-June.  Link at http://www.luther.edu/eaglecam/stream/.

The “Anatomy of Iowa Floods: Preparing for the Future” seminar is traveling the state, helping people learn how to better prepare for future floods.  The seminar is free, runs 4:00—6:00 pm, requires no registration, & will be at the Kirkwood KTOS Center on June 21.  More info at: http://www.rio.iowa.gov/news/upcoming_events.html.

We haven’t received any updates on efforts to create a playboat area on the river in Elkader, but Randy Lyons will be providing regular updates on efforts currently underway to create an improved North Fork Maquoketa River access in Cascade.  See his letter later in this issue of the SIW News Bulletin.

I'm sorry to report that Joe DeLory, one of our earliest SIW members and an ardent supporter of paddling and biking in our area, is relocating to Minnesota.  Many thanks to you, Joe, for your support of SIW and our sport, & best wishes for your new life in Minnesota.  You have an open invitation to join us for a paddle whenever you’re back this way.

We’re looking forward to paddling & visiting with many of you as we search for the white pelicans next Sunday!

--Gregg

IN THIS ISSUE:

= “In Search of the White Pelicans” paddling event Sunday, June 6.

= Updates & Deadlines for upcoming area paddling events.

= Report on Cascade access project on North Fork Maquoketa.

= Report on Full Moon Paddle at Pleasant Creek May 27.

= Report on SIW 3^rd Annual “Ready, Set, Paddle” event May 8, Jones County.

= Report on CanoePam’s Annual UIR Trip, April 30—May 2.

= Report on IRR 5^th Annual Conference, April 30—May 2.

= Buy-Sell-Trade welcomes your listings.

= Astronomy: Full Moon Jun 26, Summer Solstice Jun 21.

= SIW 2010 Paddler Planning Calendar; please note several event updates in June/July.

= Links to websites, newsletters, cleanups, more great "paddling stuff."

= Don’t just stand there—“Initiate” something! 

= CanoePam’s guide to joining the Sticksinthewater Yahoo! Group email exchange.

INTERESTED IN A MORE INTERACTIVE SIW EXPERIENCE?

Then please consider joining the Sticksinthewater Yahoo! Email Discussion Group, which facilitates the email exchange of info, paddling invitations, last minute plans, etc. between participating members. To join in the fun, just follow the steps in Canoe Pam’s guide to joining the group, always included at the end of each SIW News Bulletin.

PADDLE “IN SEARCH OF THE WHITE PELICANS”:

What: Approx 3.5 hour paddle upstream from Coralville Lake into Iowa River, then return, no shuttle.

When: Sunday, June 6, 2010; approx 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM.

Where: 12:30 PM  Meet-up at Curtis Road Access, Coralville Lake/Reservoir (see map link below).

Optional: 11:00 AM Breakfast at Happy Chef on 33^rd Ave in Cedar Rapids.

Who: Initiated by Bill Schoon & Greg Ellyson.

Details:

= From the Curtis Bridge/Curtis Road access, we will be paddling upstream from the Coralville Reservoir into the Iowa River, then returning to the access; no shuttle is planned.

= The paddle is expected to take approx. 3.5 hours.

= No formal lunch break is planned, but paddlers are encouraged to bring their own snacks.

= The after-outing catered meal has been canceled, due to lack of advance interest.  Participants may wish to gather at a restaurant following the event.

= Your checklist should include PFDs, drinking water, sun protection, & clothing appropriate for the weather.

Registration:  No fee, no registration required.  If you have questions, please contact Initiator Bill Schoon, 319-364-5161 or 319-350-3866.

Directions: The Curtis Bridge/Curtis Road access can be reached from Hwy 965 about halfway between North Liberty & Swisher, where Hwy 965 is East of I 380.  See Map:  http://www.mvr.usace.army.mil/Coralville/CoralvilleAreaMapFeb05r.pdf

Safe Paddling:  The Sticks In the Water paddling group embraces the “Common Adventure” philosophy, under which individual paddlers recognize that paddlesports & other outdoor activities inherently include some risk of injury or death, and assume responsibility for the safety of themselves & the members of their party.  The “initiators” of SIW events are not necessarily outfitters, instructors, or paddling experts.  That said, we strongly encourage all paddlers to wear PFD’s, avoid on-water alcohol, & utilize proper equipment, training, & procedures in pursuit of a safe & enjoyable paddling experience.

UPDATES & DEADLINES FOR AREA PADDLING EVENTS:

June 12-16; 23rd Annual Disorganized Cedar River Canoe Float, Otranto, MN to Janesville, IA, coordination of vehicle transport, campsite fees and meals by individuals, some SIW members participate annually. Route & schedule is now available; any registration deadlines are unknown.   Jlhughes@myclearwave.net. 

June 19; Mississippi Bluffs Float, South Lake Park, Sabula, IA, Clinton CCD;  http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Clinton.aspx

June 26; Great Iowa River Canoe Race, Iowa City, Sturgis Ferry Park to Hills Access, co-sponsors Iowa Valley RC&D, Fin & Feather.  Great variety of divisions for canoes, kayaks, solo, tandem, men, women, youth, etc.  Registration is $25 by June 5 or $35 thereafter.  Free T-shirt if you register by June 19.  info@ivrcd.org.  

July 10-17; DNR Project AWARE, annual week-long cleanup, annual vacation for some SIW members.  East & West Nishnabotna Rivers in western Iowa are the targets for 2010.  Info, schedules, & registration forms are now available.  www.iowaprojectaware.com.

July 31-Aug 7, 2010; Great River Rumble, Dubuque to Muscatine, weeklong paddle/camp on the Mississippi River, coordinated meals, campsites, transportation of gear, some SIW members participate annually.  Info, schedule, and registration forms now available: http://www.riverrumble.org/.

Aug 21, 2010; “Floatzilla,” & QC Watersports Festival, attempt to set a new world record flotilla of kayaks & canoes, Quad Cities.  Current record is 1104 boats, goal is 2010.  Particularly interesting T-Shirt logo.  Info & registration at: http://www.floatzilla.org/.

Sep 8 Kayaking Event in Conjunction with Labor Day Weekend National Tee Tournament , Riverside, IA.  Golf tournament and kayak paddling event for disabled veterans, organized by the Veterans Hospital of Iowa City.  Fifty vets participated in 2009, organizers will accept up to 200 this year.  Basic paddling instruction will be provided by Ken and Danette Kremer of Seatasea Watersports in Cedar Rapids.  We need volunteer paddler commitments to provide encouragement, safety presence, & possibly some extra PFDs.  Open to both canoes & kayaks.  Email sticksinthewater@yahoo.com or greggpeggystark@yahoo.com.

REPORT ON NEW CASCADE ACCESS TO NORTH FORK MAQUOKETA:

From: Randy Lyons

We would like you to know that Cascade will be building a low footprint access which will safely allow paddlers the opportunity to travel the North Fork Maquoketa River through Jones County. This section of river from Cascade to the Ozark Bbridge is approximately 18 miles long. According to the DNR it is one of three rivers in the state that could be designated as a "Wilderness River".

We have recently received confirmation from the Dubuque Racing Association for a grant request which will cover approximately 40% of our cost. We will submit our permit applications this next week and begin to design our information kiosk to be located at the access.  Our sign will include a "Map of the River"; "Be Safe Out There"- Wear a life jacket, Watch for hazards, Don't boat under the influence, Dress for the weather; "STAY LEGAL" - Respect private property, Littering is a crime, The only public land for primitive camping is Searryl's Cave State Preserve; "RESOURCES" - Estimate flow levels by checking North Fork Maquoketa River gage near Fulton, www.rivergages.com, waterdata.usgs.gov, a reading of 400cfs usually yields pleasant paddling; “FISHING OPPORTUNITIES” - small mouth bass, channel catfish.
 

Do you know of anything else we should include on this information kiosk?  We will begin construction sometime in July or August. With many miles of forested hillsides, we hope to have it completed so paddlers can experience the beautiful leaves this fall.
Sincerely,
Randy Lyons

REPORT ON FULL MOON PADDLE AT PLEASANT CREEK MAY 27:

From Gregg Stark:

A dozen paddlers launched from the Windsurfing/Canoe Beach for an evening of paddling and socializing.  After a leisurely tour of the lake, paddlers paused at the South end of the lake as the sun settled down and the shadows of trees reached farther and farther across the water.  Due to the hills and trees to the East, the visible moonrise was a bit later than advertised, but no less dramatic than expected.  Pleasant companions, a warm evening, light breeze, clear skies—can’t ask for much more to enjoy a full moon paddle. 

REPORT ON 3rd ANNUAL SIW “READY, SET, PADDLE” EVENT MAY 8:

From Gregg Stark:

Sorry to report, but the best part of this year’s “Ready, Set, Paddle” event was probably the tour of the new accesses at Mon Maq Dam and Pictured Rocks, guided by Jones County Conservation Director Larry Gullett.  Or maybe it was watching the video of North Carolina spring paddling, narrated by Bill Schoon, as we sat inside the heated Jones County Nature Center.  At any rate, it wasn’t the pleasant weather, the big turnout, the paddling experience, or the grilled hot dogs, none of which made an appearance.  Maybe next year?  At any rate, special thanks to Larry Gullett, Joe DeLory, and Tom Sabotta for their efforts in preparing for this event.

REPORT ON CANOEPAM’S ANNUAL UIR TRIP, APRIL 30-MAY 2:

From Pam Stalnaker:

Kevin and I arrived at Hruska’s campground on Friday afternoon about 1:00 in the pouring rain.  Luckily the rain stopped in less than an hour, and we had great weather the rest of the weekend!  The rain made the river a bit muddy but also brought the water level up enough to be very enjoyable. 

We ended up with 21 people, a good number for sitting around the fire and sharing stories.  Some were from the Canoe Country Bulletin Board and others from the Sticks in the Water paddling group.  The campground was in very good shape, and we were the only group there on Friday.  Saturday night had one other paddler enjoying the lovely weather.    I’ll use the screen names for the participants where appropriate: Firepit and his family; TwistTieCollector; Nick and his son Quentin; Christian and his son Thomas; CanoePam and WhenCanoesFly (aka Kevin); Troutbreath, his wife, and three lovely daughters; Casprr, his sister Drox, and dog Honeybear; Bobcat; and BlazingPaddles (with her adorable T@B camper!).  A few other folks had said they’d come, but we always have a few no-shows due to weather or other conflicts.

It was definitely a good weekend for animals. 

I saw a mating pair of eagles hanging around the campground plus some other eagles (both mature and immature) along the river, an owl, a mammal I’m 90% sure was an otter (just a quick glance), turtles that were still pretty lethargic, lots of Canada geese and ducks (including a pair of wood ducks), and a green heron flying around the campground.  Sadly, we also saw a dead beaver floating in the river.  I found a new beaver dam blocking the output from one of the springs; pretty cool!

Since Firepit and TwistTieCollector were renting boats, Hruska let us use one of his 8 spot trailers which definitely simplified the shuttling.  We were on the water by 9:30 and rather naturally broke into 3 groups of paddlers with different interests and speeds.  We had three children on the Kendallville to Bluffton trip: Thomas, age 6; Elizabeth, age 9; and Quentin, age 14.  Thomas was a duffer, but the other two paddled.  Don’t let anyone tell you children don’t like canoe trips!  Elizabeth’s younger sisters (ages 4 and 6) got to do a short trip from the Chimney Rock access to the campground.  We stopped a few times on handy gravel bars to snack or stretch our legs, but we still got to the campground by 3:30.  As usual, the stop at the “fossil beach” was the most popular.  This is a specific gravel bar near the half-way spot where we have always found lots of fossils in the fractured limestone. 

The new Bluffton gauge showed 5.5’ and 400 cfs flow, probably equivalent to about 4.5 on the old gauge.  This is a nice moving water level; no real challenges but fast enough to give a good ride.    We had a good mix of boats – tandem canoes, solo canoes, rec kayaks, and even Christian’s whitewater kayak.   It makes it even more fun to see how the different boats handle the water.

Dinner on Saturday night was fun and filling.  It has become a tradition to do a potluck, and there were all types of food – main dishes, desserts, breads, and side dishes.  Nothing like a good day of paddling to make sure the dishes were polished off!  We also had s’mores around the fire.  Sunday morning I made my traditional monkey bread in the Dutch oven, and we sat around an early morning fire from the wood kindly supplied by a local paddler, Steve Arnost (SEA on PaddlingIowa and CCBB).  Steve has provided wood the last two years even though he hasn’t paddled with us; pretty good guy!  We all have to be very careful in transferring wood these days, due to the emerald ash borer being discovered nearby.

There was a Central Iowa Paddlers group at the Iowa Heritage Center cabin close to the campground.  A few stopped by and said “hi”.  Nick, Christian, and their boys paddled on Sunday too, as did TroutBreath and his wife though on different sections.  Kevin didn’t take too many pictures, but the ones we have can be seen at my Photobucket account at http://s73.photobucket.com/albums/i216/CanoePam/Upper%20Iowa%20River%20May%202010/.   I’m afraid there are more of the campground and the water in front of it than the rest of the river, but you can still get an idea.

I do this trip every year the weekend before Mother’s Day.  We are taking chances with the weather, but it keeps the traffic down.  Put it on your calendar if you want to come with us next year!

REPORT ON IRR 5^TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE, APRIL 30-MAY 2:

From Gregg Stark:

Titled “Beyond the River Banks, Celebrating Iowa’s Cedar Valley,” the 2010 Iowa Rivers Revival Annual Conference drew over 50 participants & broke the mold from traditional events where attendees simply sit and listen to a few speakers. 

Author Connie Mutel (editor of “A Watershed Year: Anatomy of the Iowa Floods of 2008”) opened the Saturday session with a review of research and new understandings of the Cedar River Flood of 2008, a subject with which we all have some familiarity, but not much real understanding of causes and effects.  A panel of Rebecca Kauten, Ronald Gaines, Matt Fisher, & Don Palmer provided perspectives on river cleanups, water quality, local government, & citizen action before, during, and following the flood.  Participants were then involved in a give-and-take Question & Answer session with the above individuals which was particularly enlightening.  Also on the morning schedule was Lt. General Ron Dardis, Executive Director for the Rebuild Iowa Office, who provided insight into the complexity of coordinating a statewide response, state funding, and federal funding & assistance programs. 

After lunch, participants boarded a bus for a tour of a proposed whitewater play area at Gateway Park (with demo by Prairie Rapids Paddlers), & several exemplary Cedar Falls water management projects, demonstrating infiltration practices for storm water run-off, habitat enhancement & sediment delivery reduction, & flood mitigation.  A showing of the feature film “Troubled Water” completed the structured portion of the day. 

Highlights of Saturday evening included presentation of the “River Town of the Year” award to Cedar Falls, the annual banquet dinner, and a FUNdraising live auction.  On Sunday, participants could opt to paddle, bike, or walk portions of the Cedar Valley Trail, lunch included.  In summary, the content was very informative, the presenters very entertaining, and the networking very valuable. 

I am looking forward to next year’s IRR Conference, and hope that more SIW members will consider getting involved with the Iowa Rivers Revival effort.

FIND FAMILY FUN IN AREA COUNTY CONSERVATION NEWSLETTERS:

County Conservation Department newsletters are gold mines of outdoor activities for all ages. You can access conservation department information & websites for all 99 Iowa counties at www.mycountyparks.com, but here are a few highlights from area CCD newsletters:

“The Conservation Connection,” Johnson County; Getting away from it all on a day float down part of the Iowa River Water Trail from Hills Access to River Junction Access.  http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Johnson/News/172/Spring-2010-Conservation-Connection-Newsletter.aspx.  

“Twin Rivers Review,” Jones County; Progress on the Maquoketa River Water Trail, new ramps at Pictured Rocks, Mon Maq, and Stone City, Lower Wapsi Cleanup scheduled Aug 13-15.  http://jonescountyiowa.org/Documents/Spring%202010.pdf.

“The Oak Hickory News,” Linn County; Excellent article in response to the Ken Burns’ series “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea?”, kayaks & canoes available for rent at Pinicon Ridge as early as May 22, astronomy events at Easter Iowa Observatory & Learning Center, Wapsi Canoe/Kayak trip July 9.  http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Linn/Park/News/92/CURRENT-NEWSLETTER-AVAILABLE.aspx.

“Up & Down the River,” Jackson County; Articles on water quality, Maq River Cleanup & Canoe Trip June 13.  http://www.jacksonccb.com/Newsletter.html.

Even CCDs without a newsletter often provide a calendar of events.  Use this convenient, centralized website to access conservation department information & websites for all 99 Iowa counties:  http://www.mycountyparks.com/.

OPPORTUNITIES TO BUY, SELL, OR TRADE PADDLING GEAR:

The paddling season is definitely underway, so let us know if we can help you buy or sell a boat or paddling equipment.  Items move quickly, but here are a few that we think are still available.

Want to Buy: Used Dagger RPM “Max” kayak, email dancyn@prodigy.net.

For Sale: New Snapdragon Sea Trek Breathable spray skirt, slate color, standard 50” tunnel, XL deck opening; outgrown by owner before it could be used (“My gain is your gain.”), $75, email rhow@dwx.com.

For Sale: 2006 Wenonah Prism solo canoe, Kevlar Flex-core, Alaskan Ivory gelcoat, black aluminum trim foot brace, tugeyes, grab loops, wood web seat with backrest, spare Kevlar bucket seat, very gently used, $1400, email rhow@dwx.com.

For Sale: Wenonah Adirondack Ultra Light Kevlar canoe, 16’, 37 lb., factory foot brace,  $1350,

http://www.paddling.net/Classifieds/forSale.html?category=canoesell&state=IA

Some additional boats listed in April are apparently still available.

If you’re looking to buy, sell, or trade, here are some websites to check:

http://cedarrapids.craigslist.org/

http://www.paddlingiowa..com/phpBB/viewforum.php?f=5

http://www.paddling.net/Classifieds/forSale.html   

http://www.seatasea.com/ClearanceBoats.htm

ASTRONOMY FOR PADDLERS:

Expect a New Moon on June 12 and a Full Moon on June 26 (sunset 8:46, moonrise 9:10).

The Summer Solstice occurs on June 21 in the northern hemisphere at 11:28 UT. The Sun is at its highest point in the sky and it will be the longest day of the year. This is also the first day of summer.  Source: http://www.seasky.org/astronomy/astronomy_calendar_2010.html

SIW 2010 PADDLER PLANNING CALENDAR:

January 23; Iowa Rivers Revival Congress, Ames, http://www.iowarivers.org/Home/tabid/36/Default.aspx.

January 30; Indian Creek Nature Center 3^rd Annual Paddle Fest" featuring John Campbell & Paul Sleeper, cosponsored by Seatasea & SIW;  www.indiancreeknaturecenter.org/. 

February 12-14; Iowa Paddling Expo at CanoeSport Outfitters Indianola, IA, exhibits, presentations; http://www.canoesportoutfitters.com/index.htm.

February 13; Nick’s Annual Pre-Paddling Expo Breakfast at Prairie Meadows, watch for info on http://www...paddlingiowa.com/.

February 21; SIW Member Meeting; 2:00-4:00 pm, Wickiup Outdoor Learning Center near Toddville, member presentations, season planning, social.

March tbd; SIW Member Meeting?,  purpose, date, location tbd.

March 12-14; Canoecopia at Madison, WI, world’s largest paddling show; http://www.rutabaga.com/canoecopia/page.asp?pgid=1001.

March 14; Daylight Savings Returns.

March 20; Vernal Equinox, First Day of Spring.

March 27; Paddle Smart Seminar, Four Rivers Sail & Power Squadron, 1:00-2:30 plus discussion, Kirkwood Transportation Center Rm 102, 364-5161 or bschoon5@msn.com.

April; SIW "Indoor Paddling," event.  Canceled.

April 10; CanoeSport Outfitters Spring Demo, Lake Ahquabi, Indianola, IA; http://www.canoesportoutfitters.com/index.htm.

April 17; Bends & Beaches Water Trail Dedication and Wapsi River Float, Walnut Grove Park, Toronto, IA, Clinton CCD;  http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Clinton.aspx

April 17-24; Prairie States Canoeists 6^th Annual Week of NE Iowa Rivers, day trips on a variety of rivers, dependent on river levels, intermediate level paddling--not “float trips”; Al Donaldson alandonaldson@cfu.net .

April 22; Earth Day.

April 30—May 2; CanoePam’s Annual UIR Trip, Hruska’s Campground, Bluffton , IA ; optional overnight camping Fri/Sat, potluck Sat; Pam Stalnaker canoepam@yahoo.com.  

April 30--May 2; Iowa Rivers Revival Annual Conference, Cedar Falls; http://www.iowarivers.org/Home/tabid/36/Default.aspx.

May 3; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Robins Lake, CR; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.  

May 8; SIW "Ready, Set, Paddle" event, 11:00am-3:00pm, Central Park, Jones County. Spring exercise for boats and paddlers, informal test paddle swaps for the willing, potluck lunch at Noon; Initiator Gregg Stark.  Optional tour of new Mon Maq & Pictured Rocks facilities starts at 9:00am at Mon Maq.

May 9; Mothers Day.

May 15; Rock Creek Water Trail Float, Rock Creek Park , Camanche , IA , Clinton CCD;  http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Clinton.aspx

May 17; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Robins Lake, CR; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

May 29—June 5; Tacitus Hussey Memorial Paddle Trip, Upper Iowa River, 125 miles, camping or “motelling” options, first 2 days intermediate level, balance advanced beginner; Al Donaldson alandonaldson@cfu.net .

May 31; Monday, Observe Memorial Day.

June-July-August; SIW Wednesday Evening Paddles?  tbd

June 6; “In Search of the White Pelicans” Paddle, Coralville Reservoir & into the Iowa River ; Initiators Bill Schoon & Greg Ellyson.

June 7; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Pleasant Creek SP, Palo; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm. 

June 12-16; 23rd Annual Disorganized Cedar River Canoe Float, Otranto , MN to Janesville , IA , coordination of vehicle transport, campsite fees and meals by individuals, some SIW members participate annually. Jlhughes@myclearwave.net.

June 14; Flag Day.

June 18-19; 1^st Annual Iowa Trails Summit , Cedar Falls/Waterloo, presentations re multi-use & shared trails, diversity & accessibility, development & funding, http://www,iowadnr.gov/trails/index.html .

June 19; Mississippi Bluffs Float, South Lake Park, Sabula, IA, Clinton CCD;  http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Clinton.aspx

June 20; Father’s Day.

June 21; Summer Solstice, 1^st Day of Summer.

June 21; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Lake McBride , Solon; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

June 26; Great Iowa River Canoe Race, Iowa City, Sturgis Ferry Park to Hills Access, co-sponsors Iowa Valley RC&D, Fin & Feather; info@ivrcd.org.

July 3; Paddlefest Fun Race, Perry to Minburn, IA, river races, parade, food, music, old & new boat displays; http://web.mac.com/mikedelaney1/North_Raccoon/Paddlers_Page.html.

July 4^???;  "Evening Fireworks Paddle?"  Need an Initiator; Joe DeLory will be out of the area.

July 5; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Robins Lake , CR; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

July 9; Linn CCD Wapsi Paddle, 4:00 pm, Pinicon Ridge Park , Central City, shuttle upstream, paddle back down to park, rental canoes & kayaks available.

July 10-17; DNR Project AWARE, annual week-long cleanup, East & West Nishnabotna Rivers;  www.iowaprojectaware.com.

July 10-11; Annual Canoe Van Buren, weekend float/camp from Selma to Farmington on the Des Moines River; http://villagesofvanburen.com/canoe-vb.htm.

July 17, 2010; Paddle & Portage Race, Madison, WI , http://www..badgerstategames.org/node/329.

July 19; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Robins Lake , CR; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

July 24 (revised date); Pool 13 Float, Thomson Causeway (Thomson, IL) to Fulton Marina (Fulton, IL), Clinton CCD; http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Clinton.aspx.

July 31-Aug 7, 2010; Great River Rumble, Dubuque to Muscatine, weeklong paddle/camp on the Mississippi River, coordinated meals, campsites, transportation of gear, some SIW members participate annually; http://www.riverrumble.org/.

August 2; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Pleasant Creek SP, Palo; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

August 12-22; IA State Fair, Volunteers for DNR booth.

August 13-15; Annual Lower Wapsi Cleanup, 23 miles Anamosa to Jungletown, camping at Central Park , http://www.lowerwapsicleanup.org/.

August 16; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Lake McBride , Solon; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

August 21; Isles of the Mississippi float #1, 19^th Ave Boat Ramp (Clinton , IA) to Swan Slough Boat Ramp (Camanche, IA), Clinton CCD; http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Clinton.aspx.

August 21; Floatzilla & QC Watersports Festival, Quad Cities, IA/IL; http://www.floatzilla.org/.

August 30; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Robins Lake , CR; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

September 4-6, Maquoketa River Float; possible joint event with CIP.

September 6; Labor Day.

September 8, Riverside; VA disabled veteran paddle event.

September 11, Middle Raccoon River; possible joint event with CIP.

September 13; Seatasea Watersports Free Demo Paddle, 4:30–7pm, Robins Lake , CR; http://www.seatasea.com/CourseDiscoverPaddling.htm.

September 18; Isles of the Mississippi Float #2, Swan Slough Boat Ramp (Camanche, IA) to Rock Creek Park (Camanche, IA), Clinton CCD; http://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Clinton.aspx.

September 23; Autumnal Equinox, 1^st Day of Autumn.

October date tbd; Annual Jones County Conservation Dept “Fall Colors Float”, route tbd.

November 7; Daylight Savings Ends.

Possible Full Moon Paddles; on or near 2010 full moon dates May 27(Thu), Jun 26(Sat), Jul 26(Mon), Aug 24(Tue), Sep 23(Thu), Oct 23(Sat).

LOTS OF LINKS TO GREAT IOWA PADDLING INFO:

Real Time Levels and Flow Rates for Iowa Rivers , USGS, http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ia/nwis/rt

"Paddling.Net" national paddlers website providing access to boat data, test reports, classified ads, and advice about paddling and paddling activities from around the country: http://www.paddling.net/.

"PaddlingIowa" the mother of all Iowa paddling info, including paddling opportunities, trip reports, classified ads: http://www...paddlingiowa.com/.

"Sticks In the Water" email site at sticksinthewater@yahoo.

"Sticks In the Water" group site at http://groups.yahoo.com.

"Sticks In the Water" topic section on paddlingiowa.com under Community/Forums at at http://www.paddlingiowa.com/phpBB/viewforum.php?f=24&sid=1ce9cee0d339a2a8dcf9a611f23b 7aee.

Central Iowa Paddlers, based in Central Iowa, broad participation http://www.paddleiowa.org/..

Saukenuk Paddlers Canoe and Kayak Club, Quad Cities http://www.rivers-end.org/saukenuk/.

Skunk River Paddlers http://www.skunkriverpaddlers.org/.

Iowa Whitewater Coalition, based in Central Iowa http://www.iowawhitewater.org/.

Iowa Rivers Revival, statewide organization promoting the importance of our rivers, and the many economic, environmental and recreational resources they provide for our state.  To sign up to receive Iowa Rivers Revival’s e-News, contact rlehman@iowarivers.org or for more information about IRR visit www.iowarivers.org.

Iowa DNR home page: http://www.iowadnr.gov/index..html

Iowa DNR publications: http://www.iowadnr..com/pub..html

Iowa DNR, Iowa Water Trails: http://www.iowadnr.gov/riverprograms/index.html

Iowa DNR, Iowa Water Trail Construction Volunteer advisory: email Luke Wright at lukewright60@yahoo.com.

Iowa DNR/ACA "Smart Start for Safe Paddling" brochure http://www.iowadnr.gov/watertrails/files/smart_start.pdf.

Iowa DNR, Fishing Reports: http://www..iowadnr.com/news/currentfish.html

Iowa Ornithologists’ Union , bird info, sightings, etc.:: http://www.iowabirds.org/

Iowa DNR guidelines for display of registration decals and numbers, other legal requirements: http://www.boat-ed.com/ia/ia_specific_images/pdfs/IA_handbook_its_the_law.pdf

IOWATER-sponsored cleanup events across the state: http://www..iowater.net/StreamCleanupEvents.htm.

US Naval Observatory; sunrise, sunset, moonrise, moonset, moon phases, etc. http://aa.usno.navy.mil/. 

Star Date Online; solar system, planets, comets, meteor showers, etc. http://stardate.org/.  

SIW SEEKING "INITIATORS" FOR PADDLING EVENTS:

The SIW Steering Committee is looking for a few paddling event "Initiators" to help share the load of getting SIW associates out on the water more often. Per the Common Adventure philosophy, "Initiators" of these paddling events are not serving as outfitters, instructors, or paddling experts. Their role is to schedule and coordinate an event, including dates, times, put-ins, take-outs, shuttles, basic route information, and provide common sense reminders re planning & equipment. If you have an interest, please contact sticksinthewater@yahoo.com .

EDITOR’S NOTES:

Thanks for the words of encouragement, calendar items, and story ideas; please keep them coming! We apologize in advance for any errors or omissions.

Email your SIW News Bulletin corrections, news items, and story ideas to "Attn: SIW Editor" at sticksinthewater@yahoo.com

If you do not wish to receive future copies of this SIW News Bulletin, please send an email to sticksinthewater@yahoo.com with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line.

All other email address changes, subscription adds, or inquiries about "Sticks In the Water" paddlers should be emailed to sticksinthewater@yahoo.com.

BECOME A SIW MEMBER:

"Sticks In the Water" is a canoe and kayak paddling network, centered around Johnson, Jones, and Linn counties in Eastern Iowa , working to provide area paddlers with expanded opportunities to enjoy more time on the water, in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.  We respect your privacy and will not share your email address with any other organization or company. To become a member of SIW, email your regular name (first & last) and your email address to sticksinthewater@yahoo.com. 

SAFE PADDLING:

The Sticks In the Water paddling group embraces the "Common Adventure" philosophy, under which individual paddlers recognize that paddlesports & other outdoor activities inherently include some risk of injury or death, and assume responsibility for the safety of themselves & the members of their party. The "initiators" of SIW events are not necessarily outfitters, instructors, or paddling experts. That said, we strongly encourage all paddlers to wear PFD’s, avoid on-water alcohol, & utilize proper equipment, training, & procedures in pursuit of a safe & enjoyable paddling experience.

~~~/~~~/~~~

How to Sign Up For The Sticksinthewater Yahoo! Email Discussion Group

By our resident "Groups Guru" CanoePam

.    If you already have a Yahoo! email address, sign in to your Yahoo! mail and go to Step B below.

.    If you do not have a Yahoo! email address, follow the following steps. You don’t need to use this email address for the group, but you need one at least temporarily.

.    Step A: Go to http://yahoo..com. You will see a "Sign up" item near the bottom on the right. Select it and follow the instructions to generate a Yahoo! id and email address. When you have finished filling it out, select the "Create My Account". You will get a "success" screen. Make sure you go to "Edit your marketing preference" and opt-out of the items you have no interest in (probably all of them!).. When you have edited your preferences, select the "Experience Yahoo" button. Don’t want to get email at this Yahoo! address? Don’t worry, you can change it soon... Now go to Step B below.

.    Step B: Go to http://groups.yahoo.com. In the center of the page you’ll see a Search box to "Find a Yahoo! Group". Enter "sticksinthewater" in the search box and press "Return". Select the sticksinthewater group. You should see a "Join this Group" message on the right side of the page... Click on that button. Fill in the form. If you want to use another email address to receive messages from the group, you add it here. Now is the time to decide what your message preferences are, so read the options carefully.. You can change them later if you like too. Make sure you tell us why you’re joining! After you finish filling in the form, select the "Join" button at the bottom.. This will generate an email to the Yahoo! group moderators to approve your application to join. We require these steps so we don’t get lots of spammers. Make sure you set your email spam filters to allow messages from the group; this is particularly important if you have an email account from Microsoft (hotmail or msn) because these domains frequently don’t allow Yahoo! messages without specific action from you.

.    In a day or so you should get a message in your email letting you know you’ve been approved. Follow the instructions to finalize your membership. If a couple of days go by and you don’t see anything, check your spam folder in case your mail server routed our message to that location.

.    Once you are a group member you can send messages to all the other members by sending mail to sticksinthewater@yahoogroups.com. All we ask is that you treat others as you would like to be treated; insults, personal attacks, obscene or foul language, or spamming will get your Sticksinthewater Yahoo! group membership cancelled without any second chances.

.    If you have any questions, send an email to canoepam@yahoo.com. I will reply in a day or so, usually less. Like the rest of the sticksinthewater crew, I’m a volunteer with a "day job" that sometimes gets in the way. Be patient; I will get back to you.