Great River Paddlers enjoy the beauty of nature
Pictured are (from left) Great River Paddlers members Sally Marshall, Sue Tiller, Jeri Kluesner, Keith Rauch, Cheryll McCune and Gayle Patraw at a boat landing in Wauzeka. (Submitted photo)
By Rachel Mergen
“Where are the kayaks?” That’s the question Sally Marshall had when she moved to the area years ago.
Now, Marshall helps bring to the community the Great River Paddlers club, an organization set up, according to her, “to encourage paddle sport as recreational sport in the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers.”
The kayak owners, all 50 members, enjoy leisure paddling through June to August. There is no competitiveness, just “enjoying the beauty of the river,” said Marshall. It’s an opportunity to take part in one of the few silent sports that also allows for a tremendous upper body workout.
In March 2011, the organization was brought to life. A notice, sparking much initial interest, was sent out to local towns and brought people from as far as Steuben and Gays Mills to the first meeting at Prairie du Chien’s city hall.
Mike Ulrich, the parks and recreation director for the city, and local man Hans Gill came up with the idea of kayak classes to take place at Hoffman Hall. The idea was followed through, and they came upon the realization that it only made sense to also have a paddle club in the area to match with the program. Marshall, who had been hosting paddling trips since 2005, was called to take the lead.
When taking a trip with Marshall and the Great River Paddlers club, “You will hear what nature is all about,” she stated. Usually starting in June and ending in August, the group takes six to eight trips during the season. Small groups take part in each trip, while “embracing the idea of a sport that is quiet and peaceful,” Marshall mentioned.
“Paddling in the area has a lot of challenges with it,” she stated. With great work, though, a variety of paths were found to avoid hazards like motorboats. These paths include traveling the Wisconsin, Mississippi and Kickapoo Rivers. Locations visited during these trips are the Ambro Slough, the Johnson Slough across from Wyalusing and Harpers Ferry. The paddlers can be seen sometimes traveling from Bridgeport to the Wyalusing boat trail, Boscobel to Woodman and Woodman to Bridgeport.
When she takes a trip from the Plum Creek boat landing to Wauzeka, Marshall said, “it feels like you’re in the wilderness.” During their trips, she and other members enjoy being able to see the undisturbed wildlife, like frogs, turtles and eagles. The eagles can be viewed watching from above, perched on trees.
One of Marshall’s favorite memories took place at the Ambro Slough. There were acres and acres of water lilies covering the path, creating a beautiful scene that stuck in her mind. “The water lilies were reflecting in the river,” she described. “It was outstanding, one of the most beautiful things.” Marshall, affected by this moment, now paints pictures of the water lilies in various stages of bloom and features them at an art gallery in McGregor.
“People need to be out in nature,” she said. “It’s a need that has always been there.”
She believes, “To preserve nature is important.” The lack of motors when paddling helps bring to light the beauty of the landscape and environment.
There is no cost to be a member of the club. Members must own and bring their own kayaks to the directed boat landing at a certain time, usually 10 a.m., for each trip. Canoes are allowed also, but kayak owners make up 90 percent of the organization. Participants must be familiar with basic paddle strokes, which “allows for better safety and self-confidence in the water,” according to Marshall. They must be skilled at handling their own boat, both in and out of the water, in various situations.
Items needed for the trips include: a personal flotation device, which must be worn at all times in the water; clothing, synthetic blend is recommended for its ability to dry quickly; a hat that covers the nose, ears and back of neck; water shoes with either Velcro fasteners or zippers; a dry bag to hold items that should be left untouched by the water, like cell phones; water and snacks; rain gear depending on the weather; a first aid kit that should also contain bug repellent and sun screen; bilge pump and sponge to remove water from the boat; and a seat cushion.
It is important to stay together during the trips, and in case of an emergency, a whistle is recommended to call for help.
Essential information and skills for kayaking are taught at Hoffman Hall. The class teaches basic paddle strokes, along with how to help yourself if a dump-over occurs, and other topics. The course is created for ages 10 and older. No experience is required before taking the class, and all equipment is provided. This year, the class was held on April 1 and April 15, from 3 to 5 p.m. There is a maximum enrollment of four students per class. Dates and other information for upcoming classes will be announced by the city’s Park and Recreation Department.
“The sites, the sounds, the breeze coming down the river, everything about it is wonderful,” Marshall stated about the trips. “It just captures you.”
For more information about the Great River Paddlers club, email Marshall at tigerlilly4434@yahoo.com.
