blog/ en smhollings@gmail.com Copyright 2012 2012-05-12T19:54:09+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/7th-annual-white-salmon-riverfest-and-symposium-is-coming-soon/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/7th-annual-white-salmon-riverfest-and-symposium-is-coming-soon/#When:19:54:09Z The 7th Annual White Salmon Riverfest and Symposium is shaping up to be the biggest celebration of our river ever.  On Saturday June 9th we'll take you on a full-tour of the White Salmon River, help you take home awesome prizes from your favorite local businesses and river gear manufacterers, and give you some stompin good music for dancin the night away.   We invite local community members, kayaking and rafting enthusiasts, and visitors to come immerse yourself in this mighty river for one great day of events that include an exclusive tour of the Condit Dam site, a Community Raft Trip, kayak and raft races and much more.    The 7th Annual White Salmon Riverfest and Symposium is shaping up to be the biggest celebration of our river ever.  On Saturday June 9th we'll take you on a full-tour of the White Salmon River, help you take home awesome prizes from your favorite local businesses and river gear manufacturers, and give you some stompin' good music to celebrate into the evening.   We invite local community members, kayaking and rafting enthusiasts, and visitors to come immerse yourself in this mighty river for one great day of events.   This is the year to celebrate the White Salmon River as it is now flowing freely for the first time in over 100 years.  The White Salmon River is not just a premier rafting and kayaking destination.  It's not just a pristine habitat for the endangered species of salmon and steelhead.  And it's not just a source for peaceful enjoyment of the outdoors.   It's all of this and more. The White Salmon River flows through farms and communities.  It provides water to thousands and a source of enjoyment to millions.  With the removal of Condit Dam, the salmon and steelhead will soon return to their historic breeding grounds, rejuvinating the ecology and local economy of the region.   This year's Riverfest seeks to capture that spirit of celebration, appreciation, and gratitude for the river that gives us so much.   Schedule of Riverfest and Symposium Events: 9:30 am: Tour of Condit Dam (limited to the first 48 people!) 12:00 pm: Kayak and Raft Races down the Middle White Salmon 12:00 pm: Community Raft Float for locals only (Reserve your spot today!  Space is limited!) 4:00 pm: Symposium presentations on the return of fish and river restoration efforts from Yakima Nations Fisheries, PacifiCorp and Friends of the White Salmon River. 6:00 pm: BBQ, Raffle drawings 7:30 pm: Live music from the Shed Shakers Raising Money for a Healthy, Free-flowing River We are proud to announce that all profits from this year's entry fees and raffle will be donated to two organizations that have worked tirelessly to speak up for the river.   The Friends of the White Salmon, FWSR, has used grassroots passion to speak up for the river, helping to protect its pristine waters from further degradation and assisting in restoring fish passage to the river system.  While FWSR has gathered momentum locally, our friends at American Whitewater have helped raise awareness, access funds, and support on a national level.  Please help us keep this momentum going with your support. Entry Fees:   $25: Dam Tour + Community Raft Trip $10: BBQ, Symposium and Live Music $15: Dam Tour + Kayak Races + BBQ, Symposium, music Raffle Bonanza Your donation to the Riverfest could bring a big return.  This year's raffle includes gift certificates, river gear, wine, and goods from local organizations and national river gear manufacturers.  Check out our Riverfest Blog for a list of this year's sponsors.  You're sure to walk away with something!   All the ingredients for a river festival are there, except for you!   Kayaking, News, Rafting, Wet Planet Community 2012-05-12T19:54:09+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/rafting-a-new-river-river-network-celebrates-the-white-salmon-river-at-the-/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/rafting-a-new-river-river-network-celebrates-the-white-salmon-river-at-the-/#When:17:38:17Z When 700 advocates for clean water come together, there is a lot of celebration.  Add whitewater rafting in, and the celebration only gets bigger. Talking about solutions, successes and ways to protect our water resources even more, these river warriors created momentum during the 3 day conference that will carry them back to their home watersheds throughout the nation, helping to continue to fight for clean water.  There is nothing like River Network's annual River Rally and the Waterkeeper Alliance gathering.  This year, the event came to Portland, Oregon.  Wet Planet happily hosted a field trip for 48 lucky participants to explore the newly freed White Salmon River.  When 700 advocates for clean water come together, there is a lot of celebration.  Add whitewater rafting in, and the celebration only gets bigger. Talking about solutions, successes and ways to protect our water resources even more, these river warriors created momentum during the 3 day conference that will carry them back to their home watersheds throughout the nation, helping to continue to fight for clean water.   There is nothing like River Network's annual River Rally and the Waterkeeper Alliance gathering.  This year, the event came to Portland, Oregon.  Wet Planet happily hosted a field trip for 48 lucky participants to explore the newly freed White Salmon River. The day began with a tour of the Condit Dam deconstruction site with PacifiCorp's Russ Howison.  Not just your average tourists, these individuals have a broad appreciation for the preservation of rivers.  In their hometowns they work for local governments, watershed associations and non-profits on similar issues.   After seeing media from Condit Dam's big blast last October, the group was excited to see the action in-person.   Heading up to Wet Planet's riverside headquarters, they pulled on a wet suit, buckled up a PFD and snapped on a helmet to hit the water themselves.  The whitewater rafting trip blasted through the class III-IV rapids of the Wild & Scenic stretch of the White Salmon River and floated into the top of the former Nothwestern Lake reservoir corridor. Evidence of the former reservoir appeared along the shoreline with slight erosion.  One foot of drop, then two, then three from the river level to the riparian zone.  Suddenly the river seemed to pick up speed, as the newly revealed bedrock walls, pouring springs, and ancient old-groth stumps towered over our heads.  By the time we rolled beneath the Northwestern Lake bridge, we were deep in the new canyon.  Check out these photos as we floated further into the top of the reservoir. It was an amazing taste of our new free-flowing river.  An ecosystem is coming back to life and we can't wait to see the entire new stretch this September after deconstruction is complete. To celebrate our river, we plan to help Friends of the White Salmon River in their celebration to the newly-opened river this fall.  Stay tuned for event updates to come!     Author Susan Hollingsworth writes for Wet Planet Whitewater, Canoe & Kayak Magazine, American Whitewater, and any other river-related publication she can find. Rafting, Wet Planet Community 2012-05-12T17:38:17+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/hike-25-gorge-waterfalls-and-win-a-raft-trip-for-six-with-wet-planet/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/hike-25-gorge-waterfalls-and-win-a-raft-trip-for-six-with-wet-planet/#When:22:15:05Z The abundant recreation potential within the Columbia River Gorge attracts rafters, kiters, bikers, kayakers, skiers and just about every other type of outdoor enthusiast. However, many of the remote wildflower meadows, sparkling waterfalls and sweeping vistas can only be reached with a sturdy pair of hiking boots and a packed lunch. Helping to get more people out on the trail, Friends of the Columbia Gorge offers a competition for the intrepid hikers with a bit of whitewater from Wet Planet as a reward.The abundant recreation potential within the Columbia River Gorge attracts rafters, kiters, bikers, kayakers, skiers and just about every other type of outdoor enthusiast. However, many of the remote wildflower meadows, sparkling waterfalls and sweeping vistas can only be reached with a sturdy pair of hiking boots and a packed lunch. Helping to get more people out on the trail, Friends of the Columbia Gorge offers a competition for the intrepid hikers with a bit of whitewater from Wet Planet as a reward. For over 30 years, Friends of the Columbia Gorge has worked to protect the stunning scenic, cultural, recreational and rural qualities of the Northwest's biggest river gorge. While much of their time behind the scenes is spent advocating for the protection of the Gorge's natural resources, Friends also educates the public with over a hundred free guided hikes every year. This year, hikers are challenged to visit 25 of the Columbia River Gorge's most spectacular waterfalls through the Waterfall Wanderlust Hiking Challenge.  From the three-tiered Falls Creek Falls to the thundering Wahclella Falls, each magnificent vista will get a checkmark on the trail log of participants.  Competitors have from March 1st to October 31st to get them all in, averaging 2-3 waterfall hikes per month.  Check out this Waterfall Google Map to start planning your attack. After seeing 25 waterfalls throughout the Gorge, the winner of the competition will be able experience a waterfall in a different way. Wet Planet proudly donated a White Salmon River whitewater rafting trip for 6 people as the grand prize. The lucky winner will be drawn in November from participants who submit their waterfall checklist. He or she will be able to let their legs rest from all that hiking, hopping in a raft to discover the beauty of the Gorge from the river's perspective. If the time of year is right, they may even be able to raft over Husum Falls, the nation's tallest commercially raftable waterfall. Getting out to discover the magnificence of the Columbia River Gorge has been made easier by Friends of the Columbia River Gorge, both in offering outdoor trips for physical exploration and through advocacy work that has helped the gorge stay wild and beautiful. We are proud to help more people discover the incredible Columbia River Gorge recreation potential with this wonderful organization.   Author Susan Hollingsworth writes for Wet Planet Whitewater, Canoe & Kayak Magazine, American Whitewater, and any other river-related publication she can find. Rafting, Wet Planet Community 2012-04-20T22:15:05+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/lower-white-salmon-river-take-out-officially-opened/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/lower-white-salmon-river-take-out-officially-opened/#When:21:38:46Z If you haven't heard yet, it's official. PacifiCorp announced yesterday that the construction on the temporary take-out at Northwestern Park is complete. We let you know in the last Condit Dam Watch post that PacifiCorp was close to completing construction on the temporary take-out. Well, turns out they really were close to completion. Boaters are now able to use the take-out when running the White Salmon River. PacifiCorp does advise that boaters be aware of and cautious with the ongoing construction in the area of the park. The following is the email we received yesterday from PacifiCorp with the official announcement: "Re: NW Park Takeout Update:Please be advised that the temporary boat ramp at NW Park is ready for use. Please be aware of construction fencing and construction traffic within and around the park.Signage is on order and will be placed in the next two weeks. Arianne " So, our trips this weekend will be the first White Salmon River trips to float the new section of river down to Northwestern (used to be lake) Park.If you haven't heard yet, it's official. PacifiCorp announced yesterday that the construction on the temporary take-out at Northwestern Park is complete. We let you know in the last Condit Dam Watch post that PacifiCorp was close to completing construction on the temporary take-out. Well, turns out they really were close to completion. Boaters are now able to use the take-out when running the White Salmon River. PacifiCorp does advise that boaters be aware of and cautious with the ongoing construction in the area of the park. The following is the email we received yesterday from PacifiCorp with the official announcement: "Re: NW Park Takeout Update:Please be advised that the temporary boat ramp at NW Park is ready for use. Please be aware of construction fencing and construction traffic within and around the park.Signage is on order and will be placed in the next two weeks. Arianne " So, our rafting trips this weekend will be the first White Salmon River trips to float the new section of river down to Northwestern (used to be lake) Park. Author Todd Collins lives on the White Salmon River in BZ Corner and works year round for Wet Planet. Kayaking, Rafting, Wet Planet Community 2012-04-20T21:38:46+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/condit-dam-watch-hazards-removed-for-boating-access/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/condit-dam-watch-hazards-removed-for-boating-access/#When:16:27:48Z Deconstruction of the Condit Dam Project continues on schedule with another big hurdle crossed earlier than expected.  River recreation enthusiasts - especially those who have longed for the Lower White Salmon River's perfect class II-III whitewater - will be pleased to hear that the new take-out is only days away from completion, according to PacifiCorp's Project Manager, Russ Howison. As the erosion wore away at the thick mud slabs lining the river banks, the White Salmon River dropped lower into the canyon.  Three months after the initial draining of Northwestern Lake the timber crib bridge only just began to emerge from beneath the depths of the sediment.  The former bridge, serving as a sot of time capsule, stood in contrast with the Northwestern Lake bridge, just feet downstream.Deconstruction of the Condit Dam Project continues on schedule with another big hurdle crossed earlier than expected.  River recreation enthusiasts - especially those who have longed for the Lower White Salmon River's perfect class II-III whitewater - will be pleased to hear that the new take-out is only days away from completion, according to PacifiCorp's Project Manager, Russ Howison. As the erosion wore away at the thick mud slabs lining the river banks, the White Salmon River dropped lower into the canyon.  Three months after the initial draining of Northwestern Lake the timber crib bridge only just began to emerge from beneath the depths of the sediment.  The former bridge, serving as a sot of time capsule, stood in contrast with the Northwestern Lake bridge, just feet downstream. Within the last month PacifiCorp has extracted the bridge, removing the hazardous structure from the path of river travelers. "Good news, the contractor crew has successfully gotten the center timber crib structure out of the river channel above NW Lake Bridge," stated Howison in a letter to the local outfitters. "There is still quite a bit of debris removal and in-water work along the bank at this location so we will be working in the area for several more days to minimize hazards and stabilize the area as best we can." With this structure gone only one task stands in the way of opening the Lower White Salmon River to boaters: the take-out.  However, this is expected to happen within only a few short days. "We have also completed the major work on the temporary take-out at NW Park, and have a few tasks left to finish up.  We are currently planning to open the temporary take-out for public use this Friday, April 20. We will be sending out and update this Thursday to confirm but it is currently looking encouraging that the take-out will be open for the coming weekend," said Howison.  The temporary take-out will be located downstream of the former Northwestern Lake boat ramp access point.  The permanent whitewater take-out is still under construction and will be located upstream of the ramp.  Before heading out to the river this weekend, however, keep in mind that the lower river will only open if everything goes as planned.  With such a great track record for staying on or ahead of schdule, PacifiCorp will likely have things ready by Friday evening.   Author Susan Hollingsworth writes for Wet Planet Whitewater, Canoe & Kayak Magazine, American Whitewater, and any other river-related publication she can find. News 2012-04-17T16:27:48+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/northwestern-lake-park-take-out-update-from-pacificcorp/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/northwestern-lake-park-take-out-update-from-pacificcorp/#When:00:28:00Z We just received this update from PacifiCorp regarding the take-out at Northwestern Park. So, I figured I would just share the email. Looks like the temporary take-out should be ready in the next couple of weeks. Thanks to Russ Howison at PacifiCorp for keeping us up to date. Here's the email from PacifiCorp:We just received this update from PacifiCorp regarding the take-out at Northwestern Park. So, I figured I would just share the email. Looks like the temporary take-out should be ready in the next couple of weeks. Thanks to Russ Howison at PacifiCorp for keeping us up to date. Here's the email from PacifiCorp: "Greetings White Salmon Outfitters, PacifiCorp wanted to provide you the following update regarding the take-out at NW park and removal of the timber crib structures upstream of the park. First off, a high-flow event the weekend of March 31, caused additional erosion and down-cutting around the timber crib structures that are upstream of NW Lake bridge. This has made access to the crib in the middle of the channel more difficult and has cause us to reassess how best to remove it. The situation is extremely hazardous at this location and we strongly recommend all boaters take out at Husum until the timber crib structure is removed. We are working on plans to remove it and hope to have it out in approximately 2 weeks. We are also currently working on constructing the temporary takeout at NW Park and our current plan is to have this completed and ready to use by the time the timber cribs are removed and boats can safely pass through the area. As you can imagine, this is a very dynamic situation and I will keep you informed of our progress. Regarding the long term take-out, the project to better protect the west abutment of the NW Lake Bridge is scheduled to go into mid-late August. Therefore, the permanent take-out ramp will not be complete until sometime after that. Thus, the temporary ramp will serve through most of the recreation season. Finally, I would like to schedule a site visit to NW Park to discuss your ideas for how to make the temporary take-out work most efficiently for sometime the week of April 23. I would like to hear back from those who are interested in participating on your availability and will announce a date. Thank You, Russ HowisonHydro ResourcesPacifiCorp Energy" Author Todd Collins lives on the White Salmon River in BZ Corner and works year round for Wet Planet. 2012-04-07T00:28:00+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/gorge-owned-business-network-building-community-through-sustainability-supp/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/gorge-owned-business-network-building-community-through-sustainability-supp/#When:16:02:47Z Small businesses throughout the Columbia River Gorge have discovered an opportunity to be more proactive in both aligning their values with their business practices as well as building a bigger clientele. They are united under the Gorge Owned (GO!) Business Network, a membership-based organization with a mission to advance Gorge-owned businesses, non-profits and community members with a commitment to a sustainable and prosperous community. GO! provides education opportunities, practical solutions and valuable connections for local Gorge businesses. Running a small business can be more than a full-time job. By collecting information and providing a space for discussion and learning, GO! makes doing business easier and more rewarding for it's members. Falling in line with goals created for the Sustainable Tourism Eco-Certification, being a part of the GO! network is not only a benefit for Wet Planet, it is a joy.Small businesses throughout the Columbia River Gorge have discovered an opportunity to be more proactive in both aligning their values with their business practices as well as building a bigger clientele. They are united under the Gorge Owned (GO!) Business Network, a membership-based organization with a mission to advance Gorge-owned businesses, non-profits and community members with a commitment to a sustainable and prosperous community. GO! provides education opportunities, practical solutions and valuable connections for local Gorge businesses. Running a small business can be more than a full-time job. By collecting information and providing a space for discussion and learning, GO! makes doing business easier and more rewarding for it's members. Falling in line with our Sustainable Tourism Eco-Certification goals, being a part of the GO! network is not only a benefit for Wet Planet, it is a joy. Strength in Local Numbers Operating a whitewater rafting and kayaking center has a widespread impact on the local economy. While the primary focus is providing an enjoyable and safe adventure down the Gorge's most spectacular whitewater rivers, guests can also purchase souvenirs in the gift shop and eat a BBQ lunch by the riverside. Each of these services requires partnerships with other businesses. "As a business owner in a small community, I realize it is important to work together," comments Jaco Klinkenberg, Wet Planet co-owner and GO! board member. "We can help each other by seeking out products and services locally, and solving simple operational problems. Small businesses have to invent the wheel everyday, why not help each other out?" GO! and Eco-Certification The Gorge Owned Business Network is a natural extension of Wet Planet's sustainability policy. As a member of the GO! network, Wet Planet is excited to take a united stand for the sustainable use of our local resources. Sustainable Travel International, a leader in global tourism development, has helped Wet Planet create new practices and procedures, ultimately leading to the Sustainable Tourism Eco-Certification. GO! events help Wet Planet share our successes and failures with other small businesses and gain perspective on alternative solutions. Todd and Jaco, owners of Wet Planet, feel strongly enough about supporting these initiatives that they also volunteer their time as board members for the organization. However, Wet Planet owners and employees will tell you that being a GO! member is just another way of enjoying the place we all call home and the community of people who live here. Green Drinks Networking Events Spend an evening with your favorite Gorge Owned business leaders at GO!'s monthly Green Drinks networking event for business professionals, community leaders and residents interested in sustainability issues. The next Green Drinks is hosted at Skyline Hospital in White Salmon, the only locally owned and operated hospital in the Gorge, on Thursday April 12th, 2012. John Longfellow, the Recycling Coordinator for Klickitat County Solid Waste Department, will be discussing recycling options and programs available in the county. Plus... Beer provided by White Salmon's favorite brewer: Everybody's Brewery Light snacks provided by 10 Speed North Coffee House from their new catering menu Great views overlooking the Gorge and networking with the Gorge's sustainable businesses leaders FREE and open to the public!   Green Drinks at Wet Planet We are excited to host another summer Green Drinks event at our riverside headquarters on the White Salmon River. This year's event - on August 9th, 2012 - will highlight the restoration work on the White Salmon River. PacifiCorp expects the complete deconstruction of Condit Dam by early September. Come learn about the transition to a free-flowing river during August's GO! Green Drinks event.   Author Susan Hollingsworth writes for Wet Planet Whitewater, Canoe & Kayak Magazine, American Whitewater, and any other river-related publication she can find. Wet Planet Community 2012-04-06T16:02:47+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/sustainabie-business-practices-the-journey-continues/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/sustainabie-business-practices-the-journey-continues/#When:16:17:42Z The results from last year's sustainability practices data collection are in and it looks like Wet Planet is turning a brighter shade of "green."  After a season of hard work, we have finished our homework.  Sustainable Travel International has completed its annual review of our practices and given Wet Planet the STEP 2nd Party Evaluation Award.   The award is not just another fancy logo. It is the recognition of our commitment to what Sustainability means to us. We are also looking at the results of our efforts to begin tackling the upcoming season's goals.The results from last year's sustainability practices data collection are in and it looks like Wet Planet is turning a brighter shade of "green."  After a season of hard work, we have finished our homework.  Sustainable Travel International has completed their annual review of our practices and given Wet Planet the STEP 2nd Party Evaluation Award.   The award is not just another fancy logo. It is the recognition of our commitment to what Sustainability means to us. We are also looking at the results of our efforts to begin tackling the upcoming season's goals.  What does it mean to be Sustainable? Just as STI reviews our practices annually, so must we continually reflect on what it means to be sustainable.   "Sustainability, the word, can be a difficult concept to grasp," explains Nicole Lynch, Wet Planet's Sustainability Coordinator. She has had some time to reflect on what sustainability means to Wet Planet.   "Because the word's meaning can be so broad and complex, it helps to think of it in the context of our specific area and business. At Wet Planet, we see it as local stewardship: economic, social and environmental," says Lynch. Stewardship is defined as the responsibility of overseeing and protecting something considered worth caring for and preserving. Our definition combines what we value about the Columbia River Gorge and the White Salmon River, what we value about the people around us, and what we value about our products. With this, we can better understand what it takes to preserve these values, helping us to sustain our business and our livelihood without scarificing that which helps make it all happen. Wet Planet Sustainability Goals for 2012 1. Do more.   Sustainable Travel International helped us to identify easy, quantifiable changes. Two years ago, Nicole gathered the stats - she weighed the garbage and tracked down energy bills - and created a baseline data set. The baseline provides a comparison for future data collection. For instance, if the weight of total recycled materials increases, we are putting less waste in our landfills. Now, we look for ways to do more to further improve those stats. We can improve the systems that worked and refine the ones that didn't. 2. Develop a Culture of Consciousness through Sustainability Focus Group While Lynch and Wet Planet owners Todd Collins and Jaco Klinkenberg have been working hard at implementing new sustainability practices around the property, we hope that in 2012 a more diverse group of players within the 50-person Wet Planet Staff will come together to create a Sustainability Focus Group. Through collaboration, we may be able to improve upon our strategies and engage more of our employees in the process. "We will be more efficient if a few people have small, manageable tasks," says Lynch. "I would love to see the employees more engaged, involved, and proud of their employers' business practices they will have helped to institute and improve." 3. Assess new Wet Planet facilities and begin implementing procedures We'll begin by contacting the Klickitat County Energy Audit to gain insight on improving our energy efficiencies. Next, we will gather baseline data for our water and energy usage and waste output. From there, it becomes sustainability make-over time. Luckily, we've learned a lot in the past two years and will be able to make better decisions on the new property. Always Improving Our experiences out on the river, both on whitewater raft trips and during kayak courses, have taught us to never become complacent. We strive every season to hone our techniques: catching eddies, paddling with more efficient strokes, and exploring better ways to work together as a team. Our approach to sustainable business practices parallels this desire to improve. We look forward to increasing our efforts to attain STI's Intermediate, Advanced and Industry Standards levels of sustainable business practices. To learn more about Sustainable Travel International's 2nd Party Review procedure, take a look at their website.  We are proud to be a part of the STI family which represents tourism operators all over the world, helping sustainability become standard in the tourism sector world wide.   Author Susan Hollingsworth writes for Wet Planet Whitewater, Canoe & Kayak Magazine, American Whitewater, and any other river-related publication she can find.     News, Wet Planet Community 2012-04-04T16:17:42+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/whitewater-events-in-the-columbia-river-gorge-spring-2012/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/whitewater-events-in-the-columbia-river-gorge-spring-2012/#When:22:23:32Z One of the best parts of learning to raft or kayak is joining a community of people who view recreation, travel and adventure as a necessity in life.  They like nothing better than to come together, paddle through the most scenic landscapes, laugh around a campfire, and celebrate the rivers that helped them realize this fulfilling and passionate lifestyle.  Whitewater events bring together new and old friends, reminding us of the vast community of like-minded whitewater enthusiasts out there.  Be sure to hit up one, or all, of the spring 2012 line-up of whitewater festivals and races in the Columbia River Gorge, even if you don't plan on competing.  Northwest Creeking Competition Sandy River Showdown Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival Little White Salmon Extreme Kayak Race White Salmon River Fest and SymposiumOne of the best parts of learning to raft or kayak is joining a community of people who view recreation, travel and adventure as a necessity in life.  They like nothing better than to come together, paddle through the most scenic landscapes, laugh around a campfire, and celebrate the rivers that helped them realize this fulfilling and passionate lifestyle.  Whitewater events bring together new and old friends, reminding us of the vast community of like-minded whitewater enthusiasts out there.  Be sure to hit up one, or all, of the spring 2012 line-up of whitewater festivals and races in the Columbia River Gorge, even if you don't plan on competing.    Northwest Creeking Competition: April 21-22  The most popular race for whitewater kayakers and rafters in Washington, Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest, the Northwest Creeking Competition is two days full of races on two iconic whitewater rivers in southwestern Washington. Saturday, April 21: East Fork of the Lewis River Events Downriver sprint, class III-IV Mass start raft race, 2-person teams Mass start kayak race BBQ hosted by Next Adventure Awards Premier of Slippery When Wet by filmaker and paddler Shon Bollock and Shasta Boys Productions   Sunday, April 22: Canyon Creek Events Downriver sprint, class IV-V Downriver raft challenge   Sandy River Showdown: Sat - Sun, April 28 - 29 The Sandy River Showdown is a weekend of races and events created by the whitewater mastermind Sam Drevo. Events offer opportunities for class II-III kayakers (hard and inflatable), runners, stand-up paddle boarders, and rafters. Located at Oxbow and Dodge State Parks, the race feels like a weekend paddling with new and old friends in the lush mountains of Oregon's Coast range. The event benefits Team River Runner and We Love Clean Rivers. Saturday, April 28: Sandy River Dam Derby Timed 7 mile race down class II-III whitewater Catered lunch for participants Awards Ceremony Sunday April 29: Dodge & Burn Relay Race Biathlon race for individuals or teams on 8 miles of class I-II (III) whitewater and 3.5 miles of trail in Oxbow Park Catered lunch for participants Exhibition SUP sprint race   29th Annual Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival: Sat - Sun, May 19-20 This festival simple can not be contained into one paragraph. The Upper Clack Whitewater Festival is one of the longest running whitewater events in the country.  There is a race or activity for everyone...no matter your watercraft: rafts, catarafts, driftboats, playboats, inflatable kayaks, long boats and inner tube. Clinics offer expert advice on the most pressing whitewater issues like shoulder health, dutch ovens, and kayaking techniques. With boat demos, company booths, music and so much whitewater action (and carnage) to watch you'll want to come claim your campsite as early as possible! Little White Salmon Extreme Kayak Race: Sun. June 9th The Little White Salmon River, or L Dub, is what aspiring huckers and seasoned veterans dream about.  The river's packed class V+ whitewater comes in the form of technical rapids, waterfalls, slides and everything in between.  Some say perfectly distributed, some say just perfect, the rapids on this stretch of river draw expert paddlers from across the globe.  Competitors in the Little White Salmon Extreme Kayak Race are among the most technically skilled whitewater kayakers in the world, entering in teams of 2 to earn the title.  This year's event will be a qualifying event for the Whitewater Grand Prix, held later this year in Chile.  Note: competitors must register before the event.  Due to the nature of the canyon, no spectators will be permited along the river. Of course, a party will follow. White Salmon River Fest and Symposium: Sat. June 9th Of course, the event we are most looking forward to is the 7th Annual White Salmon River Fest and Symposium, hosted by yours truly, Wet Planet. The White Salmon River provides a year-round source for class II - V kayakers and rafters to get their fix: a great reason to celebrate it's perpetual flow and world-class recreation opportunities.  Founded on a mission to provide watershed education to the local river guiding professionals, the White Salmon River Fest and Symposium also provides opportunites for locals to learn about the environment and surrounding community within the river corridor. The deconstruction of Condit Dam on the river's lower stretch is changing the nature of recreation on the river for years to come. Join us in celebrating these new developments and get out to enjoy the whitewater! In true whitewater festival fashion, there will also be several ways to get out on the river and compete on the White Salmon's classic river stretches.  In the past we have had Rattlesnake Rodeos, BZ Huck Fest, Middle White Relay Races, 8 Ball Sprints and more, all depending on water levels.  Stay tuned for updates through May! The event will feature: Kayak races and competitions on multiple sections of the river Community Raft Float for local residents Salmon Bake dinner Presentations on new presence of fish and Yakima tribe members, restoration along the river, and more. Raffle drawings Live music from the Shed Shakers   Kayaking, News, Other Gorge Activities, Rafting, Wet Planet Community 2012-04-01T22:23:32+00:00 http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/legacy-and-influence-of-a-good-coach-pat-summitt-and-kayaking/ http://www.wetplanetwhitewater.com/site/legacy-and-influence-of-a-good-coach-pat-summitt-and-kayaking/#When:23:06:19Z Pat Summitt, the influential coach of Tennessee's Lady Vol basketball team, has positively influenced more than just the girls on her team. Since 1974, Summitt has led the Lady Vols to win more titles than any other NCAA basketball team.  As the sad news of her early onset of Alzheimer's Diease becomes a reality, we are beginning to better comprehend the widespread affect she had upon her fans, followers and athletes. The countless wins on her resume may provide statistical proof of her proficiency as a coach, but it is the guidance and wisdom imparted on her team and her fans which elevates her to such a high status among sports fans across the country. Good coaches, it would seem, teach more than technical skills and impact more than just the individual players. Kayaking, a sport that fluctuates between an individual pursuit and group effort, also depends on leadership and guidance similar to coach Summitt's. She and the best kayak course instructors share a commitment to the sport from the beginning - no matter what lifestyle sacrifices come along with it - and a lasting popularity and demand amongst would-be athletes and adventure seekers.Pat Summitt, the influential coach of Tennessee's Lady Vol basketball team, has positively influenced more than just the girls on her team. Since 1974, Summitt has led the Lady Vols to win more titles than any other NCAA basketball team.  As the sad news of her early onset of Alzheimer's Diease becomes a reality, we are beginning to better comprehend the widespread affect she had upon her fans, followers and athletes. The countless wins on her resume may provide statistical proof of her proficiency as a coach, but it is the guidance and wisdom imparted on her team and her fans which elevates her to such a high status among sports fans across the country. Good coaches, it would seem, teach more than technical skills and impact more than just the individual players. Kayaking, a sport that fluctuates between an individual pursuit and group effort, also depends on leadership and guidance similar to coach Summitt's. She and the best kayak course instructors share a commitment to the sport from the beginning - no matter what lifestyle sacrifices come along with it - and a lasting popularity and demand amongst would-be athletes and adventure seekers. Sacrifice and Commitment to the Sport Pat Summitt began playing basketball when women did not play basketball. Title IX legislation changed that, and in 1974 she found her role as a coach. She took the newly open door in women's sports and shouted through it for more females to come into the game. Of course, this meant living off of an incredibly low salary, performing every job required to maintain the team and even sleeping in the opponent's gym with her team during road trips just to be able to help these girls play and compete. Teaching kayaking is no more glamorous than Pat's early days of coaching in Tennessee. Instructing whitewater kayaking requires a paddler unmoved by the realities of the lifestyle this position affords. The best instructors may live out of their vans for a portion of the year or pick up minimum wage work in the off-season to make ends meet, but return every summer to lead new students on the rivers. For a leader to truly guide and teach others, he or she must be committed to those that wish to follow and learn. Demand for an Influential and Inspiring Leader Players on the Tennesee women's team not only have advanced their skills to play ball, but also have gain confidence and unity under the guidance of Pat Summitt. Many of her pupils talk about their lives being changed in a way that transcends the game. She expressed her gratitude to those who never played on the team, but helped the girls nonetheless. Pep band members and others admit that her presence alone could inspire an individual to value themselves more.  Everyone in the Tennessee basketball community will admit how valuable Summitt is to women's basketball. The intensity of whitewater can overwhelm a beginning kayak student. A good kayak instructor must prepare a student for the technical challenges of moving water, but also the mental challenges of working with the dynamic natural force of the river. Students who never kayak again will attest to the benefit of a weekend learning how to kayak can bring to their lives.  Through this, the best kayak instructors grow a repuatation for teaching that spreads throught the small whitewater community fast.  These instructors advance the entire community in kayaking and the sport as a whole, rather than just a single student. Importance of Choosing a Coach or Instructor Learning how to perform a new skill and work in an alternative setting as a team can open up unexpected doors in the self and the community. Whether learning how to move together as a team across the court and shoot a solid 3-pointer or traveling down a whitewater river with others and catching eddies with confidence, a good leader will help a student take these skills into their everyday lives. We know that a good kayak course starts with a good instructor. Pat knew that it took more than being a good basketball player to leading her team. The kayak instructors at Wet Planet know that a good instructor helps every student find their own potential out on the river.   Author Susan Hollingsworth writes for Wet Planet Whitewater, Canoe & Kayak Magazine, American Whitewater, and any other river-related publication she can find.   Kayaking, News, Wet Planet Community 2012-03-27T23:06:19+00:00