BY BOATERS FOR BOATERS July/August 2006

A VOLUNTEER PUBLICATION PROMOTING RIVER CONSERVATION, ACCESS AND SAFETY American Whitewater Journal July/August 2006

COLUMNS 3 The Journey Ahead by Mark Singleton 4 Safety First by Charlie Walbridge 5 News & Notes by Betsy McDonald 6 Events by Cheryl Robinson 8 Field Notes by Clay Wright 10 History: Whitewater and Paddlesports Industry by Sue Taft 12 Locals’ Favorite: St. Joe Drainage by Todd Hoffman 16 River Voices by Scott Bortee, Richard Styron, David Stentiford, Rocky Contos

FEATURE - The State of Freestyle 24 The State of Freestyle by Risa Shimoda, Tanya Shuman, Andrew Holcombe and Clay Wright 20 Playboating in Our Backyard by Susan Doran

FEATURE - Video and Photo Tips from the Pros 30 From Footage to Finished Film by John Grace 32 Still Photography Tips by Nikki Kelly and Johnnie Kern 42 Professional Video Tools and Techniques by Ammen Jordan

FEATURE - Top U.S. Whitewater Cities 46 Asheville, North Carolina by Christie Dobson & Dixie Marree Prickett 50 Washington, D.C. by Steve Schaefer 54 Chico / Oroville, California by Dave Steindorf 55 Johnstown, Pennsylvania by Dave Hurst 60 Boise, Idaho by Ambrose Tuscano

STEWARDSHIP 62 Green River, WA by Thomas O’Keefe 63 Hydropower Dams Must Obey Clean Water Act by Thomas O’Keefe

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Publication Title: American Whitewater Marlow Long freestyling on Issue Date: July/August 2006 the Mini Bus, Ottawa River Statement of Frequency: Published bimonthly Authorized Organization’s Name and Address: American Whitewater P.O. Box 1540 Photo by Tanya Shuman Cullowhee, NC 28723 Printed on Recycled Paper River Stewardship: processes, grassroots advocacy, coalition building, EDUCATION: AW shares information with the An Integrated Approach empowerment of volunteers, public outreach and general public and the paddling community education, and, when necessary, legal action. regarding whitewater rivers, as well as river Our mission: “To conserve and restore America’s recreation, conservation, access, and safety. This is whitewater resources and to enhance opportunities RIVER ACCESS: To assure public access to whitewater accomplished through our bi-monthly AW Journal, to enjoy them safely,” is actively pursued through our rivers pursuant to the guidelines published in its a monthly e-news, americanwhitewater.org, paddling conservation, access, safety and education efforts under official Access Policy, AW arranges for river access events, educational events, and through direct the umbrella of River Stewardship. The only national through private lands by negotiation or purchase, communication with the press. organization representing the interest of all whitewater seeks to protect the right of public passage on all paddlers, American Whitewater is the national voice rivers and streams navigable by kayak or canoe, for thousands of individual whitewater enthusiasts, as encourages equitable and responsible management Together, AW staff, members, volunteers, and affiliate well as over 100 local paddling club affiliates. of whitewater rivers on public lands, and works with clubs can achieve our goals of conserving, protecting government agencies and other river users to achieve and restoring America’s whitewater resources and AW’s River Stewardship program adheres to the four these goals. enhancing opportunities to safely enjoy these tenets of our mission statement: wonderful rivers. SAFETY: AW promotes paddling safely, publishes reports on whitewater accidents, maintains a uniform CONSERVATION: AW’s professional staff works AW was incorporated under Missouri nonprofit national ranking system for whitewater rivers (the closely with volunteers and partner organizations corporation laws in 1961 and maintains its principal International Scale of Whitewater Difficulty) and to protect the ecological and scenic values of all mailing address at PO Box 1540, Cullowhee, NC publishes and disseminates the internationally- whitewater rivers. These goals are accomplished 28723; phone 1-866-BOAT-4-AW (1-866-262-8429). recognized American Whitewater Safety Code. through direct participation in public decision making AW is tax exempt under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Service.

American Whitewater Board of Directors & Staff Journal Staff TOLL FREE NUMBER AW STAFF Editor Ambrose Tuscano Sutton Bacon Laura Blalock 14076 Northwoods Blvd. Truckee, California 96161 866-BOAT4AW e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Bookkeeper Atlanta, GA Cullowhee, NC Assitant Editor Tim Catalano [email protected] Graphic Design/Production/Photo Editor Christie Dobson Chris Bell [email protected] Tim Kelley Contributing Writers Asheville, NC [email protected] Kevin Colburn Ambrose Tuscano, Mark Singleton, Charlie Walbridge, Betsy McDonald, Cheryl Robinson, Clay Wright, Tanya Shuman, Potsdam, NY National Stewardship Director Risa Shimoda, Sue Taft, Andrew Holcomb, Todd Hoffman, Rich Bowers Moscow, ID Scott Bortree, David Stentiford, Rocky Contos, John Grace, [email protected] Don Kinser Nikki Kelly, Johnnie Kern, Ammen Jordan, Christie Dobson, [email protected] Dixie Marree Prickett, Steve Schaefer, Dave Steindorf, Bellingham, WA [email protected] Dave Hurst, Thomas O’Keefe, Richard Styron, Susan Doran, Marietta, GA Mike Hoffman Dave Cernicek Carla Miner Photo Contributors [email protected] Mark LaCroix Membership Manager North Carolina Rivers & Creeks, Tanya Shuman, Reno-Spark Jackson, WY [email protected] West Valley City, UT Convention & Visitors, Charlie Walbridge, Chris Emerick, Thorton, NH Tom Johnson, Charles Pazeshki, Todd Hoffman, Scott Savage, [email protected] Rocky Contos, Marlow Long, Jenning Steger, Nate Elliott, Adam Cramer Nikki Kelly, Johnnie Kern, Bobbette Schaefer, Eric Petlock, [email protected] Evie Locke Johnstown Convention and Visitors Bureau, Megan Seifert, Thomas O’Keefe Thomas O’Keefe, Norman Deets II, John Clements Washington D.C. [email protected] Charlemont, MA Pacific NW Stewardship Director Events / Advertising Coordinator Ben VanCamp Seattle, WA P.O. Box 1540, Cullowhee, NC 28723 David Ennis phone 828-713-5825 [email protected] Eric Nies [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] Bryson City, NC [email protected] Morgantown, WV Safety Editor Charlie Walbridge Mark Singleton Route 1, Box 329F, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525 Steve Exe e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Aaron Pruzan Executive Director Cullowhee, NC Stewarship Reports Editor Mercer Island, WA [email protected] Kevin Colburn, [email protected] Jackson Hole, WY [email protected] Liz Ferrin American Whitewater Magazine Task Force Norwood Scott Jeff Espy, Dunbar Hardy, Dale-Marie Herring, John Mason, [email protected] Dave Steindorf Tanya Shuman, Ambrose Tuscano Santa Barbara, CA [email protected] San Francisco, CA California Stewardship Director Missing Copies and Address Changes Paradise, CA [email protected] Jennie Goldberg [email protected] Charlie Walbridge [email protected] American Whitewater is printed by [email protected] The Printing House in Quincy Florida Seattle, WA All rights reserved. Bruceton Mills, WV Ben VanCamp Joe Greiner Outreach Manager [email protected] BOARD OFFICERS EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER Raleigh, NC Cullowhee, NC President: Sutton Bacon [email protected] The opinions expressed in the features and Vice President: Don Kinser editorials of American Whitewater are those of Kristine Jackson Secretary: Norwood Scott the individual authors. They do not necessarily [email protected] Treasurer: Chris Bell represent those of the Directors of American Rock Island, TN Whitewater or the editors of this publication. On occasion, American Whitewater publishes Andrew Jillings official organizational policy statements drafted [email protected] and approved by the Board of Directors. These Clinton, NY policy statements will be clearly identified.

2 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 3 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Public Outcry Over Chattooga Headwaters Ban

By Mark Singleton

After 11 years of political wrangling to river conservation organization, has taken gain Chattooga Headwaters access, AW the lead in attempting to overturn a 1976 fi led suit against the US Forest Service on ban on public paddling on the uppermost May 18th 2006. Traveling up and down 21 miles of the Chattooga. For more the chain of command in the US Forest than 10 years, American Whitewater has Service for over a decade and having the pressed the Forest Service for access to American Whitewater ticket punched each these waters. Forest Service offi cials have step of the way, it became apparent that not been able to produce any evidence that resolution of this issue would require the private hand-powered watercraft, such as attention of a federal judge. Our lawsuit kayaks and canoes, threaten the river is aimed at strengthening an otherwise corridor, yet the 30-year-old ban remains collaborative relationship with the Forest in place. Service. American Whitewater values the agency as a partner on River Stewardship The lawsuit challenges the ban on the issues across the country. However, this basis that it violates federal law, such as case is such an anomaly that legal action the Wilderness Act and the Wild and was necessary. Scenic Rivers Act. Both of these provisions support the public’s right to fl oat rivers in The Forest Service is breaking several protected wilderness areas. landmark legislative acts that are essential to nationally consistent management Terry Seyden, a spokesman for the Forest of whitewater treasures protected by Service in Asheville, said the Forest Service the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act and is currently studying the ban, with a fi nal the Wilderness Act. Both of these key decision expected around April 2007. conservation acts were designed to protect and enhance enjoyment of special places Given the provisions of the Wilderness Act for wilderness compliant users. The and the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the following endorsement of our action ran closure of these portions of the Chattooga in the Asheville Citizen-Times: seems arbitrary — and illegal. We hope this issue can be resolved without a costly Open up the Chattooga - published May courtroom fi ght and paddlers can explore 22, 2006 Asheville Citizen-Times this pristine 21 miles of water without further obstacles. Lawsuits should be like war — a last resort after all other options have been exhausted. Having said that, we approve of the At the time of this writing, a hearing date lawsuit recently fi led by several whitewater for the lawsuit has not yet been set. Ameri- recreation groups and individuals to have can Whitewater is confi dent that we have the headwaters of the Chattooga River a strong rational case based on legislative opened to paddlers. record that will lead to a favorable ruling. Once all wilderness compliant users share The Chattooga starts in the mountains equal access to this special resource we around the Cashiers/Highlands area and will work closely with the Forest Service fl ows south to form the border between to identify management practices for bal- Georgia and South Carolina. ancing all users access with the carrying capacity of the Chattooga Headwaters. American Whitewater, which bills itself as the nation’s leading non-profi t whitewater

2 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 3 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Learning from an Accident

By Charlie Walbridge

Over 30 years ago, in 1975, I encountered the fi rst river death of my career. The popular Icebreaker Slalom race was held each October below the East Sydney Dam near Unadilla, New York. Even though the shallow rapids on this little creek are barely Class II it was the fi nal event of the season and no one wanted to miss this last chance Unadilla Accident Site 30 years later to see their friends before the cold set in. I was a member of the Philadelphia Canoe photo by Charlie Walbridge Club and we had 58 of our 73 members in attendance.

The best part of the course was a nice he’d stayed with the boat. routinely warned not to stand up in fast breaking wave underneath a bridge. I moving water. It all seems so obvious now, was doing a practice run when I saw a O.K. Goodwin, the long-time safety chair but it certainly wasn’t back then. commotion down there. Ropes were fl ying of American Whitewater, said that this was and people were clearly upset. Even from a fl uke accident; I couldn’t believe that People sometimes ask why we report a distance I could sense trouble. I beached someone could die in Class II whitewater whitewater accidents in the AW Journal. my boat and ran down to the wave. There for no good reason and kept asking The accounts are not easy reading, but I saw a fl ash of yellow under the dark questions. A man who helped pull Mr. the lessons we learn from them can be water. They told me someone was caught Bernardin out of the river said that his foot invaluable. Back in the 50s the need for down there and I remember thinking, “oh was caught underneath a rock at the base life vests and the danger of dams was not my god, I have absolutely no idea how to of the ledge. He thought that the current appreciated. In the decades after Unadilla help him”. had just sucked his foot down there. Later we learned that you can drown while someone else said that they had seen wearing a life vest and that rock sieves are But neither did anyone else. Several guys Mr. Bernardin wrestle his boat ashore not easily spotted, even by elite paddlers. jumped into the water and tried to grab before he washed over the Ledge. He was Accident reports have altered equipment him as they fl oated by. It was a gutsy, but last seen standing in the creek above the design. Manufacturers switched kayak ineffective, effort. Then about 30 of us ledge. These were critical observations. foot brace styles from bars to pedals in tried to create a human dam, sitting down We had all been told it wasn’t a good idea the 70s, then from pedals to bulkheads in in the river to divert the fl ow. The moment to stand up in a river because you could the 90s to reduce entrapment risks. We’ve the water backed up we quickly lost our sprain your ankle. But lots of experienced even learned to teach people to stand up footing. Someone sent a runner up to the paddlers stood up during self-rescues and safely in fast water without trapping their dam and eventually the water was shut no one thought you could die as a result. feet by focusing on wading techniques that off. I remember watching as a lifeless man improve balance. was pulled from the river and carried to a As a teenager I hiked all over the White pickup truck. People were doing CPR on Mountains. I joined the Appalachian We’ll never eliminate the danger from the truck bed as they drove away. Mountain Club and became a regular whitewater paddling, and I’m not sure reader of accident reports in their we’d want to. Taking calculated risks is Like the rest of the racers, I was in a state journal Appalachia. Remembering them, central to the sport and it’s good fun until of shock. All the river accident reports I’d I wrote a similar report for the AW someone misses something or goes too far. ever read about involved inexperienced Journal describing what happened at the To maximize the pleasure we get from our people who made obvious mistakes, like Icebreaker Slalom. I emphasized that you sport, American Whitewater will continue running a dam or not using a life vest. I should not stand up in fast-moving water. to look at paddling tragedies with open was sure that trained paddlers who had After the article was published people and honest eyes. We’ll learn what we can, the right equipment and good training wrote describing two very similar accidents then spread the word to the rest of the were almost accident proof. As I talked that occurred in the Southeast during the paddling community, so that we can all with other racers I learned that the man’s past year. A year later, in an article written paddle just a little bit safer. name was Gene Bernardin. He’d been for Canoe Magazine, I used the term “foot paddling stern in a C-2 when his boat entrapment” for the fi rst time. The word fl ipped. His partner swam to shore but spread quickly, and nowadays novices are

4 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 5 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Tanya Faux, Nikki Kelly and Ruth Gordon celebrate Back in Action at women’s boatercross Reno’s Truckee River photo courtsey of Reno-Sparks Convention & Vistors Whitewater Park

By Betsy McDonald, RKPR Inc.

It’s May and the sun is shining brightly and created so much movement that we Here is how the competitions ended up: on the Truckee River Whitewater Park in knew a lot of sediment would be stirred downtown Reno, Nevada and the crowd up, but this was something we were Men’s Invitational Freestyle of nearly 20,000 spectators attending prepared for when we built the park,” said 1 - Eric Jackson the 3rd annual Reno River Festival. As Jim Litchfi eld, one of the park’s designers 2 - Stephen Wright the festivities take center stage in what and a lead advocate for its development. 3 - Jay Kincaid has quickly become one of the top “We’ve learned from past experiences whitewater festivals in the country, it’s and knew certain things. We knew that Women’s Invitational Freestyle hard to believe that just four months ago the island would create a blockage and 1 - Tanya Faux this setting was under more than three we anticipated that the bridges and pools 2 - Nikki Kelly feet of water. would start collecting debris and fi lling the 3 - Emily Jackson pools in the park. Fortunately the City of A warm New Year’s Eve storm in the Reno was prepared and, because of their Men’s Open Freestyle Sierra Nevada brought higher than support and the value they place on the 1 - Jud Keiser expected fl ows to the Truckee River, park, they never doubted that the efforts 2 - Corey Volt causing the river to fl ood. The Truckee would be worth it. And here we are four 3 - Josh Matsell peaked at 16,000 cfs (maximum channel months later with our most successful capacity is 12,000 cfs), and overfl owed its Reno River Festival event and everyone is Women’s Open Freestyle banks, depositing debris and sediment having a great time. Kudos really do go out 1 - Devon Barker within the park itself. The sudden rise to the City for all they did.” 2 - Lizzie English in water level fi lled the 11 pools at the 3 - Christie Glissmeyer Whitewater Park with almost 7,000 Thanks to the City’s initiative, advance cubic yards of debris as the waters planning and the course’s design, the Men’s Boatercross surged beyond the river banks and Truckee River Whitewater Park was 1 - Eric Jackson into Wingfi eld Park. Typical water fl ow ready for its largest event, the 3rd annual 2 – Bryan Kirk during this time of year is 1,450 cfs. The Reno River Festival. And there’s a lot to 3 - Jay Kincaid City of Reno responded to the situation be grateful for including the increased and quickly took steps to restore the fl ows from the tremendous winter snow Women’s Boatercross park to its previous state. Fortunately, pack in the Sierra. The fi nal competition 1 – Nikki Kelly when engineers designed the park in was moved from Hole Three to Two to 2 – Tanya Faux 2002 they took into account the possible accommodate the increased river fl ow. 3 – Ruth Gordon effects of fl ooding and both the freestyle More than 60 athletes turned out for some and slalom courses were restored within of the fi ercest competition this season. In addition to live kayaking action, the three weeks of the fl ood waters receding. Reno River Festival featured live music, By creating “soft spots” in the Truckee’s Eric Jackson brought his whole team to great food, tons of vendors and lots of riverbed, park designers allowed room compete, including Reno local Jay Kincaid, beer to keep crowds entertained during to accommodate the heavy equipment Canadian Ruth Gordon and both of his the day. At night, revelers could choose required during reconstruction without kids, 12-year-old Dane and 16-year-old from VIP parties, 24-hour gaming, live damaging any existing park features. Emily, who was the one to watch after her shows, hot clubs and the world premiere These “soft spots” are simply parts of the second place fi nish at last year’s Festival. of Burning Time II, Scott Lindgren’s new park that were not altered or cemented in Nikki Kelly took the women’s boatercross 16mm adventure fi lm. place for maintenance purposes. Because fi nals, while EJ swept both the men’s the park is divided into two channels by an boatercross and pro invitational freestyle For more information on the 2006 Reno River island, crews are able to block one channel competitions. Tanya Faux cleaned up in Festival or for details on next year’s event, log on while repairs are made and then easily the women’s pro freestyle competition, to www.RenoRiverFestival.com or call 800-FOR- move to the other channel. Jud Keiser took home fi rst in the men’s RENO (800-367-7366). For more information open freestyle and Devon Barker won it about Reno-Tahoe, America’s Adventure Place, visit “The rise in water fl ow happened so fast for the women. www.VisitRenoTahoe.com.

4 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 5 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Northeast USA Beaver Festival (NY) year around 8000 paddlers descend on Summersville, West Virginia to enjoy great Festival Season September 2-4, 2006 paddling and an even better party. By Cheryl Robinson If you like creeking, BeaverFest—as it’s The Gauley River has three sections. The known to locals—is absolute heaven. most famous is the Upper Gauley (IV-V), Spring paddling is upon us in the Northeast. No fields full of vendors, just hoards a spectacular section full of holes, waves Because winter arrived late and provided of paddlers coming together on a rare and challenging big water moves. Most only a sprinkling of snow, it appears the release weekend. paddlers avoid the Class III+ Middle in paddling will be less fruitful than in years favor of the stretches above and below, but past. We shouldn’t despair, though; the Four releases on two different rivers it can be great for beginners. The Lower Northeast has a whole host of dam releases are guaranteed for this weekend. The Gauley (III-IV) is a great introduction to whet your appetite and ensure kayaking Beaver river has three runnable sections. to the unique flavor of the Gauley and is every weekend through late October. It releases Saturday on the Taylorville definitely the most playful section. Another highlight is the abundance section (III-IV), Sunday on the Class of whitewater festivals throughout the IV Moshier (the only time the Moshier The Gauley Festival, held on Saturday season, guaranteeing numerous paddlers releases all year) and Eagle (V) sections, night, is huge. Like the paddlers, the celebrating the kayaking lifestyle. Without and Monday on both the Taylorville and vendors come en mass and a whole range further introduction, here are my favorite Eagle sections. To top it all off, the nearby of paddling and whitewater toys can be Northeast festivals: Raquette River’s Stone Valley section (IV- found: it’s goodies galore. AW and its V) releases Saturday and Monday. many volunteers do a great job organizing the event. Everything about it is huge, Deerfield Festival (MA) This is one of my favorite weekends of from the great bands providing live the year. It provides three full days of July 29-30, 2006 entertainment to the Wavesport big air adrenaline rushes, whether it’s paddling ramp competition on the river. The Deerfield has the most consistent the Class III rapids on Taylorville or pushing your limits on the Eagle. While whitewater in New England, consisting of Parties can be found in every corner of the three sections on the Beaver are similar two runs, the Dryway (III / IV) and Fife the festival site, and probably most of the in feel and only vary in technicality, the Brook (II / III). This river has something local hotels as well. Also available locally is Raquette provides something altogether for everyone. the New River Gorge, probably one of the different. The first rapid, Colton Falls, is most scenic rivers I have paddled, and in eye popping all by itself and it’s followed While the Deerfield Festival lasts for two good flows, a monster big water run. by another six rapids that are as equally good days of paddling, the actual festival With all the action and excitement, as daunting. is held in Charlemont, Massachusetts GauleyFest just screams “fun, fun, fun!” on Saturday evening. A good variety of vendors attend the show. Better yet, it is While there is no festival field for paddlers an American Whitewater event, and their to enjoy, the Beaver river campsite at Soft Moose Festival (NY) silent auction has always been a favorite Maple more than makes up for it. The of mine. It is usually hard to walk away campfires provide a great place to mingle, October 14-15, 2006 from the Deerfield Festival empty handed meet new paddlers and share stories and MooseFest is the most famous northeastern with all of the free loot and great paddling beer. If the rain gods are generous there is festival. It is uniquely identified with goodies available. an abundance of other creeks in the area, one group of paddlers—those who like making you spoilt for choice. to run the gnar—although a few of us Zoar Outdoor does a great deal to make less ambitious beings go along for the this festival what it is. Not only do they The Beaver Festival is all about pure atmosphere and the hope that something provide instruction and rafting, they creeking and camaraderie. else in the area will be running. put on a couple of competitions at the Dryway’s Dragon’s Tooth. The spirit of The event’s focus is the Bottom Moose, these competitions is less about winning Gauley Festival (WV) a classic Class V run, with every type of than fun, as pirates and clowns always September 22-25, 2006 drop imaginable. While it’s not the Green seem to be the favorites. The Deerfield Narrows, the Moose above six feet can Festival is all about friends, family While not exactly in the Northeast, Gauley make anyone tremble (even spectators). and fun. Fest is one of the biggest whitewater The Bottom Moose is really a show in festivals in existence. No festival guide and of itself; it attracts a large number would be complete without a mention of of spectators because of the easy access American Whitewater’s GauleyFest. Each and the huge entertainment factor. The

6 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 7 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Corrections

We want to apologize to Ben Edson for incorrectly crediting his photo technicality and popularity of the Bottom of Stacy Heer on page 29 of our Moose make it a guaranteed carnage fest. May/June 2006 issue. Sorry Ben! The photo credit should have read: Ben If you’re not up for running the Bottom Edson-downstreamphoto.com Moose and the Rain Gods have provided, there is an abundance of other rivers, including the Middle (III) and Lower Moose (IV). Other rivers in the area are the Independence (II-V), Otter Creek (III-IV) and the Class III-IV Black River in Watertown, which has a special release on the same weekend.

In the last few years, changes have been made to MooseFest’s evening events. Last year saw an Old Forge Bar Crawl, which was a huge success. On Saturday night in We also wish to apologize to Bruce the Festival Hall, the vendors were a bit Cowie for failing to give him credit scarce … but being almost the end of the for the photo of his wife and son on season MooseFest means great bargains page 52 of our May/June issue. The can be found and I have never left there empty handed. caption should have read “Janet and William post maternity spray skirt.” Northeast’s best … MooseFest.

If this list isn’t enough for you, or if you’d rather head further north, check out these popular Canadian river festivals:

Kipawa River Festival - June 25-26, 2006 Gatineau WW Festival - Aug. 26-27, 2006 Ottawa River Festival - Sept. 2-3 2006

6 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 7 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 9 July/August 2006 Farm for the Future Get creative with the river’s fl ow. Try using constantly chasing a new style of fun. It is features other than the water: rocks, trees, hard to train for inspiration: the harder By Clay Wright debris, other boaters. Impress your buds you try, the more elusive it becomes. Fun, with a new line, push through an old one on the other hand, is like wine, coffee at a new level, challenge yourself to fi nd or chocolate; the more you indulge the The future of freestyle something you’ve never done before in a greater your lust for indulgence. place you’ve been 100 times. Anywhere. kayaking starts right While you are at any level. That’s freestyle If setting up the tripod and working your kayaking, and it’s accessible to everyone. tricky-woo inspires you to watch more now. You don’t need TV, remember everything you’ve done I bet thousands of years ago some Inuit in a kayak and strive daily to do just one a special boat, you slid off an iceberg and into the water in thing differently. You can start by fi nding a don’t need a panel of an early kayak. So those of you imagining new channel or running rapids backwards. the ender as the oldest trick in the book Move on driving up on rocks, banging judges—you don’t might just rethink that notion. When did though slots, and melting into a few holes. the fi rst river runner get stuck in a hole … Borrow an old/long or new/short boat; even need sponsors, and like it? Who fi rst decided to paddle test out some hand-paddles, or try and upstream to ride the face of a wave? Were fi nd the most indirect line through every stickers, or fans. Just do these pioneers just ourselves in a previous rapid and challenge your friends to follow. life or were they passed down through an You might even try doing tricks on a wave, what you love on oral tradition or DNA? in a hole, or on the way down a rapid. It’s the river. the roots of Freestyle kayaking you are It’s all history at this point, important only digging, and from them some amazing for where we are now. While it is respectful inspirations have grown. In the garden of to remember and honor the Snyder’s and ways to move creatively with river, some McDonough’s of the sport, let me suggest things are fresh, some out of season, and Retro-cool: savoring the simiple surf on Rapid #2, that it is more important to recognize that some just taking root. Sample the produce. Zambezi River the people making the biggest mark are Better yet, grow your own.

photo by Chris Emerick simply the most creative people who are

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 9 July/August 2006 Tom Johnson and his River Chaser Whitewater and the Paddlesports Industry photo courtsey of Tom Johnson By Sue Taft

While it would seem from these numbers that the whitewater segment of the market According to the Outdoor Industry Association’s recent would have little influence on the overall kayak market, this belies its earlier influ- participation study for 2004, whitewater kayaking enthu- ence on the development of the overall paddlesport industry. siasts (i.e. those who participate more than three times In the 1960s, kayaking was a very small per year) number about 222,000 compared to 1.8 million piece of paddlesports and was predomi- nantly made up of folding kayaks and non-whitewater enthusiasts (Canoeing enthusiasts num- home-built composite kayaks (mostly for whitewater) which circumvented the ber 3.6 million but OIA doesn’t break-out whitewater “market” altogether. Kayaking paled in comparison to canoeing, which was domi- from non-whitewater—there just aren’t many of us nated by Old Town and Grumman. Many felt that TV coverage of slalom in the ’72 whitewater canoeists out there any more). Olympics would launch whitewater as it did for skiing in earlier Olympics. While 10 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 11 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Thanks in part to whitewater, kayaking in all forms now the popularity of whitewater did increase market. However that segment of the after 1972, it was really not attributable industry also came under fi re when the comprises roughly half to the Olympics but rather to two other owner of Perception, Bill Masters, ex- coincident whitewater events during the panded Perception’s plastic kayak line of overall paddlesport same summer—the release of the movie to include fi rst, river-touring kayaks and deliverance and the publication of Walt soon after, seakayaks under the Aquaterra participation. Blackadar’s story of his solo decent of brand leveraging his already formidable Turnback Canyon by Sports Illustrated. dealer and marketing network established Not only do the newer (and larger) non- Both whitewater canoeing and kayaking for whitewater. While the initial reaction whitewater kayaking segments owe part of got a boost but it was kayaking that ulti- on the part of the composite manufactur- their popularity to the earlier experimen- mately made the biggest gains. ers might have been dismay and deja vu, tation in manufacturing, distribution, and again the affordability of plastic sea-kay- marketing practices established by earlier To meet what was perceived as a growth aks ultimately contributed to the increase whitewater kayak manufacturers, but also market for whitewater kayaks, Hollow- in the overall market. for establishing the viability and accep- form (a California-based rotational mold- tance of plastic kayaks with the consumer ing company) introduced the fi rst plastic Even the recreational kayak market has in the fi rst place. whitewater kayak in 1973. The River its links to whitewater. Ann Dwyer, who Chaser was designed by Tom Johnson, a initially introduced the Minnow in com- Copyright © 2006 Susan L. Taft long-time paddler and advocate for sla- posites around 1980 (and which was the All rights reserved. lom racing. It was affordable and relatively basis for almost all that followed), de- With permission for use by American non-destructible and therefore provided signed the Minnow as a short, entry-level Whitewater. for greater accessibility for the growing river running kayak with an open cockpit. interest in whitewater. In 1978, Perception This style of kayak was less intimidat- entered the plastic whitewater kayak mar- ing to her entry-level students than a ket and in four short years, solidifi ed its traditional (at that time) 13-foot closed position as the market leader at 33% over- cockpit whitewater kayak. Rec kayaks taking Hollowform at 25% of the market. were soon produced in volume in plastic Whitewater kayaks made up an estimated by whitewater manufacturers. Perception 75% of the overall kayak market with plas- produced a plastic version, the Keowee, tic kayaks making up three-quarters of the followed by Hydra (the whitewater kayak total whitewater kayaks. The increased manufacturer who picked up Tom John- availability of plastic whitewater kayaks son’s designs after Hollowform folded) not only eliminated the need for home- who produced Dwyer’s own Minnow built kayaks but also greatly expanded the version (Dwyer wrote Easy Waters of market potential for whitewater kayaks. California focusing on the Class I-II riv- Now anyone could get into whitewater ers. She owned California Rivers, which and many people did. introduced the Minnow in composites, and later, Kiwi Kayaks, who produced her The availability of plastic whitewater rec kayaks in plastic after Hydra folded. kayaks in the market also had another She also paddled one of her Kiwi kayaks impact—it short-circuited the fl edgling down the Grand Canyon, at the age of 65, composite kayak industry, much of which as a testament to their versatility). was based on whitewater. Phoenix was the only major non-plastic player in the kayak market (with about 15% of the kayak market up against Perception and Hollowform’s combined 58%), producing mostly whitewater kayaks with a few non- Sue Taft is the author of The River Chasers, whitewater kayak models thrown into the mix. While Phoenix ultimately shifted its The History of American Whitewater Canoeing and composite production away from paddle- Kayaking. If you have a topic or question you would sports altogether, a few others including Eddyline and Easy Rider, shifted their like answered, e-mail it to [email protected] product lines away from the whitewater and look for its answer in an upcoming issue. market to the emerging touring/seakayak 10 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 11 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 St. Joe Drainage

By Todd Hoffman

Truly a piece of God’s Country, the St. and easy access, it still holds country as the south. At Avery you can get expensive Joe watershed is a rare gem tucked into a wild as any in Idaho. gas, cold beer, haircuts on Wednesdays remote corner of Idaho’s Panhandle. Lying and not much else. It’s an example of the just north of the massive North Fork of The hub of paddling activity on the Joe dying resource-based communities and the Clearwater basin and just south of is the tiny timber town of Avery, where culture of Idaho’s backcountry. The locals Interstate 90, the Joe’s drainage is unique several of the river’s major tributaries are all friendly, and greatly appreciate in many ways. It contains an unusual converge about 60 miles upstream from your patronage. concentration of rivers and creeks in the river’s mouth at Lake Coeur d’ Alene. close proximity, all with good access, long, Access to Avery is via the historic town of As you drop over Moon Pass from Wallace, predictable seasons (by Idaho standards), Wallace, located on Interstate 90 to the you’ll encounter the North Fork, the Joe’s and unbelievably clean water. Nowhere north. The winding dirt road that connects largest tributary, known to locals as the else in northern Idaho will you find such the two towns, snaking over Moon Pass, Little Joe. Starting from the small parking a great diversity of quality whitewater for usually opens just as run-off begins in the area at the Loop Creek Bridge for 10 miles paddlers of all skill levels. Despite the Joe’s early spring. Access is also possible from down to Avery, the Little Joe gradually proximity to major population centers, St. Maries, Idaho for those coming from builds from a swift, shallow Class II

Simmons Peak in the Headwaters of the St. Joe

photo courtsey of Charles Pezeshki

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 13 July/August 2006 The Skyline of the Headwaters of the St. Joe photo courtsey of Charles Pezeshki stream to a bouncing series of long, Class V realm, the Joe has something to Once you’ve had a chance to sample the winding, Class III-III+ rapids, dropping offer as well. Just five minutes down river Joe’s creeks you might want a nice intro to around 65 feet per mile. Flows range from Avery, Slate Creek dumps in on the medium volume river running Panhandle from 500 to 1,500 cfs, which qualifies as north side out of a completely hidden style. Just a 40-minute drive upstream a creek by Idaho standards. The North slot canyon (which is why you won’t from Avery is the Tumbledown section of Fork makes a nice introduction to Idaho find it in any of the guidebooks). Slate the Main St. Joe. Tumbledown is a mellow creeking for intermediate level paddlers or Creek has a completely different character III/IV at medium flows (under 5,000 cfs) more adventurous novices. There is great from other Panhandle creeks. Instead jumping up to a very solid, big-water Class camping on the North Fork throughout of Idaho’s typical continuous, non-stop IV at high flows (5,000 to 8,000 cfs). The the boating season. gradient, Slate is a tight, pool-drop run run starts off easy and gradually builds over big bedrock ledges and slides. Also, into nice long rapids with tall crashing Just 15 minutes down the main St. Joe instead of the typical Batholith Granite waves and easy but consequential moves from Avery is Marble Creek, the second of most Idaho steep creeks, Slate Creek around sizable holes. Giant mossy cedars largest tributary of the Joe, dumping in has a polished slate bed filled with clear, and hemlocks make up the scenery in on the south side. Marble is definitely a bubbling, turquoise water reminiscent of this shadowy canyon, and nice camping is couple of notches in difficulty up from the Canadian Rockies. plentiful during the early season, but fills the North Fork with gradient ranging later on. Tumbledown can be run all the from 50 to 140 feet per mile, a significantly way down to 500 cfs late into the summer more constricted streambed and slightly The run starts four miles for a creeky, low-flow run when everything less volume. With its consistent steep above the confluence else in the area has long since dried up. gradient and fast water, this creek is one of my favorite runs anywhere. It is a nice with the Joe at the ruins If you’re still starving for adventure after mix of half-mile long Class III+ rapids of an old miner’s cabin Tumbledown, you’re only an hour’s drive that wind around tight slalom bends, away from the crown jewel of the St. Joe linked by a few standout Class IV drops to and quickly builds to drainage, the Headwaters. The 18 miles make things interesting. Make no mistake into Class IV slides and of the St. Joe from Heller Creek to Spruce about the difficulty of this run; while it’s Tree is completely roadless, and is part straightforward read and run cruising, ledges as the canyon and of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers taking a swim would be quite dangerous walls rise and constrict. system. The character of the run is typical given the scarcity of eddies and the Idaho headwaters type boating, requiring high gradient. Near the end of the run skill in spotting and avoiding sweepers and logs. With gradient topping out at You can make Marble Creek into a short, the gradient picks up 118 feet per mile (averaging around 50 non-stop, high-speed run by putting in at significantly as the river to 60) the rapids are a mix of long Class Marble Creek Camp and bombing down III and IV. The section is runnable with to either the Boulder Creek Bridge or to drops over a massive flows between 500 and 750 cfs, but runoff the interpretive center at the confluence series of broken, walled- happens early and quick. Access is a major with the main Joe. This gives you the challenge on this run since the only roads option to squeeze in a couple runs. If you in Class V ledges in tight to the put-in run over high altitude passes, want an all-day wilderness type run, you sequence called Triple leaving an extremely short window where can put in at Camp 3, roughly 15 miles the roads are clear of snow and the river up from the confluence. Either way you’re Drop. The lead in can is still high enough to run. For more sure to have a grin on your face at the end be difficult at low water, predictable access you can pack your gear of the day, and that warm fuzzy buzz from in on horseback from Red Ives ranger running continuous whitewater. Paddlers and the ledges are all station. Plan on at least two or three days new to the area often have a hard time must make boofs over for your adventure and be prepared for adjusting to Marble’s clean, clear water, as wilderness conditions. they see the river bottom whizzing by at powerful reversals that high speed with a mesmerizing clarity not While I’ve given a taste here of my favorite found east of the Continental Divide. have delivered more than rivers, I haven’t really touched on the one Idaho rodeo. reasons why they’re my favorites, and why For those wanting to venture into the I chose to write about them. Seems kind

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 13 July/August 2006 of strange, broadcasting your other section of land, one square own secret uncrowded boating mile each, completely clearcut, playground to all paddlers across every other section not yet clear the nation, especially when cut, heavily logged. It’s not too everything is already in place hard to guess which sections are to keep them a secret for years private land and which sections to come. Only the most vague are public land. Every year this descriptions have ever been destruction marches closer put down on this area in the to the wild headwaters of the guidebooks, some runs escaping Joe and every year permanent them all together. Well, the protection seems more unlikely reason I love the Joe doesn’t have and improbable. as much to do with river running as it does with the place itself; I seriously doubt that the the place is the reason I want to share Boaters camp on the North Fork of the St. Joe economic impact of recreational uses like

the secret. The St. Joe River cuts through photo courtesy of Todd Hoffman whitewater boating will ever outweigh the one of the largest National Forests in the demand for the St. Joe’s timber. However, lower 48, and it also forms a piece of one I do believe that recreation is at least one of the largest unprotected roadless areas in the St Joe’s mountains and playing in vehicle to help reveal that the true value of the contiguous US. It’s hard to appreciate her streams, taking their beauty, their the Upper St. Joe, and other rare places like what this means without seeing it, and comforting solace and their very existence it, is a function of their wildness. Unless we there is probably only one place to absorb for granted. As an adult, I left this sleepy make this priceless value understood there it in a single view. paradise and was thrust into a suffocating is little hope for protection. Ironically, world full of too many people with no despite the many urgent threats to the St. On the way into the Upper Joe, an old road wild places. It was only then that I truly Joe, I believe boaters need the St. Joe more breaks off to the right, gradually turning appreciated the profound signifi cance of desperately than the St. Joe needs boaters. into a trail, leading to Needle Peak. Joe’s wild country, and also understood Boaters need to see the wild country of Topping out at just over 6,300 feet, its how rare such an appreciation is. I realized the Upper Joe in order to understand summit is one of the only places that gives that the St. Joe country was not only that water and land are one, and that a complete view into the hidden 2,500- my own spiritual guidepost, but that it wild canyons and free-fl owing rivers are foot deep tree-lined gorge of the upper was also a benchmark from where the the soul of river running. This soul can Joe. It is also one of the only places in the shortsighted stupidity of human progress never be replaced by artifi cial whitewater US, outside of a designated wilderness could be measured. As long as the Upper courses or negotiated dam releases or by area, where you can gaze in every direction Joe remains wild and intact, I’ll know compromises. We need places like the of the compass, to the edge of the horizon, there is some hope for us. Upper Joe in order to recalibrate our and not see a single road or clearcut or any understanding of what rivers really are sign of human existence. Thousands of Unfortunately, this vast wild country of and to know how we should leave them acres carpeted in thick green forests form the Upper Joe is an extreme contrast to for our children. Please come and enjoy a rolling sea of mountains, extending the rest of the Joe. The headwaters of this local’s favorite. miles and miles to the north, south, east Marble Creek, Slate Creek and the North and west. The Mallard Larkins and the Fork remain barely intact and mostly distant ranges in the Clearwater poke up wild, but they are cut by too many roads on the southern horizon and the jagged and surrounded by the handy work of white peaks of Cabinet Mountains and the a hundred of years of logging that can Selkirks fence the northern skyline. only be described as cataclysmic in scale. Satellite photos of the Joe’s southern fl ank As a child, I grew up rambling through reveal a gigantic checkerboard, every

14 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 15 July/August 2006 Thanks Dave!

By Scott Bortree

Over the last few years, I’ve read some interesting and wonderful articles Dave Kurtz receiving the Youth Leadership Award at the 2005 written as tributes Junior Olympics at South Bend, Indiana

to folks who helped photo by Scott Savage others in their early paddling years. all the young scouts. Most campers’ fi rst on Spring Creek in Bellefonte for our exposure to paddling was Dave’s canoeing permanent slalom practice course. Every time I read something like this, I class, where we paddled Grummans and always think about the guy who helped learned the basic strokes and safety. After Dave won a national championship in me get started, and I say, “I ought to write that introduction I was hooked. Dave was whitewater slalom, and at least four of something thanking Dave while he’s still the leader of State College’s Explorer Scout “his” Explorers also became national helping other young paddlers.” Post for older scouts, where he taught us slalom champions. Dave hauled dozens, how to run and race on whitewater, rock if not hundreds, of boys to run and race Many years ago, I was an Explorer Scout climb, camp and be good citizens. on rivers around the Eastern United States in Post 32 in State College, Pennsylvania. and Canada. He drove from Vermont That was the fi rst time I paddled the Lower Besides Scouts, Dave was involved in all to West Virginia to Canada, hauling the Yough in Ohiopyle. I’d been practicing aspects of the new sport of whitewater; Explorer Scouts and the boats so we could and learning for a couple of years in and he was a very busy man. Back then, paddle. Often, there were so many boats pool sessions and on local rivers like the you couldn’t just go to the store and buy stacked on Dave’s VW bus that we’d have Red Moshannon, West Branch of the a kayak. You had to build your own from to stop at low bridges and untie the boats Susquehanna and Spring Creek, all to get a mold. Dave fi gured out how to build to fi t through. Plus, he was a grad student ready to run the mighty Yough. We drove kayaks and decked canoes, bringing in a busy with his own life of attending and down in Dave’s old VW Microbus, and guy from the former Yugoslavia to help teaching classes at Penn State. I’ve always wanted to thank Dave for the make the molds and fi nd the materials. He ride. It started me on a lifetime of river fun built most of the molds himself, and then And what’s most amazing is that this and adventure. he taught anyone who was interested how guy started doing all of this in the early to build their own boat. At age 14, I spent 1960s, and he’s still doing the same stuff Dave Kurtz (DK) was and still is the guy several months in my parents’ back room today. If you are a kid in State College, in central Pennsylvania who is involved building my fi rst kayak, the Bat Boat, from Pennsylvania and you want to learn to in getting kids in boats and showing Dave’s mold. kayak, it’s DK who is still teaching, lending them about paddling. In 1960, I was 10 boats and gear, driving to the races, and on years old and couldn’t wait until I was 11 He was huge in the racing scene, and and on and on. He is the real deal. Who’s so I’d be old enough to go to Boy Scout not just in Pennsylvania. He created and been coaching kids longer in State College: camp and take the canoeing classes from perfected the national ranking system Joe Paterno or Dave Kurtz? Dave got me, Dave. My older brother was already in for paddlers, fi nding a way to weigh and many others, started on a lifetime the Explorer Scout Post, led by DK, and each race by its river diffi culty and racer of boating. he was paddling whitewater! It was such quality. Every year, he’d spend hours a big deal back then. The sport was still doing statistical calculations to maintain I get to spend a lot of time in my boat now being invented, and DK was the guy. I the national ranking system for slalom on my home river, the Yough. It’s where I joined the Boy Scout troop as soon as I and wildwater racers. He started and ran feel most at home. And there are a lot of was old enough, and Dave always opened many local Pennsylvania whitewater races, days as I’m slipping through the slot in summer camp with an Indian dance and founded the Wild Water Boating Club for Railroad Rapid, I whip into an eddy, look fi re lighting ceremony that enchanted racers in State College, and got the site around and say to myself, “Thanks, Dave.”

16 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 17 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Anticipation

By Richard Styron

The wind picks up. The skies grey. A chill passed, moved eastward into the Delta. Your brain commands wordless action, moves into the populace, displacing sun- Masses of cloud slide between the ridges, primitive, animalistic and perfect. warmed cheer with drear and lethargy. wash through the trees, eddy out in the Adrenaline makes the senses sharper, The barometer drops. But as mountain valleys. The streams are bank full; leaves enabling you to take in the sensory bikes are taken down off roof racks and and branches picked up in the night are overload. Inhale. See the little tributary garaged, scattered heads across the state set down, marking high water, as the fl ow on river left spill a hundred feet off a bluff begin to rise, ears start to prick. A storm is slowly starts to wane, even this early. The into the trees. Quick, turn upstream and brewing. Communication pulses through hollers resonate with the crackle and pop catch the wave. Surf. Spin. Grin. Exhale. lines of a long dormant network before of rocks and water. Knucklebuster is fast and boney as you the fi rst drops hit the ground, and the bounce your way down. When was the Arkansas boating community once again The Internet stream gauges have updated. last time you laughed this much? Your establishes itself ephemerally. “Where Richland Creek’s there but low; not what ecstasy is countered by the butterfl ies will the rain fall?” emails question. “What you were hoping for. It’s running, however, in your stomach as you pull up to scout rivers will run?” telephones ask. and that’s a lot more than could have Lower Screw-up. Your hands shake as you been said for yesterday. Your breakfast get back in your boat and put on your Sitting at a desk, it’s impossible not to turn is hot, fi lling, hurried; you’re starting to sprayskirt, and as you line up for the boof and watch the view undulate through the buzz with anticipation. The three cups at Door No. 2 (count your strokes and sheet of water fl owing down the window. of coffee you pound while waiting on make them count) you suck in a ragged How long has it been since you’ve paddled? your paddling buddy do nothing to help. breath. You launch over the horizon line, The percussion of rain hitting the glass Highway 16, heading east. A bluebird sky the rest of the rapid comes into view, and increases in cadence and intensity, raising is perforated by bursts of cloud, rising you can’t help but let out a little yip; you your heartbeat. Coming home, you check as the air warms. Horizontal bands of know you styled it. the roadside, looking for the formation vertical cliff faces—resistant bedrock of key puddles. The puddles grow, spill, layers of limestone and sandstone—rise The cold night is starless. Heat and light join, and suddenly there’s movement in sharply above the soft grey covering of the are limited to a small radius around the the ditches, in the rivulets and streams. leafl ess oak and hickory. Your elation rises campfi re, populated but quiet in contented The creeks begin to fl ow, and over dinner with elevation as you climb up the spine of exhaustion. The movement of the fl ames you ponder the next day. What needs to the landscape. Ridges, ribs of the plateau, is like the movement of waves; always be done? What obligations can be moved, fall away to either side—the wide valley repeating but never exactly the same. skirted, overlooked? More importantly, of the Arkansas on the right, the mighty Few comforts rival a hoodie sheltering where is it raining, and how hard? You get Buffalo’s gorge on the left. chilled and worn muscles against a falling online, check the river gauges even though mist. Soon, the rain picks up and you you know it’s too early in the storm. Click Boating. Sparks of sunlight fl y from the head to your tent. Peals of thunder tell on the radar animation. The two minutes pulsating water. The fl uidity of the creek of tomorrow. You’re swept into sleep by you spend waiting for it to load seems to is matched by your body’s movement; thoughts of high water. take longer than the fi ve hours of weather hips, shoulders, arms, eyes synchronized. Copyright 2004 Richard Styron. All rights reserved. recorded, but eventually you see the green turn to yellow, then orange … a burst of red. Pack your gear bag: its constituents are scattered and decimated from the last storm cycle. Where the hell is that helmet liner? Why do you have two left booties? The last radar frame is loaded, and the storm grows and resets in endless repetition. It looks like Newton County is about to get pounded. But will it? You’ve been burned before. Sleep is elusive, hiding behind mental movies of the boof at Crack in the Rock.

Darkness dissipates and the hills and sky differentiate. The night’s thunder has

16 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 17 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 The Mysteries of Skookumchuck

By David Stentiford “Who’s up?” Back in the eddy, I line up and hold my the term “Skookum”: supernaturally place with one hand on the rock-ledge, dangerous. The literal meaning of the trying not to shove my fi ngers in a sea compound, “Skookum chuck” means The wave is free and anemone. Two friends chat in front of me. “powerful water.” One is on the bank holding out his digital I peel-out into the camera, the other sits in his boat. Exhausted, I snug on my hat and adjust current, lineup with my headlamp. Man I wish the car were “Check out your Pan-am dude, I think I close. Paddling past spears of orange light the pile, slide into the got some really good shots of you.” thrown from the industrial gravel quarry I enter the next dark cove of the inlet. trough. My back hits “Yeah? Is the tape rolling?” The small wake that piles up on my bow illuminates with white fl ashes. Agitation the pillow; it’s always Taking a break I talk to some of the crowd alarms these phenomenal sparks. How gathered to watch. many had passed below me, in streaming unexpectedly hard, like sun and water, unnoticed? Each stroke someone pushing you “Is it going to get any bigger?” sends whirls of light away from me. I employ my hand into an agitated cluster from behind. I skip What is it that these people want to see ladling out a few to watch them fade. here; then I realize: I’m no less a tourist Floating on a star fi lled sky. Light emitting out onto the green, than them. Hell, that’s why I came—to see from internal sources, whole light, drops it get big. of light, radiating in every direction, I can blinking and shaking only see it partly from my perspective. I’ve What goes on at Skookumchuck? forgotten the wave, the car, dry clothes, the salty water from and burritos. Reluctant to leave. Some boaters describe this phenomenon my face. Digging in a as a spiritual experience. The name left edge I leave foam comes from Chinook Jargon—a language synthesized between the tribes and for green. I extend European traders. The name comes from a rudder stroke and lean into it, scoring the shoulder with my blade. I’m at the top now, looking down at the bowelled-out green water. I release my edge to haul down the face, hop, bounce, air.

18 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 Dylan Davidson surfing the mysterious Skookumchuck Wave

photo by Tanya Shuman

18 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 Exploring Mexico’s Copper Canyon

By Rocky Contos

Getting out to scout, Tom Diegel and I saw that the next rapid consisted of a two-meter sloping falls into a short pool, followed by a six-meter clean vertical drop into a deep, massive emerald pool. They were clearly runnable, even reminiscent of amusement park rides, but we decided to wait until morning to take the plunge, since campsites looked harder to come by downstream.

The place was enchanting. Just downstream, overhanging vertical walls lay only ten meters apart and squeezed the river as it exited the pool. Black streaks of desert varnish were painted on the tan sandstone. Conifers, shrubs, and grasses grew profusely along the canyon sides upstream of the falls. The main riverbed was free of any type of brush, scoured clean by the floods that periodically sweep through. Pine-forest odors mixed with the smells of the tropical thorn forest wafting up the canyon; agaves and cacti were just A view down Barranca del Cobre from a point near Divisadero beginning to make appearances near the river. Canyon wrens solemnly trilled photo by Rocky Contos their characteristic down pitching notes as distant crackling thunder echoed down the gorges. We were still within an open The Barranca del Cobre is close to the US, in another section toward the coast riders bedrock section of the river that coursed yet so far away in the minds of paddlers. have a much more intimate experience around two huge loops known as the Almost nothing has been written about with the canyon country. There the train Incised Meanders. the river and few paddlers have heard passes along Río Septentrión for its entire of it. Say the words “Copper Canyon” length, yielding exquisite views of the We were only four kilometers into our in the right company and you might river and its gorges. Although smaller and seven-day, 135 km journey through the come across someone who knows that steeper, this river looks mostly runnable Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre in it’s deeper than the Grand Canyon or a with innumerable Class IV-V drops, and Spanish), but already we were ecstatic to person with knowledge of the Copper would make any ogling paddler wonder be descending one of the grandest and Canyon Train, which traverses 700 km about the larger river in the nearby famed deepest canyons on the planet. Tempering from Topolobambo by the Sea of Cortéz canyon. So, exactly who has floated Río our enthusiasm was the pitifully low water to the city of Chihuahua in the middle Urique before, and why aren’t hordes of level, and the treacherous high gradient of northern Mexico. Riding the train can paddlers flocking to it? sections downstream where we were be an all-day affair, with multiple stops, certain to encounter unknown numbers including one at Divisadero on the rim According to Tom Robey, author of A of portages. Up to this point, most of what of the Copper Canyon. There, amidst the Gringo’s Guide to Mexican Whitewater, we floated through had been Class II-III, native Tarahumara women selling their John Cross led the first descent of the 41 with the exception of one Class V bedrock colorful woven creations, one can peer km Barranca del Cobre stretch from the falls we had portaged due to the low water. 1300 meters down to the canyon bottom Umirá bridge to the trail that leads up to We settled in for a cool September night and just barely glimpse Río Urique below. Divisadero in 1963. Although their initial just above 1600 m (5200 ft) elevation on Although this is the extent of the train attempt was aborted, they later returned a flat sand beach, I in my tent with a bed rider’s encounter with the Copper Canyon, to finish the trip in inflatable kayaks. In sheet and Tom in his bivy. 20 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 21 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Overview map of the Sierra Madre Occidental (left) and more detailed map of the Copper Canyon area (right). The detailed region is boxed on the left. Rio Urique (pronounced “oo-ree-kay”. “oo” as in “boot”, and accent on “ree”) flows through the Barranca del Cobre and Barranca Urique before joining Rio Fuerte, Kilometers along the river from the Umira bridge are shown in black. Additional gray points along the river are where 100 m contour lines cross the river, and the average gradient between these is indicated in feet per mile (fpm; italicized in gray). Paved and dirt roads are shown in light gray, and the railroad in gray with tick marks.

1971, John Cross led a descent down the drop to 1 cms (30 cfs), or deluges that next 47 km to the town of Urique. Robey’s can push flows up to 200-300 cms (7000- guide also states the geologic nature of 10000 cfs). Although I paddle many rivers the canyon (rhyolite, silicic tuff, and solo, I wanted support and better photo granodiorite), the average gradient of the documentation for this one. My friends various sections and their difficulty: the Tom Diegel and Mike Hobbs had come upper 41 km section to the Divisadero trail down the previous year for a descent of is very difficult (Class V), the middle 47 Río Mezquital (described in American km section to the town of Urique is Class Whitewater July/August 2001) and were IV, and the lower 35 km to the confluence keen to float some more of Mexico’s rios. with Río Fuerte is also Class IV, but easier Tragically, Mike passed away the previous than the upstream section. He cross- winter due to a heart problem. Tom was references Jim Cassidy and Dan Dunlap’s still game, though, and managed to make book, World Whitewater, where the lower it down in early September 2001. Urique is described as having a lengthy portage about ten miles downstream of Tom is one of the best paddling friends Urique at a place called Dos Arroyas [sic]. I can imagine. Born and raised in the Portland, Oregon area and now living in I had been yearning to paddle the river Salt Lake City, he’s a technically competent for years, but realized from the nature Class V kayaker who’s paddled all over of other rivers I knew in the region, the the US and Canada as well as in Chile, descriptions I had read, and the gradient Ecuador, Norway, and India. He’s always of the run (averaging ~30 m/km (>140 excited to do a new run, and undaunted fpm) for the ~12 km past the Incised by the lengthy sections I suggest. He judges Meanders) that it would be extremely rapids well, knows his limits, and portages challenging and dangerous, especially when the danger factor is too high. Tom with the possibility of wildly fluctuating is a great team player, as evidenced on the water levels. These reasons, including the numerous Grand Canyon descents we’ve lack of accurate descriptions, are no doubt done together. On one Canyon trip, we why this canyon has remained relatively had a raft float away in the night; Tom obscure to paddlers. let me sleep in and went in hot pursuit at 4 am, tied up the errant raft five miles Like most of my paddling expeditions in downstream, and ran back up the canyon the Sierra Madre Occidental, I planned in time for breakfast! He’s does all he can to to do this trip sometime during the rainy rescue others on a river, even to the point season summer months. Although mean of endangering himself. I would probably flows at the Umirá Bridge from July to have drowned in a recirculating undercut September are 25 cms (800 cfs), there are eddy below Triple Falls on the Kern if Tom often rainless periods when the flow can had not taken quick action to swim across

20 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 21 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 the river and give me a life-saving hand by descending Arroyo Umirá, arriving running, and many can go more than 100 when I popped up. In 1994 when I met approximately 7 km downstream of the km in a day. Tom on the Kern, he worked at Patagonia, Umirá bridge. From there, they day-hiked where he helped design and produce downstream several kilometers, and Near the end of the following day, after some seminal paddling shoes, which, not then made their way upstream through paddling through innumerable rapids, surprisingly, we were wearing on this trip the Incised Meanders. He had this bleak we peered downstream to see what looked to Mexico. He continues to design gear in account of the river: like an eerie apparition wavering along the the business he currently runs. Since Tom river-left shore just below the next rapid. works in the outdoor industry, he is also Being ardent kayakers, we evaluated After running the Class IV-V drop, which a great resource to connect with others. I the Urique as a potential run. we dubbed Fantasma Falls, we realized the have him to thank for introducing me to All agreed that it would be a technical “ghost” was actually water pouring from a many of my paddling friends. nightmare. The river flows under cave in the wall, about two meters above rocks as much as around them. At river level. Sunlight and wind playing on Arriving in Creel via train from Chihuahua, high water, the river would be ripe the aerated whitewater made it waver and Tom greeted me with a hug and a baritone with undercuts and siphons. flicker like a spirit. “Mumm-blay” (his nickname for me is Portaging would be a logistical Mumbly). After we provisioned our seven- horror show. Not far downstream, we arrived at the day trip, my chauffeur, Neche Chávez, Barranca del Cobre proper, where copper accompanied us in my truck to the put-in We did portage many times in this section, mining took place centuries ago. We at the Umirá bridge. There had been good strenuously lifting our loaded boats wandered up to explore some ruins, finding water levels in local rivers for most of the up and over, sometimes going under a them overgrown with weeds. Around here previous five weeks, but at this point rains boulder, and sometimes ferrying to the trails ascend up ~1000 meters to the rim had ceased, and we were disappointed to other side where portaging would resume. on both sides of the canyon and another find only ~80 cfs in the river (about 10% However, the two kilometer stretch to also continues downriver. At one time, of the mean flow for early September). On Arroyo Umirá wasn’t all portages, and we this trail was part of the historic Camino the bright side, we though, we may not enjoyed running several Class IV-V rapids. Real, on which the silver, gold, and copper necessarily want high flows when going Overall it took us about three hours to get from Batopilas, Barranca del Cobre, through the toughest sections in the first through. Would we call it a “nightmare?” and other mines were hauled up toward few days anyway. We put in late in the Sure. However, as part of a lengthy Chihuahua via Tejabán at the rim. A few afternoon in the rain, and made it to the expedition through this wild chasm, it was of the Tarahumara still mine here, and six-meter falls in a couple of hours. a small entrance fee to pay. have been known to sell their white gold nuggets for life’s essentials. On this trip, we “Wheeeewwooooeee,” Tom exclaimed Below Arroyo Umirá, pool-drop Class IV- saw nobody around, but the small arroyo after hucking the falls. We felt as fortunate V rapids continued for over five kilometers just downstream carried red silty water, as the German archaeologist in Raiders to just past Arroyo Basihaure, where we indicating recent mining activity. After of the Lost Ark when he opened the ark camped on a huge beach. In this section finding another fine beach to camp on, we and said, “It’s beauuu-ti-fullll!” However, we only had a couple of portages due to turned in for the night. The lower gradient just another kilometer past the Incised the low water. About a kilometer upstream and trail along the river downstream were Meanders, the riverbed became clogged of our camp, we filled our water bottles good indicators that we would probably with house-sized boulders and we at what Tom dubbed the “Whiz Wall,” a not encounter many more portages. remembered that shortly after opening the warm spring where a little stream of water ark, the archaeologist summarily found shot horizontally out of a rock wall. From Starting our fourth day in bright sunshine, the angels inside were actually angels camp, I wandered into a cave and noted we found that the canyon had a more open of death! a stick fishing pole left there by a local. feel, and there were many enjoyable Class As Bob Gedekoh comments, this part of III-IV rapids for the 10+ km past Arroyo This section was described previously the river is a difficult place to get to, and Cusárare. This arroyo flows over a scenic by Robert Gedekoh, former editor of doesn’t see many visitors. However, that’s 30-meter falls up on the mesa closer to American Whitewater, who authored a probably not as true for the Tarahumara Creel and is a primary tourist attraction chapter in M. John Fayhee’s book, Mexico’s people who inhabit this region. They are in the area. Past this arroyo confluence, Copper Canyon Country; A Hiking and noted for their foot travel all over the the gradient picked up again, and the walls Backpacking Guide. In the chapter titled, barrancas, spotting trails where others closed in. Huge boulders again cluttered “Umirá Bridge to the Incised Meanders could not and not giving second thoughts the riverbed, and Class V rapids came one of the Urique River,” Bob described a to the sketchy climbs, traverses, or swims after another. four-day backpacking trip at very low that are often necessary for progress. They water where they arrived at Río Urique also are known for their long distance One of the initial Class Vs ended in a

22 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 23 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Tom in a scenic vertical-walled section between Arroyo Cusarare and Arroyo San Ignacio

photo by Rocky Contos

mandatory portage around a sieve. In the fi rst drop of this rapid, I pinned briefl y and handed my paddle to Tom as I pushed myself off with both hands. Tom ended up backward in the second chute, breaking a paddle and fl ipping in the mayhem. He rolled up, but seeing that he was fl oating quickly toward the sieve with a broken paddle, exited the boat and swam to shore. We managed to pull the boat out, but the broken paddle and his valuable camera went under and we never saw them again We spent two more leisurely days paddling several hours on the road for a ride, but to (hence, the lack of exceptionally nice the 46 km down to Urique. It was all no avail. photos to go with this story!). Fortunately, runnable, and generally Class III-IV. We we had a spare paddle, and Tom recovered encountered one exception about 12-15 We settled in to camp on the beach by quickly from his loss and slightly damaged km downstream of Ojo del Cañon in the the town that night, albeit with nerve- ego. This “Disaster Sieve” was followed fun Class IV-V Cañada Calavera section wracked insomnia due to loud voices by two more boulder-choked rapids we (Skull Rock Gorge). The name derives of partying borrachos and fi recrackers, called Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. from a four-meter-high piece of bedrock which went off periodically. At one point, After a few more Class Vs that could have coming out of the river that looks just like some puerile kids lobbed a watermelon at used more water, we fl oated through an a skull staring at the other side of the river. us, which splattered nearby and scared the unmistakable four-meter bedrock sliding At high water, the skull would probably scat out of us. Fortunately, the following falls at the confl uence with the large be drowning, and you’d only see the eye morning Tom found a ride with some Arroyo San Ignacio. This arroyo also sockets and nose. Another six kilometers guys in a truck. I paddled the remaining descends from the mesa by Creel and downstream we approached a dark and stretch of Rio Urique without portaging hosts the soothing Recohuata Hot Springs. scenic high-walled narrows that had us and eventually hitched a ride back up to As we later learned, the springs are more shivering at the sight of house-boulders, Creel, up the tortuous roads, arriving only easily accessed from the mesa than from which seemed to clog the way. Fortunately, to fi nd the World Trade Centers topple the river. we found a paddling route through a on 9/11. cave underneath one of the boulders, We continued down some Class II-III to a and though this route probably wouldn’t Would I go back and fl oat the Copper beach by one of the arroyos that descend be available at normal summer fl ows, I Canyon again? You bet! Preferably with from Divisadero. It was only lunchtime, verifi ed that portaging up and over on the a healthier water level, and with time to but we decided to camp there and spend right would be possible. do many of the hikes that I missed on the rest of the day ascending to the rim, this trip. Overall, this is a stretch of river about 10 km and 1300 meters up a trail At the town of Urique, we beached near that should defi nitely be on paddlers’ above our camp. Hiking up the arroyo was a fl irtatious local named Rosa, who was to-do lists. The drivable proximity to the pleasant, with a clear stream of cool water swimming in the rio. Another friendly US, challenging rapids, canyon grandeur, gurgling over rocks beneath a canopy resident watched our boats as we enjoyed astounding side hikes, and wild solitude of trees. We saw tadpoles and small fi sh a celebratory meal of pollo, tortillas and make it an excellent choice for a summer scuttering in the limpid pools as we beans in one of the local restaurants. Tom adventure. I look forward to the day climbed up various falls. In one pool we wasn’t too thrilled about continuing on when more than a few kayakers have took a refreshing swim, cooling off from the river down to Río Fuerte and then experienced the magical qualities of this the 90-degree heat. Unfortunately, after across 50 km of reservoir to the train profound defi le in the earth. two hours we still hadn’t found the trail station, so he looked into getting back to and eventually came to a high 20-meter Creel from Urique. Since it was a holiday For additional information, visit falls that was too sketchy to ascend, so in the town (Fiesta de la Virgen), the bus www.sierrarios.org or e-mail the author were forced to turn back. wasn’t running, compelling Tom to spend ([email protected]).

22 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org Americancontinued Whitewater on page 67 23 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Editor’s Note: When I What will become started kayaking there was of Freestyle? Risa in the freestyle groove no such thing as “freestyle” Risa Shimoda photo by John Clements in whitewater paddlesports. That depends. Occasionally you would stop at prescribed playspots to catch As a discipline or area of expertise, • Products that both allow more paddlers perception and participation will depend to find a playboat that fits, and offer river- an ender or sidesurf, but that on whether or not participants, including running boats that incorporate many spectators at an event, understand freestyle capabilities. was really just “playing”— freestyle and think it is fun and exciting. something a child would do. For those at the helm (including land • Videos, online tutorials and grassroots or managers, municipalities, event producers retailer-based clinics taught by paddling No one I paddled with at and manufacturers or service providers experts that maintain accessibility the time ever took play very promoting athletes and products), this to the pros, new techniques and means a responsibility to help create promoted products. seriously. Perhaps that’s the opportunities for the masses of paddlers biggest difference between who have not yet converted to the sport, The not-so-good news is that the technical and a need to help newcomers understand prowess of today’s elite athletes is so far now and then. Maybe giving it some basic realities of whitewater from attainability for average paddlers paddlesports. that freestyle promoters must manage a cool name that conjures up risk—the risk of elitism and irrelevance. snowboarders throwing inverts Whitewater courses and parks, designed Many unschooled spectators of freestyle for easy access and a friendly paddling can tell that a paddler is doing a hard move in a half-pipe has given freestyle environment, are providing ever is if he/she gets big air, does something kayaking and canoeing the more exposure for freestyle play and that looks complex or elicits cheers from competition. There are three dozen or his/her competitors. They might find the street cred that makes it what more in the ground or on their way toward moves and grace of these professional it is today. Or maybe it’s the construction in the US. They range wildly athletes demoralizing because they realize from modest one-drop, 100 cfs (peak flow) that they will never be able to attain the huge advances in boat design, venue in Breckenridge, Colorado and the same level of sophistication in the sport. super friendly, low-key park in Salida, paddling technique and the Colorado, to the sophisticated engineering The good news is that this risk can be advent of park ‘n play boating phenoms at the Upper Ocoee’s Olympic turned into exciting opportunity when the course (TN), the Adventure Sports Center moves and techniques these paddlers have that’s made the difference. International in western Maryland and the developed are exposed, taught in classes Whatever you attribute it to, super park at the US National Whitewater and clinics, are the subject of articles and Training Center in Charlotte, North depicted in video and at competition as there’s no denying that the Carolina. They are each (or soon will be) fun, not edgy. evolution from ender to air bringing whitewater access to town, ready to sample for those who are cramped for In addition, knowledgeable competition loop has been dramatic. Since time and will never have the desire to announcers, authors and video producers we at the AW Journal don’t feel chase rain. who explain what is being performed, make freestyle friendly. Seeing a colorful entirely qualified to tackle this Those who will advance the personality of boat powered by a skilled, yet down-to- the sport include: earth (i.e., doesn’t make me feel guilty for topic, we decided to ask not having been to the Nile, Ecuador or some people who are • Event producers who are bringing Nepal lately) paddler never fails to makes freestyle (and whitewater sports in newcomers (and even me!) want to learn eminently qualified. general) to the public. and have fun with freestyle paddling.

24 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 24 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 I started paddling in a boat that was designed with a one-size- Pretty much everything has fi ts-all mentality. The boat I paddled was the same one used changed since I fi rst started by a 300-pound guy and 70-pound kid. Now the market has discovered the necessity of not only boats for different purposes kayaking in 1995. From boat design and levels, but also boats for different body sizes and shapes. We have boats that are made specifi cally for creeking, river running, to competition to the exposure and and freestyle. And within freestyle designs some boats are more geared to waves and some more to holes. Even better, today there emphasis of the sport—the best are boats designed for all levels—for the beginners just learning to roll and for the advanced pros who are trying to push the part is everything has changed to envelop of freestyle kayaking. Most importantly, sizes … we now have kids boats, big/tall guy boats, and boats specifi cally made for my favor. me, a woman. Love it!! by Tanya Shuman

26 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 As for competition, there really aren’t very many these days. The joy and camaraderie between paddlers was phenomenal. In design of boats has caused freestyle to move away from holes and the future I hope to see a circuit that encompasses waves as onto waves and it’s hard to find a venue that really depicts the well as a platform for young kids to compete—a junior and new advanced freestyle moves. Yes, you have competitions like collegiate league. Teva Mountain Games and the Reno River Festival but freestyle kayaking is happening on waves now and the paddlers pushing I foresee two series forming: one will be a World Cup series which the sport are performing on big waves not in holes. will be held on waves, and another will involve man-made courses throughout North America, like Reno and Vail. I would hope for Back in the Golden Age of Kayaking, there was a posse of a World Cup series on waves to emphasize the progression and paddlers—a big family—that traveled throughout North America level of freestyle kayaking and show where the new moves are competing at different hole-oriented venues each weekend. The going. The circuit on man-made courses would have more of a circuit started in April on the West Coast and ended in October festival atmosphere and would bring more people into the sport on the Ocoee River in Tennessee. The competition was run by with a competitive circuit for juniors and newcomers to showcase American Whitewater and funded by sponsors like Teva. The their skills.

Tanya Shuman surfing the Winnepeg Wave

Photo by Marlow Long

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 27 July/August 2006 by Andrew Holcomb ends in a hole. Furthermore, the focus of Andrew Holcombe going for broke on the Garberator First off, I think it is important to freestyle is on waves and the moves being Wave (full) ; freestyling off the water too (above) recognize that the nature of freestyle done there. Because so few competitions Photos by Tanya Shuman and Jenning Steger competition hasn’t changed that much. are held on waves, the participation in Competition, at its heart, is still just that: freestyle competitions has dropped. a competition. At its basic level, it is still paddlers competing and being judged on As a result of these factors, the focus of All these elements could combine to re- the moves they do against everyone else. playboating has shifted from competition ignite the interest in competition again to big wave surfing. Will competition be … or it might not. That’s the bottom line; What have changed are the moves, the able to shift to reflect this change in the competition hasn’t changed. The focus of focus, and the drive. For the last couple future? I think so. The judging system is playboaters and the public has changed of years, competition has not been the catching up to the moves, there are a few and if we want competition to regain its driving force behind freestyle. What I competitions on waves—it’s a positive footing then it has to reflect this change mean is that competitors no longer have sign that Worlds of 2007 is all set to be of focus. as much interest in throwing unlimited held on a wave. 28 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 29 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 by Clay Wright

Freestyle kayaking advances really made kayaking the sport for me. I fi rst paddled the Ocoee in a fi berglass “Klepper Minor” in 1979. By the time I was in high school, I was digging my short little Dancer, and then totally awe-struck by my “Phoenix Arc” early squirt design. How could you not be inspired to paddle at every opportunity when each sum- mer we were fi nding new tricks or new places to do old tricks? Just as tackling the Tellico became old hat, the Arc showed me a whole new world of possibilities to be had, from double-enders at Bounce Off Boulder to meltdowns off Baby Falls and stern-squirts on every eddy line. The river, which was becoming grey to me in my Dancer, was suddenly re-invented in Technicolor.

I took squirt boating down into the Shred Bigfoot era, then jumped back into creek boating just as the Freefall redefi ned “steep” and “technical” creeking. But from those days in squirting, the creeks offered up lots more than just boofs. By the time the Micro 230 came out, we were rock spinning, looping, splatting, and surfi ng down every river we paddled. Each river became a fairgrounds. And the fair offered new rides every couple of years as the free- style boats shrunk towards squirt, then added planing hulls, then puffed back up into spuds with slicey ends.

Where will it go next? Everywhere, if this “generation next” has half the passion we did. I can’t wait to see what they come up with. There is a lot more to the future of freestyle kayaking than just big waves and big waterfalls … and it’s all just swirling around out there, eagerly awaiting the right mind to come along and discover it.

Clay Wright free-forming off Bald River Falls (right) and soul surfi ng (above)

Photo by Kristine Jackson and Chris Emerick

28 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 29 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Video Tips from the Pros

John Grace filming on a zip line above Gorilla and infamous “Notch” as Toby McDermott Rides the Lighting

Photo by Nate Elliott

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 31 July/August 2006 From Footage to Finished Film

By John Grace

So you have the camera, all your friends 512 MB of RAM. The more computing called scripting); and always start with are doing retarded stunts in their kayaks power you have the quicker the editing your audio track first and build the video and you are building a healthy library of process will become. around it. mini DV tapes. Now you want to put it all together and see if you can make the cut Now you have to get your video from your Film production requires a lot of for the next LVM Top Shelf Film. How do tapes to your computer. This process is time-consuming work, but can also you get from here to there? called capturing. Capturing is a feature be very rewarding. With today’s of your editing software that takes the technology, anyone can produce a decent The first thing you need is an editing data from your tape and stores it on quality product with minimal monetary platform. By this I mean an editing your computer as a digital file. It is time investment. My best advice is to give it program and a computer to run it on. consuming and there are a couple of a shot and see if you enjoy the work. If There are many program options out different ways to go about it, but overall you do, try to pursue some type of formal there but if you want the best quality for it is a simple process. The most important training to expand your skills. Even if the best price, two programs stand out. If part of capturing is organizing your clips you don’t love it, you will always have you own a Mac, Final Cut Pro is your best so you know what they are and where they something you can look back on and bet. If you have a PC, Vegas Video will be are stored on your computer. say to yourself, “Man, my friends were a your program of choice. I have used both, bunch of idiots!” See you on the river. and each has its pros and cons. As for the Now it is time to start editing. The process computer, it is important to understand has many steps, ranging from graphic that editing video is processor- and development all the way to the finished memory-intensive. Most of today’s newer product, and each step takes time to computers have the power necessary to learn. Everyone who tries their hand edit video, but if your computer is more at editing will find their own strengths than five years old it will more than likely and weaknesses. The two golden rules of be useless as a video editor. As a general editing are: write down on paper what rule you need a 2 gig processor and at least you want to show on the video (this is

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 31 July/August 2006 Photo Tips from the Pros

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 33 July/August 2006 Still Photography Tips

By Nikki Kelly

I will always remember this valuable quote Vary your angles: get high up—a bird’s eye from Shelley Furrer, owner of Werner view is all good—or, to make rapids look paddles: “It’s about being out there in the big, set up down low, at the bottom of right places.” She meant that if you are on the drop. the river amongst the action you are going to get good shots. Digital photography My quality camera sat at home for the first two years of my paddling career before makes learning very I felt comfortable doing two things at once—meaning I felt challenged enough quick, because you just making my way down river. So don’t rush to take photos; sooner or later the can assess the quality time will be right to add photography to of you photos your journey down stream. The nice thing about photography is that looking for straight away. photo opportunities makes you slow down and take in more of your surroundings. I am envious of slide photographers, because slides produce the best quality, but I still do One of the classic photography (and not practice enough to trust myself with video) rules of composition is the Rule slide film. of Thirds. I’ve heard it explained (with a math equation!) as the most appealing Especially with new, fancy digital cameras, setup to the human eye. Basically, you it’s easy to use a pre-set or semi-automatic want to focus your subject (in this case, setting—don’t. Learn exposure and usually a boater) not in the middle of aperture combinations; don’t sit on the the picture, but at the intersection of automatic setting—it doesn’t work so well imaginary lines that divide your picture for whitewater anyhow. Experiment…. into thirds horizontally and vertically. Whatever the reasons, the Rule of Thirds Take the plunge; carabineer the camera to is a good tip for making balanced photos. your boat (between the legs is my favorite) For beginning whitewater photographers, and get out there. a good way to start using the Rule of Thirds is to think: a third scenery, a third Ask knowledgeable people questions, boater, a third whitewater. always learn more and never think you have it sussed. Be critical of your photos, My own style wavers towards more ask questions, always try to improve, scenery. I get a lot of shots with lots of the but at the same time, remember to give environment and just a tiny kayaker. What yourself credit. I need to do is to share scenery shots with close ups, so I try getting shots with the Enjoy capturing the memories. kayak taking up a lot of the photo. Face shots are nice but I don’t manage a lot of them. If you feel the same way about your photos, get close to the drop—wherever you think the kayaker will make a dynamic move.

Tanya Faux, Onot River Siberia, Boofing Bitch Falls

Photo by Nikki Kelly

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 33 July/August 2006 by Johnnie Kern

When I fi rst started taking pictures of ever call myself any kind of professional picture of . . . what is the subject here? I try to whitewater, I loved it but I hated it. I hated it photographer. I have never had any formal imagine how the fi nished image is composed because I got back from my fi rst few big trips training and have thrown away thousands of in my head before I ever take a picture. The with a camera and the grim reality set in . . terrible pictures. I have a few things that I try exact framing matters because it will help . a majority of the river shots were terribly to keep in mind when I am taking pictures of you determine what should be included and over-exposed. I was confused since most of people kayaking and hopefully a tip or two often more importantly, what can be left out. the scenic shots were fi ne, but when I looked here might be helpful to at least one person through the pictures that I had taken on the who reads this. river, I was consistently disappointed. The thing that bummed me out about most of The fi rst thing that I always remember is my early river pictures was that the water to bring lots of fi lm or memory since the looked too bright and didn’t have any detail more you shoot, the more you learn and the in them. Whitewater is obviously called better your odds are of coming home with WHITEwater for a reason . . . ahh yeah, it something worthwhile. My motto is when looks pretty white most of the time and in doubt, hammer on that shutter release was looking way too white in my pictures. button. The simple fact is that it is hard to expose pictures of whitewater properly. It is hard The second thing that I always try to ask because that white is always so damn white. myself . . . (and it always annoyed me when I have learned a lot over the last several years it was someone else’s advice to me, but I un- and just so you know, would by no means derstand now) . . . is what exactly do I want a

Photo A (Photo B is inset)

Photos by Johnnie Kern

34 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006

DeLaVernge

Daniel March 5, 1977 - March 8, 2007

34 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org words by Clay Wright - photo by Johnnie Kern July/August 2006

to dream of what it could be. continuingwhile is it what sport our make that people the support you as Daniel Remember creations.his support you as Daniel Remember Video Magazine, under their new management. Lunch and Productions Penstock business, his through continue will AW for support Daniel’s American Whitewater. was He of dreams and goals the avidsupporter an also exploits. LVM-documented it’s and TDub of member key a was Daniel dream, the fund to necessary sponsorships the soliciting or logistics, fiout scout, guring gorge the up for bucking supplies, extra carrying Whether importance the understood of support. fully Daniel in recent history. As an avid and expedition kayaker, magazine AW every about just friend to contributor close and advisor advertiser, an was kayaker, our fellow DeLaVergne Daniel words by Clay Wright - photo by Kern Johnnie

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 39 July/August 2006 www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 39 July/August 2006 The light in river environments makes taking pictures are of the same basic thing, but tell to hell. Some do and I respect them, but a properly exposed picture even more com- different stories. You have to make choices I’m here to take and look at good pictures plicated because it is often shady deep down and Photo A decides to sacrifice detail at the and if I can improve an image by knowing in the canyon or maybe the trees are block- bottom of the falls in order to capture the what technologies I have available later on . ing the light that you want on your subject. whole setting . . . the entire place. In Photo . . then I will. I also try to increase my odds Squint your eyes and take a look around . . B you can see more detail in the water below of coming back with a winner by bracketing . What’s bright? Where is most of the light the falls, but since it was exposed for the whenever possible. On most decent cameras coming from or what is it reflecting off? WHITEwater and cameras are not as good you can adjust your settings to take three What is dark? Is there any place in your ideal as the human eye at picking up all the subtle- pictures instead of one. One shot would be frame where light and dark are next to each ties, you will lose any detail in the cliff next with the proper exposure, the next a third or other? These initial observations are crucial to the falls. So, if you take the time to ask half stop over-exposed and the last a third or in deciding what the final frame should look yourself what is the most important thing half stop under-exposed. Like I said earlier, like and how you should expose. here . . . what am I really trying to take a the more pictures you take the better your picture of, you’ll have a better idea of how to chances are, right? Take these two pictures of action figure John expose that specific picture properly. Grace running a healthy 60 footer in Mexico. So yeah, I guess I’d remind every one out Both pictures are taken on the same day of A third thing that has helped me expose there that taking properly exposed pictures the same spine risking descent. Photo A is properly when shooting whitewater on a of whitewater is not necessarily easy. My framed and exposed with more emphasis sunny day . . . I shoot a third of a stop under best advice would be to take a close, dis- on the setting, specifically pulled back to and then plan on bumping it up (add more criminating look at what you want to see in include the rainbow and the cool green moss light) slightly in post-processing. Now I am the final image and compose your picture on the cliffs. Photo B on the other hand is not what some might call a traditionalist and adjust exposure accordingly. Figure out zoomed in, exposed (spot metered) to reveal . . . I do not believe if you use Photoshop what you want to see or remember when you the detail in the water and place emphasis on or any other software to organize or post- get home- what’s important- and expose af- John and how silly he is. The two different process your images, that you should go ter you’ve decided what the picture will be.

40 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 40 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 Professional Video Tools your equipment needs. So invest in a video standard on most cameras, but as your camera that will allow your technique skills develop so will your interest in and Techniques to evolve. having “Manual” controls that will allow you to fine-tune your footage qualities. By Ammen Jordan Look for a video camera that has a 1/6- inch or larger CCD (Charged Coupling That said, there are several general camera As video cameras become more compact Device—a digital camera’s light sensor) techniques, including “The Rule of and more affordable, it is becoming with a minimum of 340,000-pixel Thirds,” “Angles,” and “Lead Room,” that more and more common to see them on resolution. If you have an interest in most would agree make for more quality the river. And, with modern computer publishing your work, look into three-chip footage. technology, it is becoming ever more (3-CCD) video cameras. Though slightly feasible to edit and produce paddlesport more expensive, 3-CCD cameras generally The Rule of Thirds is the most important videos. have a higher resolution (690,000-pixels or principle of good composition. To practice more), which results in richer colors and this, imagine a tick-tack-toe pattern There are a ton of video cameras on the better low-light sensitivity. But, regardless over your viewfinder that creates four market, and though some may seem of the camera you have, there are ways to intersection points. Place your subject attractive due to price or size, carefully utilize the settings to maximize the quality where the lines intersect, instead of in the compare your options to learn their of your footage. center of the frame. Putting the subject specific strengths and weaknesses with off-center often makes the composition regards to resolution, settings, and white Initially you will probably find it more dynamic and interesting. Remember, balance. Remember, as your skills and convenient to use the “Automatic” the most important part of the shot (the interests as a videographer change, so will exposure and focus settings, which are person, playspot or kayak) should not be

42 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 43 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 centered in the frame. from a high point so you’re above the remember to introduce your location action. and perhaps tell why you are there and Remember also to be aware of the action. what you are doing. This helps later if you Always allow a little space between Also, combine a variety of shots including want to log your footage, find that certain your subject’s head, or the river action, wide (river and surrounding scenery), shot, compile a trip report, or produce a and the top of the frame. This is called medium (whole boat and paddler), and travelogue. “head room.” close-up shots (details, spray from the boat, whites of their eyes). It is also good Remember that video is an art form and And, when you’re filming a moving to practice zooming between different what looks good to you is all that matters. subject, always allow some extra space shots so that you can avoid jerky motions, So, above all, have fun with the camera, in front of it as it moves forward. This is which make the shot look homemade. find your own personal shooting style called “lead room.” and work to develop it. Try to stick to the Here are some techniques you can use rule of thirds for good composition, but Another good technique is to shoot from on the river to help you keep your sanity remember: what you shoot, and how you different angles. Changing angles provides when it comes time to edit: Always include shoot it, depends on your style. Like in life a fresh perspective, and makes for more narration—you won’t believe how much and in paddling, the more you put into interesting footage. Try kneeling, or you can forget between shooting and videography, the better the result! putting the camera on the ground; film editing. At the beginning of every shot,

42 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 43 July/August 2006 July/August 2006

Top U.S. Whitewater Cities

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 47 July/August 2006 of Swannanoa about four miles east of the The classic Green Narrows boasts over 200 Asheville, Asheville city limits. days a year of solid Class IV-V rapids in a North Carolina remote and beautiful gorge just minutes When you start to think about paddling in from Highway 26. By Christie Dobson and Dixie Marree Prickett the greater Asheville region, the first thing you should do is pick up a copy of Leland The resident paddling community in Davis’ North Carolina Rivers and Creeks Asheville is something to note as well. Asheville is a hip, guidebook. This book is the “tell-all” guide You have kayak legends and boat builders to running any level of whitewater in the living here, like Shane Benedict and cultural, mountain region. Within a short drive of Asheville Woody Calloway (both R&D Specialists at town that is located there is a ton of Class II-V whitewater Liquidlogic Kayaks) and Robert Pearson that is easy to access and runs year-round. of Wavesport. Filmmaker John Grace at the confluence of the Swannanoa and French Broach Rivers. Its weather is typically cooler than the rest of the southeastern U.S. due to its elevation. With rainfall typically between 80 and 100 inches per year and mountains over 6,000 feet, western North Carolina has arguably the best whitewater in the United States. Asheville is a busy little city with a fairly low cost of living. While you’re waiting for the rains to kick in, there are 70,400 people to get to know, according to the 2004 Census. The town has been listed in various magazines, including Rolling Stone and has been voted as one of the top 10 places to live. The open and accepting character of the city is evidenced by the many lifestyles and beliefs that coexist peacefully here. The art and music scenes are especially active and Asheville has become a Mecca for potters, painters, musicians and outdoor enthusiasts. Other specialties can be found in the mountains, including some good ol’ fashioned moonshine.

Asheville is home to the University of North Carolina at Asheville, a liberal arts college of about 3500 students in North Asheville. Asheville is also home to Warren Wilson College, located in the community

www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 47 July/August 2006 Asheville, North Carolina

lives in town in between expeditions with Earthfare and Greenlife, you can shop for friendly, $1 PBRs, Margaritas available, North Carolina legend Al Gregory (aka a meal or a week. If eating out is more your free parking, $4-8 Green River Al or just Al G). Waterfall thing, check out this list of our favorite Doc Cheys – Chinese-Asia style food with seeker Pat Keller grew up on the rivers of restaurants: good ambiance, full bar, veggie friendly Asheville and other extreme kayakers like and always hopping, $6-8 Buffy Bailey Burge, Andrew Holcombe Mamacitas – Mexican burrito shop, Salsas – Cribbean-Mexican style, really and Tommy Hilleke call Asheville their excellent but cheap fresh food, veggie unusual but good dishes, very fresh, small home. There is a great representation of influential whitewater women living in Asheville as well, including Yoga for Paddlers, Andria Baldovin; Girls at Play producer, Anna Levesque; World Class Academy’s principal, Whitney Lonsdale; Maria Noakes of Needmore Adventures from Bryson City; and local girls Katie Hilleke, Jennifer Cribbs and Molly Malone who are always looking for a fun float on the French Broad or a raging trip down the Green.

No matter what your skill level is, Asheville has something to offer. Most of the runs are rain dependent, so knowing how to use the gauges is critical to getting on a good river. The outfitters in town know the gauges and often post them in their stores. Diamond Brand and Black Dome can let you know what’s running as well as having all the gear you’ll ever need (don’t forget the guidebook!).

Within an hour and a half you can reach the following Class III runs: Pigeon French Broad Lower Green Nolichucky

If you like some good hearty Class IV, some of our favorites are: Big Creek Watauga Nolichucky (at high water)

If Class V is your forte, favorites of the local extreme crowd are: Linville Raven’s Fork Green River Narrows Toxaway

After the day is done, you can hear great music at the Orange Peel Social Club most every night. Hungry? Asheville is a great place to find good healthy food. With two big natural food stores in town,

48 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 49 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 place, good atomosphere, veggie friendly, beer, margaritas, mojitos, $10-20 Jack of the Wood – bar food, tons and tons of beer (micros), full bar, sandwiches, good burgers, $5-12 Five Points – diner / grill, mainly for breakfast, super cheap, $3-6 Thai Express – Thai / Asia food, in West Asheville, good food, big servings, not in downtown, $5-10 Zambras – Tapas bar with great food, light meals and great drinks, more upscale but casual, great atmosphere, $10-30 Old Europe – coffee and dessert, really good and all homemade, full coffee bar, small place with cozy atmosphere, $3-10

All of these runs are within two hours of Asheville. The Gauley is only three and a half hours away.

NF French Broad WF French Broad EF French Broad Eastoe Creek Tucker Creek Upper North Fork Looking Glass Creek Davidson River Courthouse Creek Catawba NF Catawba EF Doe Doe Big East Fork Little East Fork WF Pigeon Middle Prong of West Fork Wilson Creek Linville River Watauga River Elk River Pigeon River Big Creek Hurricane Creek Whitewater Horsepasture River Toxaway River Above: John Pilson on Lower Big Creek Tuckaseegee Occonoluffnee Photo by North Carolina Rivers & Creeks Bear Creek Silver Fork West Prong

North Carolina River & Creeks by Leland Davis available at NCCreeks.com Christie Dobson is Werner Paddle’s Marketing Man- ager and Dixie Marree Prickett is a rep for Patagonia. Both ladies live in Asheville, North Carolina and fre- quent the Appalachain rivers and creeks that surround their home. They can often be found (together) on the Green River, their favorite local run. 48 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 49 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Premium Whitewater in the Nation’s Capital

By Steve Schaefer

Washington offers residents the amenities or Salvadorian, Afghani or Indian you’ll It is still dark at 5 am and benefits associated with living in a find what you are looking for to satisfy large east coast city. It offers a booming your taste buds. One of our favorite on a Wednesday as Eric economy, a lively entertainment scene, and stops after an afternoon on the Potomac pulls into the gravel an extensive assortment of dining options. is Cactus Cantina, where weary paddlers But what sets DC apart from other cities as can find a few margaritas and some good parking lot at Angler’s a great place to live is the excellent access Mexican food. To help navigate through to year round premium whitewater. the huge list of restaurants in DC, consider Inn, Maryland. As he buying a restaurant guidebook like Zagat, drives down to the As the nation’s capital, the District draws which lists and ranks all the restaurants by a diverse group of people, businesses, and cuisine and other helpful categories. lower parking lot, the organizations that provide a vast array of competitive employment opportunities. A strong job market with plenty of diverse headlights of his jeep The unemployment rate for the entertainment and dining options help metropolitan area has remained under make Washington a great place to live, illuminate zombie- the national average with many counties but it is the access to year round premium like figures loading in Virginia and Maryland enjoying whitewater that will attract the paddler to unemployment rates below 3%. The cost the DC Metropolitan Area. The Potomac boats and gear. By 5: of living continues to rise, but appears River is big and broad as it runs along reasonable when compared to other east the southern border of DC. While it is a 30 these zombies will coast cities. Low unemployment and hotbed of activity for rowing teams, sea competitive salaries help offset the high kayakers, and motorboats it provides little be transformed into cost of living and leaves residents with interest to the whitewater enthusiast. The energized kayakers enough extra cash to enjoy entertainment, placidity of the Potomac in DC gives no dining, and boating. indication of the whitewater challenges doing cartwheels and and beauty that will reward the individual The bustling entertainment industry who ventures a few miles upstream. enders on the Chutes showcases seemingly endless options for of the Potomac at music, sports and the arts. Music venues In approximately a ten-mile stretch of include intimate blues and jazz clubs on the Potomac from Great Falls to Little sunrise. After a couple U Street, dance clubs in Dupont Circle, Falls the river has something to offer the National Symphony Orchestra at the each whitewater paddler regardless of of hours of surfing Eric Kennedy Center, and almost everything interest or skill level. This section of the in between. With the myriad collegiate Potomac begins with the impressive and is off to work, ready and professional athletic teams within the intimidating Great Falls (Class V+) then to tackle another day metropolitan area there is an enormous flows through Mather Gorge (Class I-IV) selection of top-notch spectator sports and on past several access points to the lobbying on Capitol to choose from all year. And DC is a river before culminating at Little Falls premier city for the arts with a throngs (Class II-IV) and ending in the tidal Hill. Scenarios like of museums, galleries, and theatres, the Potomac. Typically, paddlers don’t run centerpiece being the museums that the entire ten miles, but instead utilize this occur regularly comprise the Smithsonian Institution. the many put-in and take-out options to on a ten-mile stretch customize their trip. Choices of restaurants in the city are almost of the Potomac River as plentiful and diverse as the DC residents In the three decades since Tom McEwan, themselves. Diners enjoy cuisines from the Wick Walker and Dan Schnurrenberger just upstream from four corners of the world, with prices made the inaugural run down the majestic Washington, DC ranging from dirt cheap to incredibly and unforgiving Great Falls, the Falls have expensive. Whether it is Malaysian or lured thousands of top paddlers from (population 572,000). Korean, Ethiopian or Moroccan, Brazilian around the country to test their mettle on

50 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 Time to skip out for a park n’ play session on the Potomac and be back before the filibuster’s over

Photo by Bobbette Schaefer

50 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org July/August 2006 what are considered the steepest and most as well as the guidelines for running the and play spots on the Potomac. A few of spectacular fall line rapids of any eastern falls. Unfortunately, Great Falls has been the abundant play spots present park n’ river. The falls, which drop about 76 feet the scene of two kayaker fatalities in play options including O-Deck, Rocky in less than half a mile, are so beautiful and recent years. Great Falls is merciless to the Island, and the Chutes which is at the end awe inspiring that they attract millions of paddler who finds herself off line, so it is of Mather Gorge. The Chutes, the main visitors each year to the observation decks critical that any individual considering a play spot on the Potomac River, is the of Great Falls National Park, Virginia and run down the falls accurately assesses all home to the Maryland Chute-Out, a series the C & O Canal National Historic Park, perils presented by the rapid as well as of freestyle competitions held the last Great Falls Area, Maryland. Numerous their ability to avoid these hazards. Thursday of the month from April through lines have been run through the falls, each September. After the Chutes, the Potomac offering their own unique way to punish, Below Great Falls, paddlers are in for eases up a bit while still providing some pummel, bruise or break the unwary a treat as they enter the sheer cliffs of good surfing and squirting opportunities paddler. Any paddler considering a run Mather Gorge (Class I – IV). The gorge on down to the Lock 10 take-out. down Great Falls should first familiarize itself is only about two miles long, but herself with the various dangers presented it is the most popular and busiest part From Lock 10 to Lock 6 the Potomac is of the Potomac for whitewater paddling. mostly flat water with a deadly river-wide Besides challenging the intermediate river low head dam thrown in for good measure. DC boaters have a variety of whitewater in runner with surging and boiling eddies, Consequently, this section of the river is their backyards strong crosscurrents, and big waves, the not frequently paddled. Most paddlers gorge also offers some of the best squirt running Great Falls or Mather Gorge will Photo by Bobbette Schaefer

52 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 53 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 take out at Lock 10 or at one of the many As you make your fi rst run through night. This year’s festival is scheduled for access points further upstream, while Mather’s Gorge you will get a glimpse July 15 and 16. those interested in running Little Falls of how much Washingtonians enjoy generally access the Potomac from Locks their outdoors. You’ll share the towpath When weighing options on where to 5 or 6. Individuals who decide to run this with cyclists, joggers, hikers, fi shermen, live, we’re usually left with balancing section of the river need to stay alert for the picnickers, and wildlife. Although you’re between an urban lifestyle or enjoying upcoming dam and must portage around only a few miles from DC, it is a rare day the benefi ts of the great outdoors. it. Several paddlers, apparently unaware of on the water when you don’t happen upon Fortunately, for those of us who have the dangers presented by the dam, have a great blue heron, eagle or deer. Now that ended up in the DC metro area we’ve perished here in past years. News reports you are in the gorge don’t be surprised found the best of both worlds. For year indicate that a raft remained stuck in the if you are not alone. Besides the other round accessible whitewater close to a hydraulic below the dam for over a week boaters, you may be sharing the gorge with major city center, the Potomac River and before being removed by boaters … not a hikers enjoying the trails that run along DC are unmatched in the United States. place you want to be. the top of the gorge while rock climbers Washington has a booming economy with work the gorge walls. low unemployment, plenty to keep you Just below the low head dam paddlers entertained and enough restaurants to enjoy nice Class II–III wave trains and Those willing to brave the winter cold may keep you well fed. I have merely scratched surf waves that lead up to Little Falls rapid want to check out the artifi cial whitewater the surface in describing the city and the (Class II–IV). This is the last signifi cant course at the Mirant Power Plant in Potomac. To get the full picture, you’ll drop on the Potomac before the river Dickerson, Maryland about 45 minutes need to become a local yourself. fl attens out along the DC border on its from the District. The whitewater course way to the Chesapeake Bay. The diffi culty provides paddlers with a little respite of this rapid is not only determined by from the cold; the water in the course the water level and chosen line but also comes through the power plant where it by the tides as the rapid dumps into the is warmed by the coal-fi red generators tidal Potomac. before leaving the outfl ow canal at the top of the course. The turbulent eddys Lock 6 is the most popular spot to access and sticky holes are also used as a training Little Falls and it also happens to be the ground for whitewater slalom racers and location of a whitewater slalom course. to prepare river runners for challenging The slalom course is on the feeder canal, rivers like the Upper Youghiogheny and which is directly below the low head dam Big Sandy (Class IV+, about three to three on river left. This is an excellent training and a half hours from DC). To utilize the ground for the horde of competitive racers Dickerson Whitewater course you must who call DC home and is a great place register with the Bethesda Center of for novice and intermediate paddlers to Excellence, which oversees and manages develop their skills and build confi dence. access to the site.

The majority of paddlers access the Every year the robust paddling community Potomac from Maryland. There are gathers to showcase the grandeur of the at least seven commonly used access Potomac River at the Potomac Whitewater points for the Potomac in Maryland. Festival. The festival hosts numerous races All of these access areas provide ample and events, the grand daddy of them all free parking, with the exception of the being the Great Falls Race that kicks off two National Parks at Great Falls, which the festival. Spectators on the observation charge entrance fees. The Maryland side decks are treated to impressive displays of the Potomac also provides the paddler of skill, speed, and courage, as some of with access to the C&O Canal that runs the top kayakers in the country appear to alongside the Potomac for 184.5 miles effortlessly navigate the various terminal from Georgetown, DC to Cumberland, obstacles encountered on the way down Maryland. By taking advantage of the the regal falls. In addition to the Great canal, several sections of the Potomac can Falls Race the festival also hosts squirt and be run without need of a shuttle. Simply freestyle competitions, as well as slalom, complete a loop by way of the river, canal attainment and down river races. And and the accompanying gravel towpath. no festival would be complete without an awards ceremony and party on Saturday

52 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 53 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Chico/Oroville, California

By Dave Steindorf

Ten years ago it was unlikely that northern an amazing spectacle for any who have runs listed here are extremely high quality California cities Chico or Oroville would ventured through these canyons. However, and, best of all, they’re less than an hour have popped up on a list of great paddling these are only two of many jewels in and a half from Chico or Oroville! towns. Chico was known as home to one of the crown. the best party schools in the country and With gas at three bucks a gallon maybe Oroville was on the map mostly for having Only a stone’s throw away is the North an hour and a half is too far to drive. the tallest dam in the US in its backyard. Fork Yuba with the classic Goodyear’s Need something a little closer to home? Beer bongs and big dams are not typically Bar run (Class IV) and the boutique Butte Creek is less than 30 minutes from related to great whitewater. However, creeks of Pauley (Class V upper and IV downtown Chico and the lower section even ten or 20 years ago the runs out the lower sections) and Lavezzola (Class offers one of the prettiest Class II/III backdoor of these two cities were the stuff IV). Pauley Creek offers boaters a perfect runs in the state. If you need more gnarr of California whitewater legend. Two of introduction to running clean waterfalls. than that, the Upper Butte Creek run is a the crown jewels of California whitewater Another stone’s throw to the south, you 35-minute drive to the put-in and offers are the Bald Rock Canyon (Class V+) will find the South Yuba with the classic not only Class V whitewater, but also has and Devils Canyon (Class V, multi-day) 49 to Bridgeport section. This run is one of the largest spring salmon runs on sections of the Middle Fork Feather. Any nothing short of Class V heaven, with a the west coast. Need more runs that can boater who owns, or has browsed a copy of multitude of clean, fun rapids. North of be done in time to catch the early show? the Lars Holbeck & Chuck Stanley boating Chico you will find the multi-day lava Check out one of the many sections of the Bible (The Best Whitewater in California) canyons of Deer and Mill Creeks. These West Branch of the Feather. The early river has read repeatedly the accounts of the are remarkable journeys from high up in explorers missed this amazing drainage epic first descents on these runs. The the Sierra/Cascade Mountains, all the way in the 1980s. In the early 90s the first ill- granite scenery and bedrock rapids are down to the Sacramento Valley. All of the fated trips down the West Branch ended in 54 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 55 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 The majestic granite of Bald Rock Canyon in in the big backyards of Chico and Oroville

Photo by Eric Petlock

character building, poison oak encrusted Rivers, had boatable fl ows all year long hikes out of the canyon at high water. After before the many dams were built along further exploration and the discovery its length. By returning some of this of better take-outs, the Naked Lady Run water to the river once a month, AW has (Class IV), named for a sculpture of a brought year-round whitewater back to nude woman carved in the rock near the Feather. The Cresta run has the granite the put-in, has become a staple for area domes and great Class IV rapids that locals. In 1997, after scouting the lowest are hard to fi nd in the summer months run on the West Branch Feather on foot, in California. The Tobin section of the Arn Terry and I made the fi rst descent Rock Creek reach could be one of the best of what has become known as Ben and miles of whitewater anywhere, with more Jerry’s Gorge. This relatively short four- than twenty rapids in a single mile. These mile run contains hard Class V rapids and smooth granite drops are the stuff that two vertical-walled gorges. This unique California dreams are made of and with canyon is where the Cascades and the the higher base fl ows as part of the new Sierras meet, giving rise to an amazing license Rock Creek is boatable 24/7. Need array of geologic features such as beautiful more? In the next few years the Belden and green serpentine. Poe reaches of the Feather will be coming on line to add to the summer boating Several other runs have been uncovered opportunity, all less than an hour’s drive in the West Branch drainage, including from Chico and Oroville. Big Kimshew Creek, a big waterfall run that was knocked off by Scott Lindgren Still not convinced these are great and the Kerns in 1998. These runs have paddling towns? Last year AW conducted drawn the likes of Alex Nicks, Taylor fl ow studies on the South Fork Feather as Robertson, Dan Gavere, Tanya Shuman part of South Feather Water and Power’s and Rusty Sage. In fact, both Taylor and relicensing of their projects (see “Another Rusty found the paddling to be so good Jewel on the Feather River,” May/June in the Chico / Oroville area that Rusty 2006 American Whitewater). One of these came to Chico State to get his Engineering reaches below the Little Grass Valley degree and Taylor lives here when he is not Reservoir is a quality class IV/V run that off on other paddling adventures around has boatable releases every fall. Just to cap the world—more proof that Chico and it all off, as part of the Oroville settlement Oroville are two of the best whitewater agreement, AW and other groups will study cities in the country. the possibility of building a whitewater park in Oroville that would likely be the The only problem is that by July, even in longest in the world. What else could you the wettest of years, the water is all gone. possibly want in a whitewater town? How This is why boaters in California get that about good cheap beer? Turns out we crazed, “too many rivers, not enough have that too. Sierra Nevada Brewery is time” look every spring. Until fi ve years right here in Chico. One of their cold and ago, the only options for paddlers in the frosty ones is a great way to punctuate an Chico/Oroville region were dreaming of outstanding day of paddling. next year’s runoff or long drives to the South Fork American or Trinity Rivers. To California granite, classic year round be a truly great whitewater city, you must boating, good beer … so what are you have year round whitewater. A few frantic waiting for? Living and paddling in Chico months of whitewater—even if it is some and Oroville has always been good—now of the best in the world—is not enough it may be the best anywhere! to get people to think of your town as a whitewater destination.

All of that changed in 2002 because of the releases negotiated by American Whitewater on the North Fork Feather. The Feather, unlike most California

54 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 55 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Rafters enjoy an exciting trip down the Stoneycreek, just minutes outside Johnstown.

Photos by Johnstown Convention & Vistors Bureau

By Dave Hurst

ala carte menu of water choices: Best is becoming boater-central. For four A few years from known is the Stonycreek River, which years now it has been the festival site for now, you’ll be wishing flows through a five-mile, Class III- the Stonycreek Rendezvous, which draws IV upper gorge and a six-mile, Class hundreds of paddlers annually for races, you had moved to III-IV canyon before dropping off the a freestyle competition, rafting and good Allegheny Plateau and emptying into times. But by the end of 2006, Greenhouse this southwestern the Conemaugh River another ten miles will also be the place for enthusiasts Pennsylvania downstream. But, depending upon the wanting to “park and play” in Stonycreek day and the flow, the Stony’s tributaries— Whitewater Park, a 300-yard series of community in 2006. Benscreek, Clear Shade, Dark Shade, Paint, rapids slated to be built this fall. Quemahoning, Roaring Fork and Shade You’ll regret you didn’t move here before Creeks—offer water ranging from Class Efforts also are underway to arrange for the Stonycreek River became recognized II to V. Altogether, there are 10 rivers and regular, weekend water releases from as one of the outstanding paddling spots streams, ranging from class I to V, within the Quemahoning Dam just a couple of in the East, when all those well-situated 20 minute’s drive of Johnstown. Within 90 river-miles above the Stonycreek Canyon. homes were purchased at jaw-dropping minutes’ drive, your whitewater choices The 12 billion-gallon Que originally prices by your more-perceptive friends. include the Cheat, Big Sandy, Little Sandy, was a water supply for Bethlehem Steel and Youghiogheny (Top, Upper and Corp., which sold the 900-acre reservoir Johnstown’s been on paddlers’ itineraries Lower) Rivers. to the Cambria-Somerset Authority in for years as a great place for late-winter 2000. Now Quemahoning Lake quickly and early-spring action. Here there’s an Greenhouse Park, just south of the city, is becoming an outstanding public

56 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 57 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Visitors to Johnstown’s Inclined Plane can ride a trolley-style car to a vista more than 500 feet above the city

recreation facility, and if financing can planning, guided by the Conemaugh If you’re an entrepreneur, this is a be arranged to install release mechanisms Valley Conservancy and planners from community redefining itself; which means (and a synergistic hydroelectric generator), Ball State University in Muncie, IN. opportunities to fill needs that are just regular releases could be guaranteeing Home improvements are being made and becoming recognized. excellent whitewater in the canyon year- property values already are rising—just round within a couple of years. in anticipation. Property here is not only readily available but incredibly reasonable. Scores of Paddlers and outfitters are sure to Beyond the diverse paddling opportunities suburban ranches on spacious lots within follow—and they should find a warm it offers, the reason Greater Johnstown 15 minutes of the Stony Canyon can be welcome. The local Benscreek Canoe belongs on this list of the best whitewater purchased for less than $150,000. Land Club has spent the past quarter-century cities can be described in one word: within the Stonycreek River valley can be enjoying Johnstown area waters and “opportunity.” Here, you have the found for less than $4,000 an acre. If you’re boasting area attributes to the national opportunity to paddle where you live creative and handy with a hammer, older paddling community. The BCC is the and to live where you work. Your put-in fixer-uppers in the river towns are priced group developing the whitewater park is within 15 minutes of your driveway. So well-below $50,000. The core City of and is working with several organizations is your place of employment. A robust Johnstown is seeing old upper-level office on the weekend-release project. The Defense subcontracting sector and a space converted into $100,000 lofts, while Siamese-twin communities of Benson growing biotechnology community are an adjacent neighborhood is becoming and Hollsopple, situated between the dam providing good-paying jobs for qualified home to a biotechnology complex and an and the canyon, already are preparing people in engineering, information- artists’ district. for water-recreationists with community technology and the biological sciences.

56 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 57 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 A look at Johnstown’s history explains patch communities, fouling the landscape Some quick facts: this opportunity. The community fi rst and its streams. By the 1980s, however, The Johnstown fl ourished as a port on the Pennsylvania the community’s manufacturing base Main Line Canal—it was actually the put- had crumbled. While that meant massive MSA (Metropolitan in/take-out for canal boats lifted over the unemployment and hardships for the local Allegheny Front on an elaborate system communities, it also meant renewal for the Statistical Area) of motorized inclines. Visitors can learn natural environment. totaled 232,000 about that 19th-century engineering feat at the Allegheny Portage Railroad National In the 25 years since, Johnstown has in population, Historic Site. struggled to redefi ne itself. Through the infl uence of a local congressman, U.S. ranking 155th in The canal, and the Pennsylvania Railroad Rep. John P. Murtha, Defense-related the 2000 Census. that replaced it, led to the development of companies and biotechnology fi rms have iron, steel and coal industries that tapped located or emerged here. Local groups Its geographic area the region’s rich mineral resources. A have harnessed public and foundation heritage discovery center in Johnstown funds to improve water quality in streams, comprises Cambria and a coal heritage center in neighboring create land and water-based trails, and and Somerset counties Windber tell those stories. Likewise, a develop river-based recreation initiatives. growing network of transformed rail- on the Allegheny trails are interpreting the region’s history Johnstown is returning to its natural roots while offering spectacular river-valley and redefi ning what quality of life can Plateau, which scenery to bikers, runners and hikers. One mean in a rust belt community: small, divides southwestern example is the Path of the Flood, currently friendly, and family-oriented; offering being developed, which follows the Little competitive salaries in growth industries, and south-central Conemaugh River valley through the a low cost of living, ample amenities, Staple Bend Tunnel, the fi rst railroad a variety of recreational opportunities Pennsylvania. tunnel in the United States. and—very soon now—excellent year- Scenically beautiful round whitewater boating. Even 125 years ago, this area was a with rugged, natural playground. Andrew Carnegie, Now you know. And don’t think that a Andrew Mellon, Henry Clay Frick and few years from now we won’t say “We told hardwooded ridges other Gilded Age industrialists all owned you so.” and tableland farms, summer retreats on the mountain above Johnstown. It was their South Fork this is an area rich in Fishing and Hunting Club dam that failed and caused the infamous Great Johnstown natural and cultural Flood in 1889, killing more than 2,000 heritage. people. Today, you can experience that dramatic story at the Johnstown Flood Seven Springs, a nationally known, four- National Memorial and the Johnstown season resort, is nearby. So is a portion of Flood Museum. the Great Allegheny Passage, a rail-trail running 125 miles from Pittsburgh, PA, Between the 1870s and the 1970s, to Frostburg, MD. The 70-mile Laurel Johnstown traded its verdant charm Highlands Hiking Trail extends from for economic well-being. Hungry mills Johnstown to Ohiopyle. Forbes State drew immigrant workers, consumed Forest is home to dozens of mountain natural resources and poured out steel bike and cross-country ski trails. And products and waste. Coal mines dotted the there’s also a network of themed on-road landscape, feeding America’s industrial bicycle trails. machine, attracting immigrants to little

58 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 59 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 58 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 59 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 By Ambrose Tuscano and traffic. The warm water of Lake Cascade provide flows for the North Payette (Carbarton and North Fork runs) In recent years, Boise has consistently and Main Payette all summer long Boise is no big city, been ranked as one of the top US cities by several independent magazines and Photo by Megan Seifert but residents could be websites. These rankings take into account the cost of living, job opportunities, safety, forgiven for thinking climate, and other indices that make a city Payette (II-III), the Cabarton section of the of it in that light— a good home. However, Boise has one North Payette (III+), and the North Fork attribute that most of the rankings fail to (V). This is by no means a comprehensive especially when you note: its fantastic whitewater resources. list, simply those sections of river that have reliable flows ALL SUMMER LONG. consider how far you Within an hour of downtown lies the would have to travel to paddling Mecca known as The Payettes. The epicenter of this whitewater madness Together the branches of the Payette River is Banks, Idaho, a sleepy little town on a find a bigger one. (South, Middle and North) form one of very busy two-lane highway. Banks serves the most exciting and diverse year-round as the take-out for the North Fork (Lower With nearly half a million people in paddling locations in the country. Within Five Run) and South Fork Staircase section its metro area (and growing—fast!), an hour and a half of Boise, paddlers can and also the put-in for the Main Payette. Boise has most of the benefits of a city reach such classic sections as the South Therefore, on any summer weekend you’re (entertainment, higher education, jobs, Fork Canyon (IV), the Staircase section likely to find a collection of paddlers diverse eateries) without all the crime of the South Payette (III-IV), the Main meeting friends or fishing for shuttles at

60 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 61 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 the Banks Store or in the large parking lot Boise River, featuring primarily Class as blessed with whitewater as anyone in across the river from Highway 55. The only III runs. Further afi eld, there is the wild the country, the city itself is not half bad problem is, it can be hard for newcomers (and scenic) Salmon River drainage. The either. Boise boasts Boise State University, to guess who might be looking for a main difference between this mighty river a lively, rejuvenated downtown, many playful run down Staircase, a mellow day and the Payette is that the Salmon runs job opportunities in both the public and on the Main or a white-knuckle marathon free of dams and, therefore, its fl ows are private sectors and a ruggedly beautiful on the North Fork—sure proof that you determined almost entirely by snowmelt. desert setting. In the winter, residents can can’t judge a boater by her/his gear. Fortunately the forks of the Salmon drain ski and ride just 20 miles outside of Boise some high, broad mountain ranges, and at Bogus Basin Mountain. In the spring, Because of all this easily accessible and fl ows on the Middle and Main Salmon summer and fall there are fantastic cycling diverse whitewater, Boise is a great often remain boatable into September. opportunities, both on and off pavement, location for people looking to get into the just beyond the city limits. In addition sport to learn, practice and perfect their Other runs present smaller windows to physical activities, the city of Boise abilities. For fi rst-time paddlers, there are of opportunity, but many are worth offers a series of free outdoor concerts a couple of lesser-known runs, the Lower springtime pilgrimages. Perhaps the best running throughout the summer. Boise Middle Payette (which does dry up late example is the remote South Salmon also possesses several museums, a zoo, an in summer), Swirly Canyon of the South drainage, a three and a half hour drive opera and its own orchestra. Fork and the Lower Main which make from Boise. This area contains several for an excellent progression from low gems, including the Secesh, the South Boise is unequivocally a new city. While it volume Class I-II to bigger water Class Salmon Canyon—a multi-day Class IV has a rich history—from the Paiute and II to high volume Class II. Paddlers who draining into the Main Salmon, and the Shoshone who lived in the area before build their skills on these easier runs can East Fork of the South Salmon—at high white settlers arrived, to the gold miners later transition to the Main Payette, the water, the closest thing to the North who came in 1863—as recently as 1960, Cabarton and Staircase. Payette I’ve ever seen. the population of Boise was only 34,000. Boise has been the capitol of Idaho (then By the time paddlers have tested Of course, the Middle Fork of the Salmon, a territory) since 1865, but only recently themselves on the South Fork Canyon, running through the Frank Church-River have people begun to fl ock to the city in and the Deadwood and Middle Fork of No Return Wilderness, is perhaps substantial numbers. Payette sections during spring runoff, they the best multi-day river trip outside the may be at an impasse. Surely the biggest Grand Canyon. For residents of Boise, I have met lifelong residents of the city gap in diffi culty that the whitewater of this stunning remote river is only mildly who wistfully recollect the small-town the Payettes provide is between these runs inconvenient to set shuttle for—but it’s Boise of their childhood. While I am and the North Fork. This is not to say always worth it. Whether it’s the exciting sympathetic to the shock they must that the Canyon doesn’t have its share of Class IV whitewater, the beauty of the experience at seeing their city grow by an hair-raising Class IV (especially at spring its remote canyons, or the plethora of order of magnitude during their lifetimes, fl ows), the Middle Fork isn’t great creekin’ hot springs along the way, the Middle I also think that if Forbes only knew how and that the Deadwood isn’t, well, woody, Fork is not a bad river to have in your good the whitewater opportunities in but rather that there are few runs anywhere extended backyard. And for those looking Boise were, it’d be ranked the best city that prepare one for the North Fork. My to mix some creekin’ into their wilderness every year. guess is that some of the only people experience, there are a handful of alternate moving out of the Boise area today are put-ins for the Middle Fork that offer Class V paddlers fl eeing the psychological more technical whitewater that eventually pressure that comes from knowing this drains into the Middle Salmon. These runs run is thundering away less than an hour include the Rapid River (V), Loon Creek from their doors. I have never met anyone (V), Camas Creek (V), Monumental who has run the North Payette and doesn’t Creek (III-IV) and Big Creek (IV). There hold the river in high regard, bordering on is probably no other drainage in the lower outright fear. 48 that boasts so many unique multi-day trips as the Salmon River. Outside of the Payettes, Boise residents can check out the forks of the nearby While residents of Boise are certainly

60 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 61 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 By Tom O’Keefe measures, improved and additional boater Providing Water for Fish access, assistance with improving flows for fish and boating, and funds to study flow and Paddlers on the needs and benefits of river recreation on Green River, WA the Green River.

American Whitewater is working with This spring paddlers worked with the Friends of the Green River, local affiliate City of Tacoma to develop a long-term clubs, and business partners to implement access plan for the Headworks Run, a Settlement Agreement signed in 1995 to which will ensure access while addressing address recreation and water conservation critical security issues. We are currently issues associated with construction of a developing a study plan for recreational new water supply pipeline on the Green flow needs and an integrated plan for River. Water began flowing through improving public access to the river. the pipeline this past fall and with it implementation of the Settlement began. We thank local volunteers Pat Sumption and Jay Cohen who have spent more The Settlement includes a number of than two decades working on Green River provisions to benefit the Green River issues. A grant from Therm-A-Rest and and whitewater paddlers, including SealLine is currently supporting AW’s implementation of conservation contributions to this project.

Jay Cohen takes advantage of flows provided in the Green River Settlement Agreement

Photo by Thomas O’Keefe

62 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 63 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Supreme Court Issues In a simple common-sense opinion which provides for the protection and Unanimous Ruling: delivered by Justice Souter, the propagation of fi sh, shellfi sh, and wildlife Court held: and provides for recreation in and on Hydropower Dams Must the water.” With the Court’s decision, the Obey Clean Water Act The issue in this case is Clean Water Act will remain one of the key whether operating a dam to tools in our toolbox to help restore rivers By Thomas O’Keefe produce hydroelectricity for fi sh, wildlife, and paddlers on rivers “may result in any impacted by hydropower dams. In a 9-0 decision, the Supreme Court discharge into the navigable upheld the ability of states to protect waters” of the United States. AW made a signifi cant contribution to water quality under the Clean Water If so, a federal license under the “friend of the court” brief explaining Act at hydropower dams. SD Warren, §401 of the Clean Water Act the technical basis for how dams impact a South African company with dams requires state certifi cation that water quality. We give a big thanks to along the Presumpscot River in Maine, water protection laws will David Mears at the Vermont Law School had attempted to circumvent the not be violated. We hold who was lead author on our brief and the state approval process required under that a dam does raise a potential more than four dozen organizations who Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. for discharge, and state approval signed on. Many of our members stepped They attempted to make the absurd is needed. forward with signifi cant contributions to argument that water released from a fund our efforts and got on the phone to dam did not constitute a discharge and Congress passed the Clean Water Act to help us rally critical support for this case. their dams were therefore exempt from “restore and maintain” the integrity of our state certifi cation. nation’s waters to achieve “water quality Paddlers at the put-in for the Cresta Run on the North Fork Feather, a river that was restored through the hydro relicensing process

Photo by Thomas O’Keefe

62 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 63 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 My Son is Learning the McNasty???: Playboating in Our Backyard

By Susan Doran

It all started when I was watching “The Food Guy” on our local TV station. He was preparing an elaborate picnic lunch and gave a few suggestions for local picnic areas. One included a secret path to the Whitewater Park in Pittsford, New York. There, he said, you could be entertained as you ate. I skipped the fancy menu directions, slapped together a few sandwiches, grabbed my boys and headed off for a picnic.

Who knew that there was a whole new 13-year-old Danny Ooran, cartwheeling in Horton’s Hole world right around the corner from where Photo by Norman Deets II we live? The Lock 32 Whitewater Park turned out to provide great entertainment for a lunchtime picnic … and much more. minutes from our house, Lock 32 is an it back early so Danny could use it that My oldest son, Danny, age 10 at the time, artificial whitewater park constructed on weekend. Everyone helps anyone … show was instantly intrigued. Not being from a a spillway off the Erie Canal. The course up without your paddle and someone will big “sports” family, I was surprised when itself has a set of squirt lines, two waves pull one out of their truck and hand it he said, “Where do I sign up?” and two holes. The final hole, Horton’s to you. Hole, enables lots of vertical moves and Three years later, our family schedules our loops (front flips). Best of all, there is no As a mother, I couldn’t be happier that lives around kayaking. I would have never need to call the gauges or pray for rain the Danny has found this passion and also thought I would be happy knowing that night before you kayak because Lock 32 such a great community. Every night you my son was learning how to do something has consistent water all summer long (I can find the regular characters at the lock at the age of 13 with the word “nasty” in laugh as I type this because, even though I along with a few others who have heard it. When I pick him up from Lock 32, he don’t paddle, I actually understand all this of it by word of mouth. Andy, the lock jumps in the car and says, “Yeah … great terminology). manager, fits in the paperwork when he’s night! Paul did a Phonics Monkey, the not working on the course or perfecting McNasty, and a Bread n’ Butter. Andy I am amazed at the camaraderie among his shake n’ bake. Norm defies all laws of did the coolest Loop and Kurt was cart paddlers of all ages. I have gone to pick physics and rules of kayaking by fitting his wheeling forever.” I don’t even flinch up Danny and found Norm and Tony with big boned body into a not-so-big kayak. anymore when he says his dream is to learn all their tools out adjusting Danny’s boat; He is able to stay in the hole under almost the McNasty. He is more comfortable with they spend hours teaching him tips on any conditions. Paul is crazy enough to try the college age guys at the lock than he is this or that. We have gotten emails from just about anything, and of course, Danny with his classmates at school. Andy with photos attached telling him to is a kid who is striving to learn everything lean forward more to throw a better loop. from everyone. To see all ages from 10 to I thought that you needed a big river or When he wanted to buy his first boat, one 66 years old enjoying playboating together ocean nearby to get into kayaking. Not of the Lock 32 regulars offered to pick is a riot (no pun intended); no one is too so though. Located in Pittsford, just five it up at the Deerfield Festival and drive young, old, or inexperienced to fit in at Lock 32. 64 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 65 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Wet House

Reviewed by Mike Hoffman

The new paddling fi lm, Wet House, is I can honestly say that not a day goes by a refreshingly introspective movie that focuses on the lives of its characters that my son doesn’t mention something rather than the names of the rivers about kayaking. Whether it is actually they run. In fact, one of the fi rst things boating, checking the online message you notice watching this fi lm is that board, writing a school report, fi guring no rivers are identifi ed. Granted, it out how to earn money for his next boat is easy to pick out some of the more obvious locations, but I think producer or getting a new Wavesport video in the Ammen Jordan left the names out so mail. Recently Danny wrote in a paper that viewers can focus on the boaters for school: and the stories they tell. The fi lm mates great whitewater shots with Lock 32 is not just “that place where intriguing interviews and soliloquies, I kayak,” it is like my home. In the from both the boaters and their family and friends. summer I probably spend more time on the water of Lock 32 Wet House takes you inside the lives Steve Fischer echoes this statement later then I do in my own bed. Three of some of the big name boaters you in the movie, and by the end of the fi lm I years ago I was just a kid that had have seen in whitewater videos for realized that Wet House is a delightfully a normal life, with normal years (Nikki Kelly, Jimmy Blakeney, mature fi lm. The soundtrack doesn’t and Steve Fischer, to name a few) as friends, and a normal sport. have any heavy metal or hard-core rap; well as some new huckers. After a nifty instead, a good combination of mellow After I started one day at the Lock, bit of camera-work takes you through and punchy tunes backs up the gnarly I was hooked. Now, my life revolves the opening credits, the fi lm opens drops and huge waves. As for some of around kayaking. with one of these young guns, Bryan the other players, I remember seeing Kirk. I haven’t seen this guy before, but Jimmy Blakeney and Tanya Shuman in Kayaking is unlike any sport because you after watching him throw some of the Wave Sport videos nearly ten years ago, biggest, cleanest wave moves ever put and it’s great to see these guys continue rely on yourself. Lock 32 is the perfect to celluloid, I can tell you he’s going to to set the standard in whitewater place to learn and push yourself as far be showing up in videos for a long time kayaking as the boats get shorter, and as your abilities will limit. The Lock has to come. More than once I actually the drops get bigger. Steve Fischer sums the perfect combination of everyday shouted out in disbelief, “NO WAY!” up the attitude of all these seasoned water, waves, holes, eddies, and …most of as Kirk looped into orbit and brought veterans in a statement that closes the it down smooth. The mellow tunes in all, people. fi lm: “I’m not spending my 20s to 40s the background perfectly match the working for my house and my car, focused, controlled motions on the I’m spending [that time] working for This year the Lock 32 Whitewater Course screen; this guy is style personifi ed. the best life I can have.” Hopefully we will hold the Second Annual Lockapalooza can all embrace this attitude to some on Saturday August 19th. Last year’s While it’s great to see the new faces, the degree, because all the boaters in Wet event was a smashing success with 25 majority of the fi lm focuses on folks House look like they are leading very you have seen for years. Nikki Kelly is rich lives indeed. participants and 100 spectators and several the fi rst lady of big water boating, and generous sponsors. This year we’ll make the it’s great to hear some of her female As for DVD extras, Wet House has party even bigger and better. “mates” talk about how she inspires plenty. If you were missing the rap them to keep pushing the boundaries and metal from the soundtrack of See these websites for more information: of what women—or anyone—can the main feature, rest assured that the do in a boat. However, Ms. Kelly http://www.fl owpaddlers.org/users/andy/ LVM highlights section will serve up also makes a perceptive and humble equal amounts of hard-core music lkplza/lkplza.htm statement about knowing your limits and hard-core whitewater. Add in two http://www.americanwhitewater.org/rivers/ and recognizing that walking a rapid other appealing movie previews and a id/4034 when you’re not feeling it is an integral handful of Wet House-specifi c extras, part of kayaking at the highest level (or and you have a DVD that offers up a any level for that matter). great mix of liquid entertainment.

64 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 65 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Each day American Whitewater faces new challenges that threaten our whitewater rivers. To aid us in this fi ght, we rely on support from members, donors, foundations, and partners in the industry.

Companies throughout the whitewater and outdoor industries are stepping forward to support AW’s River Stewardship work.

The company now known as Kokatat American Whitewater urges was started in 1971 by a college student named Steve O’Meara with an eye towards making innovative outdoor you not to make purchase gear, such as the world’s fi rst GORE-TEX® bivy sack. With decisions blindly. When Steve still at the helm, Kokatat continues to dedicate itself to his original intent: offering the industry’s most extensive you buy your next piece line of watersports wear and enjoying a well deserved reputation for product quality and a commitment to of outdoor gear there are watersports. many factors to consider: quality, dependability, Kokatat remains one of AW’s comfort, safety, and fashion. strongest allies by continuing American Whitewater support of AW’s Membership hopes you will add one and River Stewardship more consideration to this programs. By providing list: corporate American Whitewater with responsibility. valuable membership and donation incentives, Kokatat Support companies that supports the ongoing support your rivers stewardship of North American rivers.

66 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 67 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 In 2005, and again in 2006, NRS will show Immersion Research led the whitewater their commitment to river stewardship industry in corporate responsibility. IR Clif Bar’s annual Flowing Rivers campaign through encouraging AW membership at was American Whitewater’s fi rst industry that provides funding to AW’s affi liate river festivals nationwide. supporter of river stewardship and clubs for river stewardship projects is now remains a friend and ally today. in its fourth year.

Fortess Internationl Watches is new to the In turning the pages of North Carolina scene and new to supporting American Rivers & Creeks, it’s easy to see how many Whitewater. Through creative fundraising As part of Jackson Kayak’s focus on fantastic rivers AW has had a hand in strategies Fortress will help AW seek environmental responsibility, they are opening up to paddling. We support the funds needed to advocate for all supporting AW’s work by encouraging AW in hope that there will be more great whitewater rivers. membership growth in the organization. rivers to tell about in future editions, and more river lovers out there working with AW to preserve the rivers we all love!

Kayak Session helps American Whitewater Chaco helps set the standard for industry increase membership, fund river responsibility by supporting causes near stewardship work, and get our message out to their hearts with 3% of after tax profi ts. to readers here and abroad. KS is proud We love donating to river conservation to provide AW members a discounted organizations like AW. Being partners with subscription rate. American Whitewater allows each of us to do what we do best; AW is a leader in river conservation and Werner Paddles can focus on being the leading kayak paddle Girls at Play donates $.50 to AW for manufacturer. each Girls at Play DVD sold and actively promotes AW membership to participants Stahlsac helps AW make sure our lifetime of the Girls at Play Summer Tour. Anna members are satisfi ed by providing all of Levesque, the founder of Girls at Play, is our lifetime members with their paddler proud to be an AW Athlete Ambassador. duffl e. In 2006 Keen’s contributions will aid American Whitewater in its quest to restore ecological health and recreational opportunities to the Catawba River Throughout the history of the natural watershed in North and South Carolina. world, water sources have been the Wavesport donations help AW have the centers of life, providing habitat and resources it needs to conserve and restore sustenance for animals and plants alike. our whitewater resources. Patagonia is proud to support groups like American Whitewater that work to reverse the destructive effects of damming, development and pollution. Outdoorplay is proud to support American Whitewater’s river stewardship In 2004 Teva named American Whitewater work and has done so for three years now. as their river stewardship partner and has Outdoorplay.com, along with many other been one of our strongest supporters of In 2006 Smith Optics continues its retailers nationwide, provides discounts river access and conservation since. support of American Whitewater’s river for American Whitewater members on stewardship work and membership. their website. 66 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 67 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Join

Today! s s s s s s American Whitewater has been extraordinarily fortunate in our ability to leverage a strong grassroots, Over the years, American Whitewater be sure that everyone you paddle with volunteers have participated in numerous understands the work AW does, and how base—members hydropower meetings as well as you, as an AW member, value that work. instream and recreational flow studies; and other filed comments and assisted with an Membership support is what will volunteers—to uncountable number of filings; appeared determine our ability to continue our river as expert witnesses; lobbied; worked to stewardship work in the years to come. assist our limited fight new dams, remove existing dams, Individual Annual Memberships are only deny licenses, and improve public access $35. If you are a member of your local staff with many to rivers and streams. In nearly every river paddling club and your club is an Affiliate stewardship issue AW has been involved Club member of AW, join as a Club whitewater river with, the outcome has been favorable Affiliate Individual for $25. This is a tank to paddlers. Not only has AW secured of gas or an inexpensive night out. This is conservation and favorable decisions for the paddling certainly not too much to pay to have a community, but we are the only national national organization representing your restoration efforts. organization representing paddlers as paddling interests all across the country. these decisions are being made. Join on-line today at http://www.america A growing membership base is crucial nwhitewater.org/membership, call 1-866- to our ability to continue with our work. BOAT4AW (866-262-8429), or fill out the Some studies show that there are currently form on the back of this page and mail over 100,000 whitewater paddlers in the it to: U.S. American Whitewater currently has 6,300 active members. When considering Membership the amount of whitewater river miles P.O. Box 1540 that AW has had a direct impact on, this Cullowhee, NC 28723 membership number is unimpressive. We need all paddlers to join American Whitewater. If you are a member, please

68 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 69 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 P.O. Box 1540, Cullowhee, NC 28723 • 866-BOAT-4AW

68 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 69 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 The Affiliate Club Program lies at the very University of Colorado Kayak Club, Boulder New Hampshire heart of AW’s existence. AW’s original Ledyard Canoe Club, Hanover purpose since 1957 has been to distribute Florida Mt. Washington Valley Paddlers, Franconia information among its Affiliate Clubs. Project Challenge Inc., Miami Merrimack Valley Paddlers, Merrimack AW’s relationships with local clubs North Florida Wihtewater Assoc., Ocala have provided the backbone for the New Jersey river conservation and access work it Georgia The Paddling Bares, Milltown accomplishes. Over 100 clubs are now Atlanta Whitewater Club, Atlanta AW Club Affiliates and they are all Georgia Canoeing Association, Atlanta New Mexico doing great work on your behalf. If Georgia Tech Outdoor Recreation, Atlanta Adobe Whitewater Club, Albuquerque you don’t belong to a club consider Paddlers4Christ, Ellijay joining one. New York Idaho ADK Schenectady, Schenectady This is the fourth year that Clif Bar makes Idaho Whitewater Assoc., Boise FLOW Paddlers Club, Rochester possible the AW / Clif Bar Flowing Rivers Housatonic Canoe & Kayak Squad, Ossining grants. Paddling clubs must be current Illnois Town Tinker Tube Rentals, Phoenicia AW Affiliate Clubs to be eligible for these Chicago Whitewater Assoc., Chicago Whitewater Challengers, Old Forge $500 grants. Clubs across the country have Zoar Valley Paddling Club, Dunkirk embarked on many wonderful programs Indiana as a result of this program (See Nov/Dec Ohio Valley Whitewater Club, Evansville N. Carolina 2005 AW Journal). Make sure your club is Carolina Canoe Club, Raleigh an AW Affiliate Club and encourage them Iowa Mecklenburg Regional Paddlers, Indian Trail to apply for this grant for a local project Iowa Whitewater Coalition, Des Moines Warren Wilson College, Asheville important to paddlers in your area. Western Carolina Paddlers, Asheville Kansas Watauga Paddlers, Boone AFFILIATE CLUBS, we want to know Kansas Whitewater Association, Mission what you are doing. Send your events to Ohio us at [email protected] and we will Kentucky Columbus Outdoor Pursuits, Columbus include them in the Journal. Bluegrass Whitewater Association, Lexington Keel Haulers Canoe Club, Westlake Viking Canoe Club, Louisvillle Outdoor Adventure Club, Dayton The AW Journal Club Affiliates by State: Bardstown Boaters, Frankfort Toledo River Gang, Waterville

Alaska Maine Oregon Fairbanks Paddlers, Fairbanks AMC/Maine Chapter, Portland Oregon Kayak and Canoe Club, Portland Penobscot Paddle & Chowder Society, Oregon Whitewater Association, Beaverton Alabama Topsham Willamette Kayak and Canoe Club, Corvallis Birmingham Canoe Club, Birmingham Lower Columbia Canoe Club, Portland Coosa Paddling Club, Montgomery Maryland Huntsville Canoe Club, Huntsville Greater Baltimore Canoe Club, Kingsville Pennsylvania Mason Dixon Canoe Cruisers, Smithsburg AMC Delaware Valley Chapter, Sugarloaf Arkansas Bens Creek Canoe Club, Johnstown Arkansas Canoe Club, Little Rock Massachusetts Canoe Club of Greater Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg AMC Boston Chapter, Lunenburg Conewago Canoe Club, York California Holtwood Hooligans, Lititz Central CA Canoe Club (C4), Nevada City Minnesota Lehigh Valley Canoe Club, Lehigh Valley Chico Paddle Heads, Chico Boat Busters Anonymous, Stillwater Philadelphia Canoe Club, Philadelphia Gold Country Paddlers, Lotus Charlie Sawyer, Maple Plain Three Rivers Paddling Club, Pittsburgh River Touring Section, Angleles Chapter Pine Creek Valley Wilswater Association, Jersey Shore Sequoia Paddling Club, Windsor Missouri KCCNY, Philadelphia Shasta Paddlers, Redding Missouri Whitewater Association, St. Louis Lehigh Valley Whitewater Club, Lehigh Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter, San Jose Ozark Mountain Paddlers, Springfield Valley Ozark Wilderness Waterways, Kansas City Colorado Kansas City Whitewater Club, Kansas City S. Carolina Avid4Adventure Inc., Boulder Foothills Paddling Club, Greenville Colorado White Water Association, Englewood Montana Palmetto Paddlers, Columbia Grand Canyon Priv. Boat. Assn, Englewood Beartooth Paddlers Society, Billings FiBark Boat Races, Englewood Tennessee Pikes Peak Whitewater Club, Colorado Springs Nevada Appalachain Paddling Enthusiasts, Gray Pueblo Paddlers, Pueblo West Sierra Nevada Whitewater Club, Reno Eastman Hiking and Canoeing, Kingsport Rocky Mountain Canoe Club, Englewood

70 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 71 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Join American Whitewater as a Club Affiliate! E. Tennessee Whitewater Club, Oak Ridge 10 Reasons to Join AW Memphis Whitewater, Memphis Tennessee Valley Canoe Club, Chattanooga Discounted AW as an Affiliate Club University of Tennessee Knoxville, Knoxville Chota Canoe Club, Knoxville Memberships for Affiliate Club Members Texas 1. Receive the American Bayou Whitewater Club, Houston by Carla Miner paddletexas.com, San Antonia Membership Coordinator Whitewater Journal, the Houston Canoe Club, Houston oldest continually published In the recent past, AW has whitewater magazine. Utah been offering discounted AW University of Utah, Salt Lake City 2. Join the list of Affiliate Clubs USU Kayak Club, Logan memberships to whitewater Utah Whitewater Club, Salt Lake City noted in each bi-monthly enthusiasts who are also AW Journal. Vermont members of one of AW’s Vermont Paddlers Club, Jericho Affiliate Clubs. 3. List club events in the AW Journal. Virginia Blue Ridge Voyageurs, Reston We now have the ability to offer 4. Your Club’s members can Blue Ridge River Runners, Lynch Station this discounted membership become AW members for $25. Canoe Cruisers Association, Arlington A $10 savings! Coastal Canoeists, Richmond online! For each club, AW Float Fishermen of Virginia, Roanoke will create a unique URL that 5. Have technical expertise for FORVA, Roanoke Richmond Whitewater Club, Mechanicsville will automatically offer the your Club conservation and discounted membership and/or access committees ‘on tap.’ Washington we will provide a coupon code Outdoor Adventure Club, Redmond 6. Have access to technical and Paddle Trails Canoe Club, Seattle that is specific to your club that Spokane Canoe & Kayak Club, Spokane will allow individuals to receive onsite assistance for your Club’s University Kayak Club, Seattle event planning. Washington Kayak Club, Seattle the discount on the normal AW Washington Recreation River Runners, Renton Membership Page. 7. Enjoy VIP benefits for “Joint Whitman College Whitewater Club, Walla Walla Members” at AW events. Venturing Crew 360, Snohomish Both options work equally well West Virginia and help make life easier for 8. Participate in exclusive AW West VA Wildwater Assoc., S. Charleston members of your club. Affiliate Club promotions. Friends of the Cheat, Kingwood 9. Post Club information on the Wisconsin Several clubs have already set up Badger State Boating Society, Waukesha AW Website to help paddlers Hoofers Outing Club, Madison the program and their members find you. Pure Water Paddlers, Eau Claire are enjoying the benefits of River Alliance of Wisconsin, Madison joining AW for only $25! 10. Eligible to apply for a spot in the Sierra Club / John Muir Chapter, LaCrosse AW 2006 River Stewardship Wyoming If you are interested in learning Institute. Jackson Hole Kayak Club, Jackson Hole more about this program, Canada, British Columbia please contact me and I would Vancouver Kayak Club, Vancouver be happy to help your club For more information, set up this program. I can be contact Carla Miner at Canada, Ontario [email protected] Madawaska Kanu Camp Inc., Ottawa reached at: 866-BOAT-4AW or or sign-up on-line at: [email protected]. www.americanwhitewater.org/membership

70 American Whitewater www.americanwhitewater.org www.americanwhitewater.org American Whitewater 71 July/August 2006 July/August 2006 Please read this carefully before send ing us your American Whitewater feature ar ti cles should relate to and dis tanc es are cor rect ly cal cu lat ed. articles and photos! This is a vol un teer pub li ca tion, some aspect of whitewater boat ing. Please do not sub mit please cooperate and help us out. Do not send us your articles per tain ing to sea kayaking or fl at water. Articles will be edited at the dis cre tion of the edi- ma te ri al without a release – signed by all au thors tors to fi t our format, length, and style. Expect to see and pho tog ra phers (attached). If you are writing about a commonly pad dled river, changes in your ar ti cle. If you don’t want us to edit your story should be told from a unique perspective. your ar ti cle, please don’t send it in! Be cause of our If possible, articles should be sub mit ted on a Articles about dif fi cult, infrequently paddled, or exotic dead lines you will not be able to review the editorial 3-1/2-inch computer disk. (Microsoft Word if rivers are given special con sid er ation. But we are also chang es made prior to pub li ca tion. pos si ble – oth ers accepted.) Please do not alter the interested in well writ ten, un usu al articles pertaining margins or spac ing pa ram e ters; use the stan dard to Class II, III & IV rivers as well. Feature sto ries do American Whitewater is a nonprofi t; the ed i tors default set tings. Send a printed copy of the article not have to be about a specifi c river. Articles about and con trib u tors to Amer i can White wa ter are not as well. paddling tech niques, the river en vi ron ment and river re im bursed. On rare oc ca sions, by pre ar range ment, per son al i ties are also ac cept ed. Pieces that in cor po rate pro fes sion al writ ers receive a small hon o rar i um Those without access to a word pro ces sor humor are es pe cial ly wel come. Open boating and raft ing when they submit sto ries at our re quest. Gen er al ly, may sub mit their articles typed. Please sto ries are wel come. our con trib u tors do not expect pay ment, since most dou ble space. are mem bers of AW, which is a vol un teer con ser va tion Profanity should be used only when it is ab so lute ly and safe ty or ga ni za tion. Photos may be submitted as slides, black or white necessary to effectively tell a sto ry; it is not our intent prints, or color prints or electronic, digital photos, 300 to offend our more sen si tive mem bers and readers. dpi tiffs, Photoshop or high res jpegs minimum 3”x5.” Send your material to: Keep your orig i nals and send us du pli cates if pos si ble; Please check all facts carefully, par tic u lar ly those regard- Journal Editor we cannot guar an tee the safe re turn of your pic tures. If ing individuals, gov ern ment agen cies, and cor po ra tions P.O. Box 1540 you want us to return your pic tures, include a self-ad- in volved in river access and en vi ron men tal mat ters. You Cullowhee, NC 28723 dressed stamped en ve lope with your sub mis sion. The are legally re spon si ble for the accuracy of such material. E-mail: [email protected] bet ter the pho tos the better the re pro duc tion. Make sure names are spelled correctly and riv er gra di ents

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