Monday, January 25, 2010

USCG - 2010 Kayaking this year

USCG - 2010 Kayaking this year

Sunday, January 24, 2010

January 2010 - A Winter Paddle on the Shiawassee River

Written by Doug Lanyk -

Great day all. Saturday Jan . 23rd '10 was a spectacular day to go for a paddle.
Jimmy, Kieth, Willi and I left Holly for Fenton just after noon. It was
a challenging start. Jimmy put his canoe near the launch and went back
for another load of gear. When he returned the canoe was down river.
The melting snow was quite slick. Willi was a nice guy and did a quick
recovery from his kayak.

Then I made a mistake involving Kieth (a novice).
We tried a controlled seal launch in my canoe. Oops!
Kieth went for a swim in the ice cold Shiawassee River at Waterworks Park.
He was worried that his sopping wet condition was going to screw up the
plans for the day. The cold water was quite the shock too. He never
imagined doing a polar bear plunge. 5 minutes later we had him in dry
clothes and were launching once again. What a trooper.

We saw quite a few water fowl, and a selection of other birds. The deer
were easily visible against the snow field, and one poor muskrat was
frustrated when he couldn't find his den. We chased him down the river
for 50 yards. The ice shelves were at multiple levels above the river.
I think that was evidence of several ice dams occurring in the past
couple of weeks.

There was 1 tree down forcing a short portage,
otherwise the river was clear. The low water levels did expose a lot of
bottom bumpers to give us many surprise jiggles. YeeHaw. The small
pond half way down the river was surprisingly clear of ice. We all
pitched in to break the ice blocking our way,.Many thanks to Willi and
Jimmy for cutting a path for the big green canoe.

Get out and paddle.Doug.

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Thursday, January 21, 2010

Shiawassee River Heritage Water Trail - Holly Canoeing, Kayaking - Pure Michigan Travel

Shiawassee River Heritage Water Trail
You can launch your canoe or kayak anytime from WaterWorks Park at 690 S. Broad Street in Holly and paddle to Strom Park on East Street in Fenton, seven river miles. This segment of the Shiawassee River is an adventure that takes about two and a half to three hours. The River here is shallow and slow moving but it has many twists and turns, an occasional beaver dam and changing scenery which add challenge and adventure to the paddling trip. The volunteer organization Headwaters Trails has added mile markers, interpretive signage, launch sites and trailhead parking. Restaurants and shopping beckon in the historic communities at each end of the river trail. Future development of this Heritage Water Trail will enable extended trips to the west through Fenton, Linden and Byron in Genesee County and then northward past Walnut Hills Campground and on to Owosso and Chesaning along the way to Saginaw Bay, a total distance of 110 miles. At present there is no livery serving this Pure Michigan adventure. Paddlers are requested to observe the "Leave No Trace" ethic, to share the resource with other river users and to take nothing but Good Memories.
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Shiawassee River Heritage Water Trail - Holly Canoeing, Kayaking - Pure Michigan Travel
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Tuesday, January 19, 2010

McCaslin Lake Road Canoe Kayak Launch

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Click on the map for a full screen detailed view of it all
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Argentine Township / Linden Community  5 Year Parks and Recreation Plan


Shiawassee River Water Trail --- Draft –  January 2010 ---  Gould Engineering, Inc.-

Advocating the use of the Shiawassee River as a recreational water trail is highly recommended.
Development of the water trail through Argentine Township is an expansion of the 10 mile water trail system already developed to the east from the Village of Holly through the City of Fenton and
City of Linden.
By continuing efforts through Argentine Township a total of 30 miles of water trail will be created from the Village of Holly to the Village of Byron in Shiawassee County and extending into Saginaw County. The Argentine Shiawassee River Clean Up Committee is a local volunteer group that has made tremendous strides to remove debris and clear areas for safe navigation of the river. They are considered stewards of the river and are strongly encouraged to continue their efforts of protecting and promoting safe and appropriate use of the water trail.

Currently, the McCaslin Lake Road canoe/kayak launch site provides the only access to
the 10 mile stretch between the City of Linden and the Village of Bryon.
The
establishment of this unimproved launch is strictly the result of heavy use by local
canoeists and kayakers. Fortunately, the township recognized this growing population
and acquired land at this site for future improvements. However, additional land
acquisition may be needed depending on physical restraints of the present site. These
improvements will provide safe access to the water, nearby parking, improved staging
and traffic circulation, signage, benches and trash receptacles, with strong
consideration toward universal design.

The township also owns 10 acres on Oakwood Drive with access to the river and approximately 2 miles west of McCaslin Lake Road. This would provide another launch opportunity midway between the launches at McCaslin Lake Road and the Village of Byron. Important factors for establishing a water trail are the provision of safe and convenient access to a navigable waterway with unobstructed passageways. The water trail between McCaslin Lake Road and the Village of Byron is un-navigable in some locations. Therefore, other trail improvements should include removing litter, clearing log
jams for navigability, installing way finding and educational signs, and providing safe installing way finding and educational signs, and providing safe portage areas where needed.

Should it be necessary, narrow or low underpasses (i.e. small culverts or low bridges) should be replaced with larger openings. However, Bridges or overpasses are costly to reconstruct, therefore, an
alternative is to provide safe portage areas. A durable path should be provided for carrying
watercraft, which should consist of more natural, engineered facilities such as pervious pavers with
openings for vegetation to grow through to help retain the natural river bank appearance, along with providing proper roadside signage forewarning motor vehicle traffic of potential portage crossings. All construction along the river, within the floodplain and/or wetlands, is subject to approval by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (MDNRE).

A detailed “Shiawassee River Water Trail Plan” would help officially designate and
delineate a Shiawassee River Heritage Water Trail route, and identify trail-related
facilities that should be constructed and improvements that should be implemented to
establish a safe and navigable trail corridor for both recreational and educational
pursuits in an ecologically sensitive manner. The designation of an official water trail may
further instill a sense of trail stewardship among canoeists/kayakers to respect the quality
of the water and become good caretakers of the river.

Specific trail improvements and support facilities that should be identified on the plan may
include providing parking facilities, restrooms, handicapped access, and picnicking areas; removing litter and fallen trees for navigability; installing way finding and educational signs; and improving underpasses or providing safe providing safe portaging areas with durable paths and crossing signs.

http://argentinetownship.com/section%207-Action%20Program.pdf

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Monday, January 18, 2010

Thursday, January 14, 2010

The new DNRE - Department of Natural Resources and Environment

Perhaps the new director of Natural Resources and Environment
will look kindly upon the Shiawassee River ?

Rebecca Humphries

- began her Department of Natural Resources career in 1978 .
- resource specialist in the Land and Water Management Division,
- a habitat biologist at the Shiawassee River State Game Area,
- a district wildlife biologist in Grand Rapids,
-  Wildlife Division chief.

Rebecca Humphries
Director of the new Department of Natural Resources and Environment
(DNRE), effective January 17, 2010. 

The new department’s mission implements an ecosystem-based strategy
for resource management, effectively using natural resources in a sustainable manner,
and providing for continuous improvement in Michigan’s air, water and soils
while facilitating and encouraging economic growth.

http://www.michigan.gov/dnr

Trails.Com - Local kayaking info

Trails.Com - Local kayaking info

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Local kayaking classes








Winter/Spring 2010 Class Schedule

Expanding Horizons Kayaking
http://www.expandinghorizonskayaking.com

Email: taylorrj AT ameritech DOT net

Beginning Kayaking:
These classes are an excellent complete beginner's course held in the safe and warm confines of an indoor pool. The class is a series of four weekly two hour sessions. The first session, be dressed for the pool session and at poolside one hour before the scheduled pool time for a safety/orientation session. Attendance at the first day is mandatory. This course will focus on basic kayaking strokes that are applicable to both sea kayaking and white water kayaking. We will also work on self and assisted rescues, recovery strokes, sweep strokes and the beginning elements of self-rescue techniques. Students should bring swimming goggles, nose plugs and a towel along with swimming apparel. Kayaks, paddle, and life jacket are available to rent for $25 for the duration of the class.
Participants under 16 must be approved in advance by the instructor.

 Jan. 21st – Feb. 11th,
Thursdays (4 weeks), 7:45-10pm (7-10pm 1st night), Brighton HS, $145/person Register at www.brightoncommunityed.com or (810) 299-4130

Mar. 11th – Apr. 1st,
Thursdays (4 weeks), 7:45-10pm (7-10pm 1st night), South Lyon HS, $145/person Register at www.slrec.com or (248) 437-8105

Mar. 9th – 30th,
Tuesdays (4 weeks), 7-9pm (7-10pm 1st night), $127/person Fenton HS, Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105

QuickStart Your Kayak:
QuickStart is a brief, three-hour introduction to paddling a kayak. Students are presented with basic information on dressing to paddle safely, potential hazards and simple rescues. A minimal paddle skill set is presented and practiced, allowing students to safely and comfortably maneuver on still water. While designed as a stand-alone, introductory course, QuickStart students often progress (strongly recommended) to the Beginning Kayaking course to acquire greater paddling skill through significantly more guided, on-water practice time. Minimum 14 years of age.

Sunday, April 18th, 3-6pm,
Ann Arbor Mack Pool, $60/person.
All gear provided.
Register at
www.a2gov.org/government/communityservices/ParksandRecreation/Pages/default.aspx

Kayak Rolling Classes:
This class will focus on the elements of hip snap development, high and low bracing and the Kayak Roll. Either the “C to C” or Sweep Roll will be taught depending upon student’s capabilities. Strength is not important in learning to roll… it’s all about boat fit, flexibility, and most importantly, proper technique. So if you are ready to learn to roll that boat, here’s your chance. The class will be scheduled for four hours, but please arrive 30-60 minutes in advance to be outfitted with gear. Kayaks, paddle, and life jacket are available to rent for $25 for the duration of the class.

Thursdays (2 weeks),
February 18th & 25th, 8-10 pm,
Brighton HS, $80/person
Register at www.brightoncommunityed.com or (810) 299-4130

Tuesdays, (2 weeks),
April 13th & 20th, 7-9 pm,
Fenton HS, $82/person
Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105

“Over Easy” Open Pool Sessions: Here’s a chance to practice all that you’ve learned in the Basic Kayaking and Rolling classes in the friendly environment of the Brighton High School pool. Perfect all those different strokes, practice rescues, and work on that “bomb-proof roll” or just come hang-out with other paddlers and swap war stories. Certified instructors will be on hand to provide pointers if needed. Kayaks, paddle, and life jacket are available to rent for $25 for the duration of the class.

Sunday, January 17th, 9:00-11:30 am,
Brighton HS, $30/person
Register at www.brightoncommunityed.com or (810) 299-4130

Saturday, January 23rd, 12:30-3:00 pm,
Fenton HS, $32/person
Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105

Saturday, February 13th, 12:30-3:00pm,
Fenton HS, $32/person
Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105

Sunday, February 21st, 9:00-11:30 am,
Brighton HS, $30/person
Register at www.brightoncommunityed.com or (810) 299-4130

Saturday, March 27th, 3:00-5:30 pm,
South Lyon HS, $30/person
Register at www.slrec.com or (248) 437-8105

Saturday, April 17, 3:00-5:30 pm,
South Lyon HS, $30/person
Register at www.slrec.com or (248) 437-8105

Tuesday, May 4th, 7:00-9:30 pm,
Fenton HS, $32/person
Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105

Tuesday, May 11th, 7:00-9:30 pm,
Fenton HS, $32/person
Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105
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Wednesday, January 06, 2010

Tuesday, January 05, 2010

High Definition Video Shiawassee River

Fall 2009 paddle along the Shiawassee River in the Holly to Fenton area of Michigan. Trying out a new waterproof camera with image stabilization and high definition capabilities. The camera is mounted to kayak via StickyPod suction cup tripod for hands free filming operation. The HeadWatersTrails Inc. group in Holly works hard to keep the river navigable almost all year long. A State of Michigan Heritage Water Trail is established between Holly and Fenton along the Shiawassee.



Monday, January 04, 2010

DANGER - Kayaking over stuff

DANGER - Kayaking over stuff

To gain a better understanding of what really happens when
water rushes over obstacles in the river, click on the links below


http://bit.ly/RocksWaterFlow


http://serc.carleton.edu/details/files/19075.html


http://serc.carleton.edu/details/files/19076.html














































 

Sunday, January 03, 2010

Kayaking Rapids on Shiawassee River ?

On November 1, the Village of Chesaning had Mayor Pro-tem Damion Frasier and River Restoration Committee member  
Neil Pullman maneuver kayaks over the newly created rock fishway to celebrate its dedication.

As the year ended, Mayor Joe Sedlar, Jr. had received word that the
U.S. Fisheries & Wildlife had requested use of the video Deana Sedlar recorded ,
showing Frasier and Pullman floating gently over the rock fishway to celebrate the project’s completion.


FREE EXPOSURE FOR CHESANING – The U.S. Fisheries and Wildlife will be promoting Chesaning
on their external affairs web site, according to Chesaning Village Mayor/President Joe Sedlar, Jr.

According to Sedlar, his wife Deana had recorded the Nov. 1 dam dedication where Doug Pullman
and Damion Frasier charged kayaks over the newly constructed rock fish ladder in the Shiawassee River.

The short film had been posted on YouTube, but the U.S. Fisheries and Wildlife liked it so much,
they requested an original copy to post on their web site.

As a result, U.S. Fish and Wildlife will be identifying/promoting Chesaning on their web site,
Mayor Sedlar told the Chesaning Village Council during their Dec. 15 meeting.

Video available here :

http://recovery.doi.gov/press/bureaus/us-fish-and-wildlife-service/alpena-national-fish-and-wildlife-conservation-office/
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I MAY BE WRONG - but I didn't see a vest or PFD, any emergency crew for Ice Cold Water Immersion
throw ropes, swift water rescue, etc., etc. and this is what they want to promote ???????



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NEW Video - right from the DNR

http://recovery.doi.gov/press/bureaus/us-fish-and-wildlife-service/alpena-national-fish-and-wildlife-conservation-office/
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A 300 ft. structure with natural waterfalls, the u-shaped drops are very, very close
to one another making maneuverability for play boating almost  impossible.

I'm told it was done for the old timers nostalgic for the Chesaning Showboat.
A ""social issue"" for the impoundment waters for the riverboat in Chesaning.
Somehow I just don't see some ancient ol' riverboat ride that great a thing in 2011.
Time moves forward -- holding on to everything from the past hinders progress.
 




























This is near Cole Park in Chesaning, Michigan

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&ll=43.185035,-84.111859&spn=0.003704,0.006539&t=h&z=18&msid=111387343905039436857.00047c496acdb50628848
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Friday, January 01, 2010

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Chesaning Dam Project

A $1.3 million improvement project on the Shiawassee River ?

http://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw/index.ssf/2009/08/rocking_the_river_13_million_p.html#comments

Several grants, including $900,000 from the state, have paid for the cost of this river improvement project

Sandy Verry of Grand Rapids, Minn.-based Ellen River Partners -- which designed the river terrain -- worked with excavator operator Aaron VandenBos of Pete's Contracting Inc. of Falmouth to place boulders and rocks.  "We're building a rock ramp in the water, and then we're building weirs across it to turn it into a rapids that fish can get up and canoeists can get down by traveling through the center of it," said Pete's Contracting owner Pete VandenBos.

http://www.recovery.gov/Transparency/RecipientReportedData/pages/RecipientProjectSummary508.aspx?AwardIdSur=49136&AwardType=Grants


CHESANING, VILLAGE OF


Replace a failed dam with a rock ramp / riffle structure to provide
fish passage to 37 miles of previously inaccessible river habitat.

Clarification of Codes



AWARD OVERVIEW

AWARD OVERVIEW
Award Number
30181RJ171
Funding Agency
Department of the Interior
Total Award Amount
$99,400
Project Location - City
Chesaning
Award Date
08/07/2009
Project Location - State
MI
Project Status
Completed
Project Location - Zip
486161098
Jobs Reported
12.00
Congressional District
04
Place of Performance Country
USA





Recipient Information (Grants)

Recipient Information (Grants)
Recipient Name
CHESANING, VILLAGE OF
Recipient DUNS Number
069823938
Recipient Address
1100 W BROAD ST
Recipient City
CHESANING
Recipient State
Michigan
Recipient Zip
486161006
Congressional District
04
Place of Performance Country
US
Required to Report Top 5 Highly Compensated Officials
No



Projects and Jobs Information

Projects and Jobs Information
Project Title
Shiawassee River Restoration and Dam Removal Project
Project Status
Completed
Final Project Report Submitted
Yes
Project Activities Description
None of the Above
Jobs Created
12.00
Description of Jobs Created
1 Foreman 6 Operators 5 Laborers





Purchaser Information (Grants)

Purchaser Information
Contracting Office ID
Not Reported
Contracting Office Name
Not Available
Contracting Office Region
Not Available
TAS Major Program
14-1610



Award Information

Award Information
Award Date
08/07/2009
Award Number
30181RJ171
Order Number

Award Type
Grants
Funding Agency ID
14
Funding Agency Name
Department of the Interior
Funding Office Name
Not Available
Awarding Agency ID
14
Awarding Agency Name
Department of the Interior
Amount of Award
$99,400
Funds Invoiced/Received
$99,400
Expenditure Amount
$99,400
Infrastructure Expenditure Amount
Not Available
Infrastructure Purpose and Rationale
Not Available
Infrastructure Point of Contact Name
Marlene Schultz
Infrastructure Point of Contact Email
villageadmin@villageofchesaning.org
Infrastructure Point of Contact Phone
989.845.3800
Infrastructure Point of Contact Address
1100 West Broad Street
Infrastructure Point of Contact City
Chesaning
Infrastructure Point of Contact State
MI
Infrastructure Point of Contact Zip
486161098



Product or Service Information (Grants)

Product or Service Information
Primary Activity Code
**Z
Activity Description
None of the Above



Sub-Awards Information

Sub-Awards Information
Sub-awards to Organizations
0
Sub-award Amounts to Organizations
$0
Sub-Awards to Individuals
0
Sub-Award Amounts to Individuals
$0
Number of Sub-awards less than $25,000/award
0
Amount of Sub-awards less than $25,000/award
$0
Number of payments to vendors greater than $25,000
0
Total Amount of payments to vendors greater than $25,000/award
$0
Number of payments to vendors less than $25,000/award
0
Total Amount of payments to vendors less than $25,000/award
$0










Location Information
Latitude, Longitude
43º 11' 10", -84º 7' 37"
Congressional District
04
City
Chesaning
County
Saginaw
State
MI
Zip
486161098







Sunday, December 27, 2009

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Paddle Sports grow larger

Outdoor Industry Foundation (OIF) is a non-profit foundation established  by Outdoor Industry Association to encourage active outdoor recreation.  OIF's charter is to increase participation in outdoor recreation and to support healthier active lifestyles.

Key Findings  

* Participation 17.8 million Americans ages 6 and older participated in
   - kayaking, canoeing, and rafting in 2008.

* 9.9 million Americans participated in canoeing in 2008.

* 7.8 million Americans participated in kayaking and 4.7 million in rafting.

* Paddling participants made 174 million outings in 2008,
    averaging 10 days per participant.

Kayaking

Kayaking has enjoyed steady growth since 2006,
climbing to 2.8 percent of Americans ages 6 and older in 2008.

* Recreational kayaking is the most popular type of kayaking followed
 -  by sea / tour kayaking and whitewater kayaking.

* 47 percent of kayakers get out 1 to 3 times per year.

Canoeing

Canoeing is the most popular type of paddling.
3.6 percent of Americans age 6 and older participated in canoeing in 2008.

* Canoeing participants make an average of 7 outings per year.
   Despite the activities greater popularity,
   canoers make fewer annual outings than kayakers
    - 77.4 million compared to 69.5 million.

For more information go to
http://www.outdoorindustryfoundation.org/
http://www.outdoorfoundation.org/research.participation.2009.html

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Monday, December 21, 2009

Real men wear skirts

Click on the link below to read more about it all :


Real men wear skirts



Saturday, December 19, 2009

Paddling themed Christmas ornaments

 Click on the link a variety of styles, colors, and themes for your Christmas tree


Paddling themed Christmas ornaments




Sunday, December 13, 2009

Friday, December 04, 2009

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

Paddling Science

http://www.examiner.com/x-23194-Detroit-Kayaking-Examiner~y2009m12d2-Paddling-Science#

Click the link for the whole article

~ Kayaking is a sport that relies heavily on aerobic power.
A strong aerobic base will allow a kayaker to work longer, at higher intensity,
thereby delaying fatigue and improving recovery time.

The level of aerobic power is determined by measuring the rate at which the body can
breathe in oxygen to the lungs, transfer oxygen from the lungs to the heart, deliver the
oxygen through the blood to the working muscles, extract the oxygen from the blood to
the muscles, and then use the oxygen in the muscles for energy production.

Once the intensity increases beyond the aerobic threshold the body uses anaerobic
methods to produce energy. This causes lactic acid to be produced. ~

Meandering along a river

We all know that rivers run from higher elevaions to lower elevations with the assistance of gravity.
Most natural rivers have twists and turns in them, very long straight sections are quite rare.
As the seasons change, the flow of water varies and fluctuates along the various flood plains.

The surprising fact about a meandering rivers' creation is that the geometric shape is similiar
around the world despite the different geophysical conditions. Geomorphology gives a
clear, detailed explanation of the causes and the development processes of meanders.

A river continually picks up and drops solid particles of rock and soil from its river bed.
In areas where the river flow is fast, more particles are picked up than dropped.
Conversely, in areas where the river flow is slow, more particles are dropped than picked up.
Areas where more particles are dropped are called alluvial or flood plains, and the
dropped particles are called alluvium. Even small streams make alluvial deposits,

The speed of the current close to the bank is usually slower than the one in mid-stream,
because of the friction with the river bank. When a disturbance to the straight water flow occurs,
as a result of an obstacle or a change in soil conditions in different parts, the water detours
the obstacle and an arc is formed in the river bed. The water flow is accelerated
and as a result the alluvium process intensifies in the external side of the arc.

Deposition of sediment occurs on the inner edge as the river sweeps and rolls
sand, rocks and other submerged objects across the bed of the river towards
the inside radius of the river bend, creating a slip-off slope called a point bar.

Erosion is greater on the outside of the bend where the soil is not protected by deposits.
The current on the outside bend is more effective in eroding the unprotected soil.
The inside bend receives steadily increasing deposits of sand and rocks,
and the meander tends to grow forming a small cliff called a cut bank.

The meanders extend the watercourse of the river; creating a reduction of the overall
flowing speed in this part of the river. As a result, there is a gradual tapering off the
centrifugal force until it diminishes altogether. The curvature radius eventually stops growing.
When the curvature radius reaches its maximum size, the meander is called a mature meander.

The more one descends down stream, the intensity of the stream grows,
and therefore the meanders reach maturity when the curvature radius is larger.
The process of meander creation is one which creates a balance in the stream's speed.
Rivers tend to balance the current speed along the river bed.

Over time,  meanders migrate downstream, sometimes creating problems for
local municipalities attempting to maintain stable roads and bridges.

Rivers deserve respect and people need to understand their power. Please wear your vests !  
Paddling a swollen river from a recent rainstorm or large snowmelt can cause loss of life.
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-

Meandering along a river

Meandering along a river

Meandering along a river

Meandering along a river

Learn where to position your boat, inside or outside bends and why

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Canoe & Kayak Racing Magazine

Check out this link for amazing articles on technique, skills, training, etc.

Canoe & Kayak Racing Magazine



Saturday, November 21, 2009

Just in time for the holidays

Happy Turkey Day wishes to all you folks,

....Way back in the beginning of the paddling season on June 7th, 09
many of you attended the annual Shiawassee River Paddle Event in Holly

A new photographer took numerous awesome, highly-detailed images that are up to
12 megapixels in resolution, big. big files.

He now has a webpage and a way to offer those pictures as downloads for purchase in various resolutions.


Please visit the link : http://primalnature.smugmug.com/gallery/10303495_6iqkA 

Feel free to pass along this message to anyone that may have attended the event.


They may make a great gift for relatives around the holidays

Also visit the main site at:  www.primal-nature.com

Thursday, November 19, 2009

César's Bark Canoe






Click on the link to see the documentary of how this was made using no nails, no high tech adhesives - just simple items from the forest.

César's Bark Canoe

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Kayak flotation - not all kayaks float

Kayak flotation bags available from any decent, good, reliable kayak shop dealing with real kayaks



 


Since all kayaks do not float, these float bags are mandatory for safe paddling on lakes and rivers

Does your kayak FLOAT - are you sure ?

Float Bags make a great holiday gift !


Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Land and Water Conservation Fund



Senate Bill #2747 - $900 million to support state and local parks along with outdoor recreation

http://www.examiner.com/x-23194-Detroit-Kayaking-Examiner~y2009m11d10-Land-and-Water-Conservation-Fund#

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Monday, November 09, 2009

Keeping the Shiawassee River navigable for paddlers


Written by Doug Lanyk - Sunday , 11/8/2009

What a day! Steve H and I met at 10:30 to stage cars and clear the 3 portages and 2 other downed trees on the Holly to Fenton stretch of the river.
We hadn't even spotted my truck in Fenton When the kayaks started to roll in. The sunshine and the mid 60's had everyone out. Of course I was on a mission to cut dead trees so I was dressed to spend the day in 45 deg. water. I found it embarrassing having just had our grand opening and the river blocked up already. We set off from Waterworks park in good order planing to put the location tags on the emergency takeout sign at the wastewater plant as our first stop. I was going to put my 5mm neoprene chest waders on there. So much for good plans. There were multiple trees down behind the Holly Convalescent Center. Three trees were down requiring you to get out of your boat and 2 more low enough the it would be a challenge for most canoes. Steve was dressed to get wet but since it was looking like a long day in the water, we tried to keep him dry. The first of the kayaks passed us there. Finishing off the sign behind the WWTP we did have clear sailing
(or technically paddling) down to the Headwaters Trails property. 2 weeks ago we could scoot by on the left. Today it required getting out of the boat. It was a messy tree with lots of branches catching
everything else coming down the river.




Steve  worked from the bank pulling the debris up on the flood plain. That took another 15 minutes and it was starting to look like a long day. The next ten kayaks passed us there. The third set of kayaks passed us while I was breaking up the logjam just passed Fish Lake Rd. It was on the first sharp corner after the culvert. I wish I new how to fix that spot within the river clearing guidelines. It's a reoccurring problem. Another bunch of fine paddlers caught up to us while I was clearing the 3 blockages in and just passed the tornado zone. The first 2 trees weren't too bad beside the fact that the water was belly button deep. One of them was over 20" diameter. The next bunch was in a spot with a nasty portage.

The start of the marsh had the ground soggy and no good spot to land. 5 trunks had come down on top of each other. It was blocking so much river there was a buildup of water on the up stream side. This was a dicey piece of cutting. No mater how I cut each trunk it wanted to pinch my blade. The kayakers were patient and cheered me on. Giving me a captive audience to sell all the good works done by Headwaters Trails. While I whittled down the trees, Steve put up the Shiawassee logo on milepost 3. Eventually it was cut through and we bid the last of the groups adieu. It still took another 15 minutes or so to finish cutting up the trees. The river was mostly clear after that. Although I did end up cutting several more trees that made the river more of an adventure than it needed to be. Our last task was mounting the logo on milepost 5. There we saw the last of several fishermen that had come up from Fenton by canoe. We slogged our tired butts up to my truck about a quarter after 4:00.

Happy Trails Doug.

Friday, November 06, 2009

Feathered paddles - The Offset

As far as I can tell - there is no right and wrong paddle set-up,
only what works well for you on any given day upon the water.

Feathered paddles - The Offset


Need a scientific study to make up your mind
- http://bit.ly/OffsetPaddles

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Plumb Bow Kayaks

These types of kayaks have some unique advantages

Plumb Bow Kayaks

Worth a look to know what your options are

Friday, October 30, 2009

Kayak Classes



Beginning Kayaking: These classes are an excellent complete beginner's course held in the safe and warm confines of an indoor pool.  The class is a series of four weekly two hour sessions.  The first session, be dressed for the pool session and at poolside one hour before the scheduled pool time for a safety/orientation session.  Attendance at the first day is mandatory.  This course will focus on basic kayaking strokes that are applicable to both sea kayaking and white water kayaking.  We will also work on self and assisted rescues, recovery strokes, sweep strokes and the beginning elements of self-rescue techniques.  Students should bring swimming goggles, nose plugs and a towel along with swimming apparel. Participants under 16 must be approved in advance by the instructor.  

 11/3-11/17, 12/1, Tuesdays (4 weeks), 7:45-10pm, $127 person

Fenton HS, Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105

11/19, 11/31-12/17, Thursdays (4 weeks), 7:45-10pm, South Lyon HS, $145 person

Register at www.slrec.com or (248) 437-8105




Kayak Rolling Classes: This class will focus on the elements of hip snap development, high and low bracing and the Kayak Roll.  Either the "C to C" or Sweep Roll will be taught depending upon student's capabilities.  Strength is not important in learning to roll… it's all about boat fit, flexibility, and most importantly, proper technique. So if you are ready to learn to roll that boat, here's your chance.  The class will be scheduled for four hours, but please arrive 30-60 minutes in advance to be outfitted with gear.  

Sunday, 11/15, 8:30am-12:30pm, Brighton HS, $80/person

Register by calling Rob Taylor @ (810) 355-6381

Tuesdays, (2 weeks), 12/8 & 12/15, 7-9pm,

Fenton HS, $82/person

Register at www.slpr.net or (248) 437-8105

 "Over Easy" Open Pool Sessions: Here's a chance to practice all that you've learned in the Basic Kayaking and Rolling classes in the friendly environment of the Brighton High School pool.  Perfect all those different strokes, practice rescues, and work on that "bomb-proof roll" or just come hang-out with other paddlers and swap war stories.  Certified instructors will be on hand to provide pointers if needed.

Sunday, 11/29, 3-5:30pm, 

Brighton HS, $30/person

Register by calling Rob Taylor @ (810) 355-6381




Thursday, October 29, 2009

Technique matters

Technique matters

Think "feet first" - initiate the stroke by first engaging your foot with the foot peg of the kayak.
Engaging the lower body just a nanosecond ahead of the paddle's entry into the water yields a big payback in moving the kayak forward efficiently.

Increasing the strength you apply to the paddles to go faster will only result in quick exhaustion.
By attempting to minimize the lag time between strokes, you'll increase speed and be more efficient.
The trick is all in the rhythm and cadence, also known as "spinning" the paddle.
Try to get one, continuous, fluid motion of the paddle going slowly at first and then pick up the pace.
Keep the paddle constantly moving, minimizing the lag between strokes.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Blue Infrastructure

Blue Infrastructure

BLUE has now become the new "green"

The OS Systems Spirit Drysuit

The OS Systems Spirit Drysuit

I own the Spirit drysuit and have used it to extend my paddling season to all 12 months of the year here in Michigan.
Since absolutely NO water gets in via latex wrist and neck seals , you stay nice and toasty warm inside.
The breathable fabric isn't insulated, so you'll need to wear a baselayer like Capilene or PolarTech underneath.


Saturday, October 17, 2009

Heritage Water trail

By Liz Shaw | Flint Journal   October 16, 2009, 2:55PM

http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/10/new_signage_marks_heritage_wat.html

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View full size            Elizabeth Shaw | Flint Journal 

Canoeists and kayakers prepare to launch at the annual Canoe in Color tour of the Heritage Water Trail on the Shiawassee River from Holly to Fenton
HOLLY and FENTON, Michigan — Not even a gray and rainy sky could dampen spirits at the annual Canoe in Color paddling tour of the Heritage Water Trail along the top of the Shiawassee River from Holly to Fenton.
On Oct. 3, about 60 hardy souls launched a flotilla of canoes and kayaks from Waterworks Park in Holly for the 2.5-hour paddle along the seven-mile route to Strom Park in Fenton.
The day’s only incident was a brief jam-up of kayaks trying to maneuver through a trio of tubes under the railroad tracks, largely thanks to the efforts of a hardworking crew of volunteers who cleared the river of obstacles earlier in the week.
Many were the same die-hard enthusiasts who sawed logs and cleared brush for weeks after a 2007 tornado blocked the route with dozens of broken and uprooted trees.

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View full size           Elizabeth Shaw | Flint Journal 

Doug Lanyk, vice-president of Headwaters Trails
“Rumor had it that there were two trees interfering with easy passage. Turned out that a wind storm ... knocked down several more,” said Doug Lanyk, vice president of Headwaters Trails, a nonprofit dedicated to building a land-and-water trail network throughout northwestern Oakland County’s headwaters region, where the Shiawassee River begins.
“We ended up cutting six trees out of the way, as well as trimming a bunch of face-slapping branches. Some slobs had put a bag of garbage in the river that we fished out, (too).”
The group also erected the new interpretive signs, mile markers and emergency posts along the route.
“The water has cooled down quite a bit. Working in shorts with water up to my belly button was invigorating,” joked Willi Gutmann, another Headwaters Trails volunteer.
Funded by a $25,500 grant from the Saginaw Bay Watershed Initiative Network, the new signage marks the climax of years of dreams and hard work by Headwaters Trails and others.
Many credit that success to Headwaters Trails president Sue Julian and husband Chuck, longtime champions for restoring the waterway and increasing its recreational opportunities.
Fenton Area Paddlers founder Maggie Yerman likened the Rose Township couple to John Muir, the legendary naturalist who founded the Sierra Club to foster and protect the fledgling national parks system in the early 1900s.
Like Muir, the Julians have a wider goal that reaches far beyond that one seven-mile stretch, said Yerman.
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View full size    Elizabeth Shaw | Flint Journal 

Headwaters Trails volunteer Willi Guttman helped organize Canoe in Color
“They do not let the lack of volunteers stop them from completing the goals of Headwaters Trails. They have contributed money, time, tools and talent, often being the only ones out there in the pouring rain installing signs or spreading gravel,” Yerman said. “Their vision is not limited to the Shiawassee River from Holly to Fenton but all the way to the Saginaw Bay.”
Indeed, the group has worked with government agencies and other public and private agencies to foster a comprehensive plan of recreational land-and-water trails linking the village of Holly and the townships of Groveland, Holly, Rose and Springfield, Seven Lakes State Park, Rose Oaks County Park and the city of Fenton.
The hope is that a maintained and signed river trail will eventually continue along the Shiawassee to Linden, Byron and through Shiawassee County en route to Saginaw County and the Saginaw Bay.
Sue Julian even has her eye on ways to foster camping and other accommodations along the river route, drawing paddlers from all over the region for extended river trips.
“It’s all part of the master plan,” said Julian, chuckling. “It’s going to take a lot of cooperation with the other communities downstream from here but we’re hopeful we can make it happen.”
Most of the interpretive signs were created by Lapeer Township illustrator Gayle Vandercook, a freelance residential designer. 
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Elizabeth Shaw | Flint Journal 

Headwaters Trails president Sue Julian (right) 
explains signs created by Gayle Vandercook (left) and Kristen Wiltfang (center) 

“At first it was a little overwhelming. I’d never even been on the river,” Vandercook said. “Sue filled me full of notes and photos. She was great for guiding me and checking on the correctness of the science and wildlife.”
The theme of two of the signs, “Share the Resource,” illustrates all the ways the waterways are used by various recreationists, from hikers and anglers to boaters and birders.
Others illustrate the wildlife found along the river, or historical points of interest in the connected towns.
Kristen Wiltfang of Oakland County Planning and economic Development Services provided colorful graphics of the Saginaw Bay Watershed on another of the kiosks.
The signage also includes emergency posts and mile markers, and a bulletin board of events and amenities in the community.
“We want people who come here to know they’re close to all kinds of shopping and restaurants here in Holly,” said Suzanne Perreault of the Holly Downtown Development Authority. “We really can see the value of how this river and trails can attract visitors to our community.”
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View full size         Elizabeth Shaw | Flint Journal 

The Heritage Water Trail's seven-mile take-out at Strom Park in Fenton