A Paddlers Code

"All canoeists and kayakers should remember that they are ambassadors for their sport."







The following is general advice on courteous behavior for our paddlers when participating on excursions with our group..


On land

• Park considerately, not taking up more space than you need at access areas
  
• Avoid damaging fences, gates, piers, trees, seawalls or river banks;
• Use recognized access points where possible;
• Keep noise to a minimum;
• Be discreet - don't cause offense by changing or urinating publicly;
• Respect private property - if in doubt seek advice from the owner or resident;
• Respect the wildlife, never disturb nesting waterfowl
  
• Always take your litter away with you and pick up litter left by others when possible.
• Never throw trash or cigarettes butts on the ground,
• ask for permission to smoke or be courteous enough distance yourself far away as not to affect others
  
• Always offer to help others move, unload or move boats
  

On the water

• Follow the general rules of navigation and local bye laws;
• Respect all other water users, they have just as much right to use the waters as you do
• Co-operate with anglers to avoid lines - friendly communication can reduce potential conflict;
• Do not linger in pools already occupied by other river users;
• Keep the numbers in your party consistent with safety, the nature of the stretch of river and the impact on your surroundings; always file a float plan before you leave shore.
  
• Respect the wildlife at all times, unless being attacked
  
• Never throw trash on the water, stow it away properly, this includes cigarette butts if you smoke. If you do smoke pull off to the side at a safe distance from the group.
  
• Always avoid using foul language around others. Especially in the presents of minors.
  
• Never make inappropriate or lewd comments in front of women or children.
• No use of Alcohol Permitted during excursions.
  
• Always wear a whistle
• Know the paddle signals for stop, go, and help.
• Bring a Walkie Talkie if you can.
  
• Non-swimmers, weak swimmers and children should always wear a life vest.
  
• Full Moon Excursions are for experienced kayakers
• Everyone has to wear a PFD on night excursions, there are no exceptions.
  
• One continuous bright light is required to be displayed by each canoe/kayak on night excursions.
• Radios are a must at night, since hand and arm signals aren't as visible.
• Always Stay within 10 feet of a kayaker with a radio if you don't have one.
• Everyone stop when you here a whistle. Try to find out what is going on.
  
• Never paddle out of sight in front of the group alone. There will be some exceptions on creeks that bend and turn.
  

In general treat others as you would wish to be treated yourself. Always have respect for the environment and the people in your group. Always follow safety recommendations and listen to your excursion leader.

"We carry it all in and we carry it all out

Maximum impact on the Soul with

Minimum Impact on the World

Striving to give paddlers a good name & a good time

All the while leaving nothing but paddle strokes behind"