Volunteers needed for the Grandman Triathlon hosted by Mobile Bay Watch
Put two dates on your calendar for Grandman volunteer opportunities:
Saturday, June 4, 2005 in the morning - a swim course cleanup in Mobile Bay will be conducted beginning at the Fairhope Big Pier. Divers will check the course and volunteers are needed to help remove any debris which may be hinder or injure athletes during the swim portion of the triathlon to be held 2 weeks later. Harriet Ingraham will be our contact for those willing to help. Her contact information is below.
Saturday, June 18, 2005 6:30 AM - Grandman Triathlon, Fairhope Big Pier - Kayakers are needed to paddle out into Mobile Bay, line the swim course leg of the triathlon, to direct swimmers to stay on course, and provide aid if needed. Volunteers will need to be at the big pier by 6:30 AM. This is an annual event that MBCAKC has always volunteered for in the past.
Harriet Ingraham will organize and lead about 10 to 12 kayaks needed for assistance as kayaker lifeguards and swim directors during the race. Please contact Harriet if you plan to assist in this important club activity, which will greatly help Mobile Bay Watch put on a professional, safe and fair competition for the athletes. Harriet may be contacted at 251-928-4568 evenings, or you may email Harriet.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
****FLASH PADDLE**** DAUPHIN ISLAND TO SAND ISLAND
Date: Saturday morning, May 7th, 2005
Launch time: 7:00 a.m. (in boat and departing)
Put-in/Take out: Dauphin Island, East end, on the beach northwest of the
Ferry Restrooms.
Expenses: Launch is Free.
Snacks: Bring enough snacks, food, and fluids to last 3-4 hours.
Skill Level: This is not a trip for first time kayakers. A kayak with a
rudder or skeg is recommended.
Latest Forecast: High tide: 10:30 AM. 10 mph or less winds. Bay waters
smooth.
Distance: Approx 10 miles.
Route: Kayak around the east end of Dauphin Island and go approx 2.5 miles
south to the south end of Sand Island. Short break. Then northwest along the
north side of Sand Island to the northern most tip (about 3 miles).
Somewhere along Sand Island, I plan on testing out my self rescue equipment
by doing a couple of self rescues. Short Break. Then we'll go north to the
south side of Dauphin Island, kayaking along the shore all the way back to
the launch site (about another 3.5 miles).
Warning: No shade. Consider bringing hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, standard
safety gear, bathing suit, and plenty of fluids - suppose to be almost 80
degrees.
Contact: Rob Nykvist (251) 423-0015
Date: Saturday morning, May 7th, 2005
Launch time: 7:00 a.m. (in boat and departing)
Put-in/Take out: Dauphin Island, East end, on the beach northwest of the
Ferry Restrooms.
Expenses: Launch is Free.
Snacks: Bring enough snacks, food, and fluids to last 3-4 hours.
Skill Level: This is not a trip for first time kayakers. A kayak with a
rudder or skeg is recommended.
Latest Forecast: High tide: 10:30 AM. 10 mph or less winds. Bay waters
smooth.
Distance: Approx 10 miles.
Route: Kayak around the east end of Dauphin Island and go approx 2.5 miles
south to the south end of Sand Island. Short break. Then northwest along the
north side of Sand Island to the northern most tip (about 3 miles).
Somewhere along Sand Island, I plan on testing out my self rescue equipment
by doing a couple of self rescues. Short Break. Then we'll go north to the
south side of Dauphin Island, kayaking along the shore all the way back to
the launch site (about another 3.5 miles).
Warning: No shade. Consider bringing hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, standard
safety gear, bathing suit, and plenty of fluids - suppose to be almost 80
degrees.
Contact: Rob Nykvist (251) 423-0015
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
GRAND BAY - DUNCAN OIL TO DRILL EXPLORATORY WELL
According to an April 23, 2005 front page article in the Mobile Register, Duncan Oil Company plans to drill an exploratory gas well in Grand Bay. The drilling equipment would be in Grand Bay for 21 days and barges will transit through Grand Bay's shallow seagrass beds and small inlands at least 18 times during this period. These barges will draw up to 6 feet of water. These areas are 5 feet deep at low tide and just a few inches deeper than 6 feet at high tide. Crew supply boats will make multiple trips throught the waters daily.
Note that Grand Bay is one of the most biologically productive estuarine ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico region.
The US Army Corps of Enginers will accept letters from the public, addressing concerns about the potential destruction of this fragile shallow bay area, until May 15, 2005. If you want to write a letter to the Corps, correspondence needs to refer to:
Public Notice Number AL05-00982-F, and directed to:
District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Mobile
Post Office Box 2288
Mobile, AL 36628-0001
Attention: Regulatory Branch
Copies should be sent to:
ADEM
4171 Commanders Drive
Mobile, AL 36615
Also, let your local legislators know how you feel! Letters MUST be received by MAY 15, 2005.
More historical information may be found on the Alabama Coastal Foundation website, click here and then click on Duncan Oil and Grand Bay. A sample letter will be posted very soon, on the Alabama Coastal Foundation site, suitable as a template for mail or email.
Legislator addresses:
U.S. Senate: click here
U.S. Representative: click here
Alabama Senate districts 34 & 35: click here
Alabama Representatives district 105: click here
According to an April 23, 2005 front page article in the Mobile Register, Duncan Oil Company plans to drill an exploratory gas well in Grand Bay. The drilling equipment would be in Grand Bay for 21 days and barges will transit through Grand Bay's shallow seagrass beds and small inlands at least 18 times during this period. These barges will draw up to 6 feet of water. These areas are 5 feet deep at low tide and just a few inches deeper than 6 feet at high tide. Crew supply boats will make multiple trips throught the waters daily.
Note that Grand Bay is one of the most biologically productive estuarine ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico region.
The US Army Corps of Enginers will accept letters from the public, addressing concerns about the potential destruction of this fragile shallow bay area, until May 15, 2005. If you want to write a letter to the Corps, correspondence needs to refer to:
Public Notice Number AL05-00982-F, and directed to:
District Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer District, Mobile
Post Office Box 2288
Mobile, AL 36628-0001
Attention: Regulatory Branch
Copies should be sent to:
ADEM
4171 Commanders Drive
Mobile, AL 36615
Also, let your local legislators know how you feel! Letters MUST be received by MAY 15, 2005.
More historical information may be found on the Alabama Coastal Foundation website, click here and then click on Duncan Oil and Grand Bay. A sample letter will be posted very soon, on the Alabama Coastal Foundation site, suitable as a template for mail or email.
Legislator addresses:
U.S. Senate: click here
U.S. Representative: click here
Alabama Senate districts 34 & 35: click here
Alabama Representatives district 105: click here
May Club Calendar
Grassy Point, FL
Date: Saturday, May 7, 2005
Time: 10:00 AM
Contact: Gary Worob (850) 259-9337 gworob@yahoo.com
Directions: take route I-10 east to the Milton exit/rt.87, as if you were going to Boiling Creek. Go 5 mi. past the Yellow River bridge to the first paved road on the right (west side). There will be a sign saying OLF CHOCTAW AIR FORCE BASE: turn right there, and go until you can see the gate, turn right at dirt road just before the gate. Go 5 miles on the well-graded dirt road and stay to right until you get to campsite.
Comments: this is a great paddling and/or camping weekend. Grassy Point is located below Milton, FL and near Boiling Creek. It is another pristine area run by Northwest Florida water management district (they own Econfina Creek). No permit is needed and camping is primitive with clean portapotti's. We will paddle from the campground into a beautiful estuary and just north of the site is an inlet where there are a great number of osprey nests and it is supposed to be quite spectacular...then return for potluck dinner, drumming and campfire stories.
Bring food to share if you are staying for dinner and/or camping. This is a pure white sandy beach lagoon with huge live oaks to camp under...pristine.
Boiling Creek, Eglin AFB, FL Mother's Day Paddle
Date: May 8, 2005
Time: 10:00 AM
Contact: Gary Worob (850) 259-9337 gworob@yahoo.com
Directions: take route I-10 east to the Milton exit/rt.87, go south for a few miles and cross a long bridge over the Yellow River and turn left into parking lot to meet for shuttle.
Comments: BRING CURRENT GREEN EGLIN AIR FORCE RECREATION PASS, A MUST. Bring liquids and lunch and something to share on Mother's Day and a bathing suit, or not. severe weather date: the next weekend.
Johnson's Beach, FL - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
Date: May 20-21, 2005
Time: afternoon
Contact: Larry McDuff 251-928-1582
Directions: Put in at Big Lagoon State Park
Comments: Call Larry to sign up and get more detailed information about meeting time and directions to put-in. Overnight camping trip, beginner friendly, on a barrier island in the National Seashore system. Will return early Saturday morning.
Full Moon Paddle - Bay Minette Basin, Spanish Fort, AL
Date: May 21, 2005
Time: 6:30 PM
Contact: Bob Andrews 251-367-4144
Directions: Meet at Buzbee's on Hwy 225 about 2 mi. north of Hwy 31 (Bruno's in Spanish Fort)
Comments: There is a $3 fee per boat to put-in. This will be a moderate pace and distance out into Bay Minette Basin to see the flowers, birds, sunset and full moon risin'. Bring snacks, drinks and the usual items listed in FAQ, as well as a working flashlight for night safety.
Phatwater Tour
Date: May 21, 2005
Time: morning
Place: Natchez, MS
Contact: Keith Benoist Cell: 601 431-1731, Evening Phone: (601) 445-8843
E-mail: keith@kayakmississippi.com
Comments: Anyone interested in attending is welcome. Please contact me at the earliest to work out details. This is a tour, and has no club affiliation, so you will be on you own, insofar as insurance is concerned. You need also to assess your individual paddling skills and level of endurance, as this is a 45 mile paddle, and will take anywhere from six to seven hours to complete. If anyone has specific questions, please email me and let's get the kinks worked out in advance.
Hurricane Landing, AL
Date: May 22, 2005
Time: 2:00 PM
Contact: Brint Adams - 583-9919 cell
Directions: We will meet at 1:30 PM at Bruno's in Spanish Fort at Hwy 31 & Hwy 225 to caravan or you may go directly to Hurricane Landing.
Comments: This will be a beginner-friendly slow paddle up/back beautiful Hurricane Creek. The parking fee is $3. Bring the usual items listed under FAQ.
A large crowd with many new faces came to the May meeting. Tom Meyer mentioned that the annual Bayou La Fourche trip may be postponed from this fall to the spring of 2006. He will check into further and report any updated news. This may impact any future plans of ours to possibly host a similar paddle trip on the Mobile/Tensaw delta.
Eastern Shore Land Trust is looking for help in the form of any good photos of local wetlands, animals, birds, flowers, etc., anything worthy of preservation, to be used in the design of a new informational pamphlet. Contact Philip Dyson, secretary of ESLT at sewane13d@aol.com to send photos by mail or electronically.
Chief Ron Emrich and Petty Officer Latner of the US Coast Guard gave an informative presentation titled, America's Waterway Watch. It is the Coast Guard's Department of Homeland Security Maritime Outreach Program encouraging citizens to watch for any suspicious behavior on the waterways, and if seen, to contact their hotline. The 24 hour hotline numbers are 1-800-424-8802 and 1-877-24watch. Pamphlets, boat stickers and wallet cards were given to those present. For more information about this program, you may click on americas waterway watch.
Grassy Point, FL
Date: Saturday, May 7, 2005
Time: 10:00 AM
Contact: Gary Worob (850) 259-9337 gworob@yahoo.com
Directions: take route I-10 east to the Milton exit/rt.87, as if you were going to Boiling Creek. Go 5 mi. past the Yellow River bridge to the first paved road on the right (west side). There will be a sign saying OLF CHOCTAW AIR FORCE BASE: turn right there, and go until you can see the gate, turn right at dirt road just before the gate. Go 5 miles on the well-graded dirt road and stay to right until you get to campsite.
Comments: this is a great paddling and/or camping weekend. Grassy Point is located below Milton, FL and near Boiling Creek. It is another pristine area run by Northwest Florida water management district (they own Econfina Creek). No permit is needed and camping is primitive with clean portapotti's. We will paddle from the campground into a beautiful estuary and just north of the site is an inlet where there are a great number of osprey nests and it is supposed to be quite spectacular...then return for potluck dinner, drumming and campfire stories.
Bring food to share if you are staying for dinner and/or camping. This is a pure white sandy beach lagoon with huge live oaks to camp under...pristine.
Boiling Creek, Eglin AFB, FL Mother's Day Paddle
Date: May 8, 2005
Time: 10:00 AM
Contact: Gary Worob (850) 259-9337 gworob@yahoo.com
Directions: take route I-10 east to the Milton exit/rt.87, go south for a few miles and cross a long bridge over the Yellow River and turn left into parking lot to meet for shuttle.
Comments: BRING CURRENT GREEN EGLIN AIR FORCE RECREATION PASS, A MUST. Bring liquids and lunch and something to share on Mother's Day and a bathing suit, or not. severe weather date: the next weekend.
Johnson's Beach, FL - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
Date: May 20-21, 2005
Time: afternoon
Contact: Larry McDuff 251-928-1582
Directions: Put in at Big Lagoon State Park
Comments: Call Larry to sign up and get more detailed information about meeting time and directions to put-in. Overnight camping trip, beginner friendly, on a barrier island in the National Seashore system. Will return early Saturday morning.
Full Moon Paddle - Bay Minette Basin, Spanish Fort, AL
Date: May 21, 2005
Time: 6:30 PM
Contact: Bob Andrews 251-367-4144
Directions: Meet at Buzbee's on Hwy 225 about 2 mi. north of Hwy 31 (Bruno's in Spanish Fort)
Comments: There is a $3 fee per boat to put-in. This will be a moderate pace and distance out into Bay Minette Basin to see the flowers, birds, sunset and full moon risin'. Bring snacks, drinks and the usual items listed in FAQ, as well as a working flashlight for night safety.
Phatwater Tour
Date: May 21, 2005
Time: morning
Place: Natchez, MS
Contact: Keith Benoist Cell: 601 431-1731, Evening Phone: (601) 445-8843
E-mail: keith@kayakmississippi.com
Comments: Anyone interested in attending is welcome. Please contact me at the earliest to work out details. This is a tour, and has no club affiliation, so you will be on you own, insofar as insurance is concerned. You need also to assess your individual paddling skills and level of endurance, as this is a 45 mile paddle, and will take anywhere from six to seven hours to complete. If anyone has specific questions, please email me and let's get the kinks worked out in advance.
Hurricane Landing, AL
Date: May 22, 2005
Time: 2:00 PM
Contact: Brint Adams - 583-9919 cell
Directions: We will meet at 1:30 PM at Bruno's in Spanish Fort at Hwy 31 & Hwy 225 to caravan or you may go directly to Hurricane Landing.
Comments: This will be a beginner-friendly slow paddle up/back beautiful Hurricane Creek. The parking fee is $3. Bring the usual items listed under FAQ.
A large crowd with many new faces came to the May meeting. Tom Meyer mentioned that the annual Bayou La Fourche trip may be postponed from this fall to the spring of 2006. He will check into further and report any updated news. This may impact any future plans of ours to possibly host a similar paddle trip on the Mobile/Tensaw delta.
Eastern Shore Land Trust is looking for help in the form of any good photos of local wetlands, animals, birds, flowers, etc., anything worthy of preservation, to be used in the design of a new informational pamphlet. Contact Philip Dyson, secretary of ESLT at sewane13d@aol.com to send photos by mail or electronically.
Chief Ron Emrich and Petty Officer Latner of the US Coast Guard gave an informative presentation titled, America's Waterway Watch. It is the Coast Guard's Department of Homeland Security Maritime Outreach Program encouraging citizens to watch for any suspicious behavior on the waterways, and if seen, to contact their hotline. The 24 hour hotline numbers are 1-800-424-8802 and 1-877-24watch. Pamphlets, boat stickers and wallet cards were given to those present. For more information about this program, you may click on americas waterway watch.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
BRING YOUR MOTHER TO CAMP & PADDLE WITH GARY ON MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND
Dates: Saturday, May 7 at Grassy Point, FL with or without camping and
Sunday, May 8 at Boiling Creek, Eglin Air Force Base, FL
Times: 10:00 AM each day
Details: this is a great paddling and/or camping weekend:
Grassy Point is located below Milton, FL and near Boiling Creek. It is another pristine area run by Northwest Florida water management district (they own Econfina Creek). No permit is needed and camping is primitive with clean portapotti's.
Directions: take route I-10 east to the Milton exit/rt.87, as if you were going to Boiling Creek.
Go past the Yellow River bridge to the first paved road on the right (west side). There will be a sign saying OLF CHOCTAW AIR FORCE BASE: turn right there, and go until you can see the gate, turn right at dirt road just before the gate. Go 5 miles on the well-graded dirt road and stay to right until you get to campsite. I will bring directions to meeting and post as we get closer. We will paddle from campground into beautiful estuary and then with good weather, across to Nichol's Seafood Restaurant for late lunch/early dinner and back for campfire stories.
Bring food for dinner in case the water is too rough to paddle; water , etc. This is a pure white sandy beach lagoon with huge live oaks to camp under...pristine.
SUNDAY: BOILING CREEK AND MOTHER'S DAY PADDLE
meet at Rt. 87 bridge over the Yellow River, south of I-10 at 10:00 am
BRING EGLIN AIR FORCE RECREATION PASS, A MUST. Bring liquids and lunch and something to share on Mother's Day and a bathing suit, or not.
severe weather date: the next weekend.
Dates: Saturday, May 7 at Grassy Point, FL with or without camping and
Sunday, May 8 at Boiling Creek, Eglin Air Force Base, FL
Times: 10:00 AM each day
Details: this is a great paddling and/or camping weekend:
Grassy Point is located below Milton, FL and near Boiling Creek. It is another pristine area run by Northwest Florida water management district (they own Econfina Creek). No permit is needed and camping is primitive with clean portapotti's.
Directions: take route I-10 east to the Milton exit/rt.87, as if you were going to Boiling Creek.
Go past the Yellow River bridge to the first paved road on the right (west side). There will be a sign saying OLF CHOCTAW AIR FORCE BASE: turn right there, and go until you can see the gate, turn right at dirt road just before the gate. Go 5 miles on the well-graded dirt road and stay to right until you get to campsite. I will bring directions to meeting and post as we get closer. We will paddle from campground into beautiful estuary and then with good weather, across to Nichol's Seafood Restaurant for late lunch/early dinner and back for campfire stories.
Bring food for dinner in case the water is too rough to paddle; water , etc. This is a pure white sandy beach lagoon with huge live oaks to camp under...pristine.
SUNDAY: BOILING CREEK AND MOTHER'S DAY PADDLE
meet at Rt. 87 bridge over the Yellow River, south of I-10 at 10:00 am
BRING EGLIN AIR FORCE RECREATION PASS, A MUST. Bring liquids and lunch and something to share on Mother's Day and a bathing suit, or not.
severe weather date: the next weekend.
MAD RIVER 'MONARCH' CANOE - FOR SALE
Gary Worob advises:
John Fox , jfox@moisd.org has a Mad River Monarch for sale...good price $1,500...it is white like Bob Andrews' and the same design as Gary Worob's. For those unfamiliar with this model, it is a relatively fast, sleek, partially closed-top canoe, which is often mistaken for a kayak.
The boat is in Michigan and you will need to contact John for details.
Gary bought his from Michigan also, and had it shipped via Roadway Express, with no problems.
According to Gary, this is a good price and the boat looks good on the internet. It is listed on paddling.net under classified ads (search for Mad River).
Gary Worob advises:
John Fox , jfox@moisd.org has a Mad River Monarch for sale...good price $1,500...it is white like Bob Andrews' and the same design as Gary Worob's. For those unfamiliar with this model, it is a relatively fast, sleek, partially closed-top canoe, which is often mistaken for a kayak.
The boat is in Michigan and you will need to contact John for details.
Gary bought his from Michigan also, and had it shipped via Roadway Express, with no problems.
According to Gary, this is a good price and the boat looks good on the internet. It is listed on paddling.net under classified ads (search for Mad River).
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
****FLASH PADDLE**** STYX RIVER
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2005
Time: 1:30 PM
Place: Meet at the BP truckstop at the Wilcox Road exit 53 on I-10 towards Pensacola
Contact: Brint Adams 251-583-9919 cell
Comments: Please call in advance, so I will know how many to prepare for, as we will need to shuttle vehicles for this one-way downstream paddle. It will be a very easy paddle with a good current to float downstream, taking about 1-1.5 hours. Bring the usual items listed on the FAQ link.
Date: Saturday, April 30, 2005
Time: 1:30 PM
Place: Meet at the BP truckstop at the Wilcox Road exit 53 on I-10 towards Pensacola
Contact: Brint Adams 251-583-9919 cell
Comments: Please call in advance, so I will know how many to prepare for, as we will need to shuttle vehicles for this one-way downstream paddle. It will be a very easy paddle with a good current to float downstream, taking about 1-1.5 hours. Bring the usual items listed on the FAQ link.
!!!!MONTHLY MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT!!!! TUESDAY, MAY 3, 2005 AT 7:00 PM
The May meeting of the MBCAKC will be at the Fairhope Yacht Club and feature Chief Ron Emrich and Petty Officer Latner of the US Coast Guard. Their presentation is called the America's Waterway Watch. It is the Coast Guard's Department of Homeland Security Maritime Outreach Program that asks those who work, live, or recreate on or near the water to be aware of suspicious activity that might indicate threats to our country's homeland security. They will show a 14 minute CD Film, and hand out decals and pamphlets.
This will be different from recent programs and should be quite interesting to see how we can help, what to look for and who we should contact.
The May meeting of the MBCAKC will be at the Fairhope Yacht Club and feature Chief Ron Emrich and Petty Officer Latner of the US Coast Guard. Their presentation is called the America's Waterway Watch. It is the Coast Guard's Department of Homeland Security Maritime Outreach Program that asks those who work, live, or recreate on or near the water to be aware of suspicious activity that might indicate threats to our country's homeland security. They will show a 14 minute CD Film, and hand out decals and pamphlets.
This will be different from recent programs and should be quite interesting to see how we can help, what to look for and who we should contact.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
FLASH PADDLE - EASTERN SHORE SUNSET PADDLE
Date: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Start: 6:00 PM, Finish: 8:00-9:00 PM
Contact: Rob Nykvist (kayaker@mchsi.com) Phone: 460-4646 Work, 423-0015 Cell
Place: Fairhope Municipal Pier Boat Ramp Area
Distance: 6-7 Miles, Leisurely 2-3 mph pace.
Route: South along the eastern shore beach for an hour or so, take a quick break, then return.
Comments: Do you like sunsets, watching stars appear in the evening, and watching shore lights dance on the calming waters of the darkening evening? Weather permitting, this paddle will provide it. Also, if you are still out test-paddling boats at the Fairhope Boat Demo Day (until 5:00 PM, same day, same location), this can be your first trip after buying.
Also note below, the full trip description for the May 1 Blessing of the Fleet paddle is now included on the April Club Calendar.
Date: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Start: 6:00 PM, Finish: 8:00-9:00 PM
Contact: Rob Nykvist (kayaker@mchsi.com) Phone: 460-4646 Work, 423-0015 Cell
Place: Fairhope Municipal Pier Boat Ramp Area
Distance: 6-7 Miles, Leisurely 2-3 mph pace.
Route: South along the eastern shore beach for an hour or so, take a quick break, then return.
Comments: Do you like sunsets, watching stars appear in the evening, and watching shore lights dance on the calming waters of the darkening evening? Weather permitting, this paddle will provide it. Also, if you are still out test-paddling boats at the Fairhope Boat Demo Day (until 5:00 PM, same day, same location), this can be your first trip after buying.
Also note below, the full trip description for the May 1 Blessing of the Fleet paddle is now included on the April Club Calendar.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
The second submission to our Prose and Poetry site was sent in by Tom Meyer (composed by Mike Pedde). Maybe this will encourage others to send in and share their favorite paddling, or other outdoors writings. We will review and post either original works, or those from your favorite authors (just no long novels, please).
Monday, April 11, 2005
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
April Club Calendar
Boiling Creek - upper section
Date: Friday, April 8, 2005
Time: 8:00 AM
Contact: Bob Andrews 251-367-4144
Place: meet at BP Truckstop at I-10 Wilcox Rd exit
Comments: Call ahead to Bob if you plan to go, so he will have a count and be able to get back to you if any plans change, such as weather.
Lower Delta (maybe Whiskey Ditch)
Date: Sunday, April 10, 2005
Time: afternoon
Contact: Bob Andrews 251-367-4144
Place: maybe old Riverdocs parking lot
Comments: Call ahead to Bob if you plan to go, so he will have a count and be able to get back to you if any plans change, such as weather.
Whiskey Ditch
Date: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Time: 1:30 PM
Contact: Gary Worob (850) 259-9337 gworob@yahoo.com
Place: From Spanish Fort, go west towards Mobile on the Causeway, to 100 meters past Ed's Seafood Shed. The gravel/dirt free parking lot put-in area is on the north side of the highway.
Comments: This will be a beginner-friendly paddle of about 4 miles up/back east on Pass Picada, north on Apalachee River and west into Whiskey Ditch. The spider lilies should be blooming and possibly blue flag iris as well. For those interested, some may go to dinner afterwards somewhere on the Causeway.
Fairhope Boat Demo Day at Earth Day
Date: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Contact: Fairhope Boat Co - 251-928-3417
Place: Fairhope Municipal Pier, Fairhope Ave on Mobile Bay
Comments: Come and check out and test ride many different types of kayaks and canoes. Mention that you are a MBCAKC member for free admission. Come early, buy a boat and head for the Whiskey Ditch paddle in the afternoon.
Moonlight Paddle - Byrne's Lake to Gravine Island
Date: Friday, April 22, 2005
Time: 5:45 PM (or 6:00 PM if you go directly to Byrne's Lake)
Contact: Brint Adams 251-583-9919 or email
Place: Bruno's, Spanish Fort - Hwy 31 & Hwy 225, we will caravan from there
Comments: We will paddle out Byrne's Lake, cross Tensaw River and stop up at the north end of Gravine Island on the high sand dune. We will have potluck hors d'oevres and drinks under the moonlight and then back by the same route. Bring a flashlight for safety, blanket or chairs, and some food to share.
Blessing of the Fleet
Date: Sunday, May 1, 2005
Time: 9:00 AM
Contact: Rob Nykvist kayaker@mchsi.com Phone: 460-4646 Work, 423-0015 Cell
Place: Public Boat Ramp, Bayou La Batre, AL
Directions: For those of you not sure where the public boat ramp is, meet in the parking lot just south of Hardees in Theodore. That is at the NW corner of the intersection of Hwy 90 @ Island Rd/Hamilton Blvd. Be there before 8:15 AM and I will lead you 15 miles south to the launch site.
Distance: 8-10 Miles at a leisurely 2-3 mph pace.
Route: Start at the Bayou La Batre public boat ramp and go upstream. At about 2.5 miles, we'll go under the Lift Bridge. From there, we'll continue upstream away from the industrial areas for another 1-2 miles. There are a few areas we might consider getting out at to take a snack break. There are a few short side streams to explore. At about 11:00 we'll turn around and start the return trip.
Comments: If you like seeing shrimp boats, you'll enjoy this trip. There will be more boat traffic than normal, but most operate at idle speeds in Bayou La Batre. I'm trying to time this trip to avoid traffic shut down, because there is a land parade at 3:00 PM and a boat parade after that. If you are interested in both kayaking and attending the Festival, check out this link for more Blessing of the Fleet info: http://www.fleetblessing.org/fb.html
There were about 30 people in attendance. After paddle announcements, Tom Meyer gave an outline of his preliminary discussions with leaders from Mobile Bay National Estuary Program about holding a spring paddling/camping event in the Mobile Tensaw Delta area. This would have similarities to the successfully run Paddle Bayou La Fourche, held for the past four years. The 2004 event was held on November 12-15 as an initiative of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program and supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources Coastal Restoration and Management.
Here is the link for the 2004 Paddle Bayou La Fourche event, the link for the Barataria-Terrebonne NEP and the link for the Mobile Bay NEP. Tom is looking for local club interest and support in helping the Mobile Bay NEP organize an event in our area. If you are interested in helping make this happen, come to the next MBCAKC meeting or contact Tom at (251)680-4445 or email Tom
Boiling Creek - upper section
Date: Friday, April 8, 2005
Time: 8:00 AM
Contact: Bob Andrews 251-367-4144
Place: meet at BP Truckstop at I-10 Wilcox Rd exit
Comments: Call ahead to Bob if you plan to go, so he will have a count and be able to get back to you if any plans change, such as weather.
Lower Delta (maybe Whiskey Ditch)
Date: Sunday, April 10, 2005
Time: afternoon
Contact: Bob Andrews 251-367-4144
Place: maybe old Riverdocs parking lot
Comments: Call ahead to Bob if you plan to go, so he will have a count and be able to get back to you if any plans change, such as weather.
Whiskey Ditch
Date: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Time: 1:30 PM
Contact: Gary Worob (850) 259-9337 gworob@yahoo.com
Place: From Spanish Fort, go west towards Mobile on the Causeway, to 100 meters past Ed's Seafood Shed. The gravel/dirt free parking lot put-in area is on the north side of the highway.
Comments: This will be a beginner-friendly paddle of about 4 miles up/back east on Pass Picada, north on Apalachee River and west into Whiskey Ditch. The spider lilies should be blooming and possibly blue flag iris as well. For those interested, some may go to dinner afterwards somewhere on the Causeway.
Fairhope Boat Demo Day at Earth Day
Date: Sunday, April 17, 2005
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Contact: Fairhope Boat Co - 251-928-3417
Place: Fairhope Municipal Pier, Fairhope Ave on Mobile Bay
Comments: Come and check out and test ride many different types of kayaks and canoes. Mention that you are a MBCAKC member for free admission. Come early, buy a boat and head for the Whiskey Ditch paddle in the afternoon.
Moonlight Paddle - Byrne's Lake to Gravine Island
Date: Friday, April 22, 2005
Time: 5:45 PM (or 6:00 PM if you go directly to Byrne's Lake)
Contact: Brint Adams 251-583-9919 or email
Place: Bruno's, Spanish Fort - Hwy 31 & Hwy 225, we will caravan from there
Comments: We will paddle out Byrne's Lake, cross Tensaw River and stop up at the north end of Gravine Island on the high sand dune. We will have potluck hors d'oevres and drinks under the moonlight and then back by the same route. Bring a flashlight for safety, blanket or chairs, and some food to share.
Blessing of the Fleet
Date: Sunday, May 1, 2005
Time: 9:00 AM
Contact: Rob Nykvist kayaker@mchsi.com Phone: 460-4646 Work, 423-0015 Cell
Place: Public Boat Ramp, Bayou La Batre, AL
Directions: For those of you not sure where the public boat ramp is, meet in the parking lot just south of Hardees in Theodore. That is at the NW corner of the intersection of Hwy 90 @ Island Rd/Hamilton Blvd. Be there before 8:15 AM and I will lead you 15 miles south to the launch site.
Distance: 8-10 Miles at a leisurely 2-3 mph pace.
Route: Start at the Bayou La Batre public boat ramp and go upstream. At about 2.5 miles, we'll go under the Lift Bridge. From there, we'll continue upstream away from the industrial areas for another 1-2 miles. There are a few areas we might consider getting out at to take a snack break. There are a few short side streams to explore. At about 11:00 we'll turn around and start the return trip.
Comments: If you like seeing shrimp boats, you'll enjoy this trip. There will be more boat traffic than normal, but most operate at idle speeds in Bayou La Batre. I'm trying to time this trip to avoid traffic shut down, because there is a land parade at 3:00 PM and a boat parade after that. If you are interested in both kayaking and attending the Festival, check out this link for more Blessing of the Fleet info: http://www.fleetblessing.org/fb.html
There were about 30 people in attendance. After paddle announcements, Tom Meyer gave an outline of his preliminary discussions with leaders from Mobile Bay National Estuary Program about holding a spring paddling/camping event in the Mobile Tensaw Delta area. This would have similarities to the successfully run Paddle Bayou La Fourche, held for the past four years. The 2004 event was held on November 12-15 as an initiative of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program and supported by the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources Coastal Restoration and Management.
Here is the link for the 2004 Paddle Bayou La Fourche event, the link for the Barataria-Terrebonne NEP and the link for the Mobile Bay NEP. Tom is looking for local club interest and support in helping the Mobile Bay NEP organize an event in our area. If you are interested in helping make this happen, come to the next MBCAKC meeting or contact Tom at (251)680-4445 or email Tom
Thursday, March 31, 2005
Don Prosch to perform with The Alabama Contemporary Dance Company
When: Saturday, April 9, 2005 at 7:30 PM
Where: Saenger Theatre in downtown Mobile
Comments: Don Prosch, one of our new kayak enthusiasts, will be performing in his human-sized GyroGym to music by Erik Satie & Tom Petty in concert with The Alabama Contemporary Dance Company. Director Candice Christakos Prosch will also feature an evening of new dance works entitled "Fresh Start." Alabama Contemporary Dance will be joined by the Le Flore High School dancers performing "Moving Images." Tickets are $12 adults & $7 for children, students, and seniors. The program promises an exciting evening of modern dance, entertaining for the entire family.
When: Saturday, April 9, 2005 at 7:30 PM
Where: Saenger Theatre in downtown Mobile
Comments: Don Prosch, one of our new kayak enthusiasts, will be performing in his human-sized GyroGym to music by Erik Satie & Tom Petty in concert with The Alabama Contemporary Dance Company. Director Candice Christakos Prosch will also feature an evening of new dance works entitled "Fresh Start." Alabama Contemporary Dance will be joined by the Le Flore High School dancers performing "Moving Images." Tickets are $12 adults & $7 for children, students, and seniors. The program promises an exciting evening of modern dance, entertaining for the entire family.
Monday, March 28, 2005
Out of town paddler looking for a trip this weekend
My name is Chris Donovan. I'm a kayaker from near Chicago. I found out that I will be driving to Fairhope the weekend of April 1st (arriving Thursday night, March 31st) with my wife and I am looking for some suggestions for day trips. I'm planning on paddling Friday, Saturday and Sunday (the 1st-3rd). I'm looking for trips anywhere from 10 to 15 miles long or 6 to 8 hours long. I'd classify myself as an intermediate paddler and I am used to paddling solo or with groups. I'm bringing my own gear, an NDK Explorer, PFD, paddles, VHF, GPS, etc. I plan on purchasing charts as soon as I determine what day trips are good candidates. If you can help me out or point me in the right direction, I'd really appreciate it.
I was hoping to get at least one day of open-water padding and one day in the rivers, lakes, and creeks. The third day I'd just leave for whatever comes up.
Please contact me by email, if you are interested in paddling with me.
Chris Donovan cdonovan@xnet.com
My name is Chris Donovan. I'm a kayaker from near Chicago. I found out that I will be driving to Fairhope the weekend of April 1st (arriving Thursday night, March 31st) with my wife and I am looking for some suggestions for day trips. I'm planning on paddling Friday, Saturday and Sunday (the 1st-3rd). I'm looking for trips anywhere from 10 to 15 miles long or 6 to 8 hours long. I'd classify myself as an intermediate paddler and I am used to paddling solo or with groups. I'm bringing my own gear, an NDK Explorer, PFD, paddles, VHF, GPS, etc. I plan on purchasing charts as soon as I determine what day trips are good candidates. If you can help me out or point me in the right direction, I'd really appreciate it.
I was hoping to get at least one day of open-water padding and one day in the rivers, lakes, and creeks. The third day I'd just leave for whatever comes up.
Please contact me by email, if you are interested in paddling with me.
Chris Donovan cdonovan@xnet.com
Weeks Bay Reserve Research Symposium
Friday, 22 April, 2005 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Weeks Bay Reserve Auditorium, Fairhope, AL
This CTP sponsored Weeks Bay Reserve Research Symposium features presentations and poster displays about research findings in our watershed. Invited speakers include independent researchers, university students and faculty, National Estuarine Research Reserve System Graduate Research Fellows, and the Reserve staff.The varied topics include species diversity, nutrient loading, habitat restoration, and the impacts of mercury contamination. A complete agenda will be available soon. Contact me with any questions and for reservations.
Sincerely, Cheryl
Cheryl D. McClary, Coastal Training Program CoordinatorWeeks Bay Reserve, ADCNR-Lands-Coastal Section11300 U.S. Highway 98Fairhope, Alabama 36532Phone: 251.928.9792Fax: 251.928.1792cmcclary@dcnr.state.al.us
Funding for this project provided by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, State Lands Division, Coastal Section, in part, by a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management.
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Welcome back to Rob Nykvist, who has been out of town for the past nine months. I am confident he will be back leading a few paddle trips again as he had in past years. Rob has started a new weblog including photos, which is linked over in the right column, so take a look at it and see where Rob has been lately. Note: Rob has already announced early plans to lead a paddle on Sunday, May 1st in Bayou La Batre for the Blessing of the Fleet. More detailed information will follow later.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
