Essex County Natural Resources Conservation District Canoe and Kayak Paddle on the Connecticut River, June 30th

The Essex County Natural Resources Conservation District (ECNRCD) will be hosting its Annual Canoe and Kayak Paddle on the Connecticut River on Saturday, June 30, 2012. We will meet at the Colebrook/Lemington Bridge access along Rte. 3 on the New Hampshire side of the River at 10:00am. From there we will shuttle cars downstream and plan on being back on the River and underway by 11:00am. The paddle will conclude approximately five miles downstream at the Columbia Bridge access. This stretch of the River provides mostly flat water with good current, allowing for a leisurely paddle with some quicker water mixed in to keep things really interesting! Essex County NRCD and NorthWoods Stewardship Center staff will be on hand to assist with paddling techniques if necessary and for interpretation highlighting the mapping of invasives species currently taking place along the Upper Connecticut, in addition to wildlife, river dynamics and stream management issues. This is an Annual event of the Conservation District, hosted in part to build awareness of the importance of the Connecticut River as a resource to the region. The Connecticut River is one of 14 American Heritage Rivers in the nation because of its historical impact on the region. Space is limited and pre-registration is requested. Past year’s paddles have filled up quickly, so it is suggested that those interested call early. Participants should bring a lunch, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and extra clothes. Please call Tamara at the Essex NRCD at (802) 748-3885 x114 or email tamara.colten@vt.nacdnet.net to register or for any questions regarding the event. Limited canoe rentals and equipment may be available- please call the District office in advance for more information. A rain date of July 1, 2012 has been scheduled as well. The Essex County NRCD offers a resource to landowners, farmers, schools and businesses through their efforts with river assessment, agriculture, education and other community conservation projects. Through extensive partnerships with local, state and federal agencies, the ECNRCD coordinates existing resources on a local level to ensure environmental quality and support the integrity of land use practices in Essex County.