Paddle and Pull volunteer event
WHAT: Join Willamette Riverkeeper, Benton Soil & Water Conservation District, and Oregon Parks & Recreation Department to help hand pull aquatic invasive species, Ludwigia (water-primrose), Myriophyllum aquaticum (parrotfeather) and more on the Willamette River along the Corvallis to Albany stretch. These aquatic weeds continue to degrade fish & wildlife habitat in our rivers and have negative impacts on our native vegetation, water quality and the overall watershed health. This is an on-water event, so experience on moving water is recommended. We have ten tandem canoes (20 seats) for volunteers if you'd like to borrow one for the day you MUST SELECT this option in the "Add On" section of registration. Reserve a seat, and make a new friend!
If you are interested in learning identification tips, safe removal methods, how to report & dispose of invasive weeds, and have some fun paddling on the river, then this is the perfect event for you!
WHEN: Saturday, August 3rd from 9:00am - 3:30pm
WHERE: We will meet at Michaels Landing Boat Ramp in Corvallis, drop off boats and gear (staff guarded) and drive vehicles to Hyak Park (take out) in Albany. From there we will shuttle folks back to the put in (Michaels Landing), and get on the water from there. The first part of this paddle is all about community building, education and enjoying this beautiful stretch of the Willamette. Once we get to our weed pull site there will be more time for education and getting your hands dirty to save our aquatic habitat through this important work!
See map above or link below for location.
https://willamettewatertrail.org/map/michaels-landing/
DETAILS: Dress for the weather and a day on the water, where you might also get muddy. Waterproof shoes (that stay on your feet) preferable. Bring PFD, Canoe or Kayak with paddles. Please bring plenty of water, lunch (to enjoy at Tripp Island), and sunscreen. Willamette Riverkeeper will have 10 tandem canoes (so 20 single seats) to loan out for the day and each will include 2 PFD's & 2 paddles. If you prefer to bring your own kayak or canoe that's great too! If so, please contact Vanessa to make sure your watercraft will meet the needs for the river stretch and the day.
Minors 12-17 are also welcome to join this event if they will be accompained by an adult in their boat who is responsible for the minor and is authorized to sign their participation waiver.
QUESTIONS: Contact event coordinator, Vanessa, at vanessa@willametteriverkeeper.org