Canceled: Learn about canoeing, kayaking at Paddle in the Park
Editor's note: Due to inclement weather, the McHenry County Conservation District is cancelling "Paddle in the Park," scheduled for Saturday, May 12, at the Hollows Conservation Area in Cary.
Test the waters, dip a paddle in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Atwood and discover the joy of canoeing, kayaking, and standup paddle boarding at Paddle in the Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at The Hollows Conservation Area, 3804 Route 14, Cary.
Hosted by McHenry County Conservation District, this event is a great opportunity for beginners to get introduced to the sport or for experienced paddlers to pick up information on local outings and outfitters.
"Not only is canoeing or kayaking fun, but a great opportunity to get closer to wildlife than any other form of transportation," said event coordinator Andy Talley. "McHenry County residents have access to many nearby waterways and our hope is that we can get individuals and families to take their next outdoor adventure on the water."
Entry to the event is free, and for a one-time workshop fee of $5 visitors can test paddle a variety of water vessels and participate in: a beginning canoe paddling clinic offered at noon and 1 p.m., a beginning kayak paddling clinic at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., solo canoe paddling clinic at 11 a.m., and stand-up paddleboard clinics throughout the day.
There will be an outfitting your kayak for fishing clinic at 12:30 p.m., and a demonstration of canoe rescue techniques at 3 p.m.
Visitors will also discover the importance of the canoe in early American settlement, exploration, and the fur trade industry.
The Southwest Brigade, historical interpreters, will demonstrate a voyageur canoe. Representatives from the American Canoe Association will be present to teach solo canoeing, canoes rescue techniques, and workshops: "How to Be a Well-Dressed Paddler" and/or "Assessing Risk: Live to Paddle Another Day."
New this year, the fee includes entry to win door prizes from vendors. Local vendors will be on hand to discuss the different types of watercrafts available and which type might best suit you or your family's needs.
A number of canoeing resources will be available such as information on where to paddle, where to get lessons, clubs to join, local outfitters and rentals, and details on local river trips and Midwest excursions.
Award winning singer/songwriter and canoe enthusiast Jerry Vandiver will perform. Jerry has song credits on more than 15 million records and two of his titles are hanging in the Country Music Hall of Fame. There will be food for sale by MJ's Coffee Bar.
Participants include Adaptive Adventures, American Canoe Association, Illinois Paddling council; clubs: Prairie State Canoeists, St. Charles Canoe Club, Southwest Brigade with their voyageur canoe; and vendors: Alpine Accessories, LL Bean, and Myka Canoe Loaders.
Registration is not required. For details, call Prairieview Education Center, (815) 479-5779, or visit www.MCCDistrict.org.