By Doug Alderson, Outreach & Advocacy Director
“People protect what they love” is the basic premise of Apalachicola Riverkeeper’s eco-educational outings program. By exploring the waterways and hiking trails of the Apalachicola Basin, one can develop a deeper understanding as to why this region is one of only six biodiversity hotspots in North America and why it needs to be cherished and protected. Plus, our outings are fun, one reason why many people join us again and again.
After a brief hiatus due to the Covid 19 pandemic, we plan to restart our outings program this summer while following social distancing guidelines. For now, outings will be limited to eight participants. First on tap is the Dead Lakes in June, part of the Chipola River, a mysterious place of ghostly cypress trees that is great for kayaking. Read about last year’s trip here.
The Chipola River is featured again in July, but we’ll explore a segment never before covered on a Riverkeeper outing, paddling from Peacock Bridge to Johnny Boy Landing in the middle river. Our August outing is a kayak trip on Doyle Creek, part of the system of paddling trails along Apalachicola Bay and the lower river. This waterway has been described as a great way to appreciate coastal environments that are inaccessible by foot.
A favorite segment of the Chipola River from Yancey Bridge to Magnolia Bridge wraps up our summer trips in September. This kayak excursion features clear springs and the only consistently dry cave along a Florida river. Participants will be sure to wear a swimsuit for some cooling off opportunities. Here is a blog from last year’s trip.
We have much to offer this summer in terms of fun and educational outings, so don’t delay, sign up today! Contact us at [email protected] or call 850-653-8936. Trips are on a donation basis and loaner kayaks are available.
For outings, this webpage outlines some overall guidelines to recreate responsibly.
