ACA Water Blog

East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival

2012-01-27T07:00:00.002-05:00

ACA & Subaru presents the East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival. Come out to James Island County Park and immerse yourself in a full weekend of the history, technique, hands-on experience, and fun of canoeing, kayaking and Stand Up Paddleboarding. The East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival includes lectures, on-water classes, and demonstrations directed to the novice and the experienced paddler. The heart of the festival is four classrooms run simultaneously throughout the three-day event. Refine your skills in a master class presented by many of the leading experts in the paddling world. Learn new strokes, rescues, or rolls with expert instruction and meet other knowledgeable paddlesport enthusiasts.

Dozens of commercial exhibitors will be on-hand to give you a chance to try before you buy. At the East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival, you will be able to test boats, paddles, and accessories on the water at the festival site. You will also have the opportunity to speak with equipment designers and manufacturers throughout the weekend.

For information visit http://www.ccprc.com/ecckf.

SUP The Coast from Wind Powered Productions on Vimeo.

Mardi Pardi Eco-Adventure

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

The ACA is sponsoring a great event that promotes both health and fun, the upcoming annual Mardi Pardi Eco Adventure 5k Run and Triathlon .

The 2012 Mardi Pardi will include a music festival as well as a race. It promises a full weekend of New Orleans musical talent, as well as running, kayaking and biking served up with plenty of great, local food, beer and, of course, a Mardi Gras parade! Come out and set a personal goal to run, paddle and let the good times roll!

Race Details

The race will take place Saturday, February 18, at the Washington St. Pier on S. Beach Blvd. in Bay St. Louis, Miss. The triathlon is a 2-mile kayak in the calm waters of the Mississippi Sound along the Gulf of Mexico paired with a 5k run and 12-mile bike ride along the beach road from Bay St. Louis to Waveland. The race can be completed either as a 5K run or as a triathlon solo or relay race. See http://www.mardipardiadventure.org/ for details and to register.

Participants are encouraged to wear their Mardi Gras “racing best” for the Mardi Pardi multi-prize costume contest on the day of the race. And, racers can attend the Pass Parade on Sunday where they will have a reserved location from which to watch the parade.

For more information about the race or to register online, visithttp://www.mardipardiadventure.org/ or http://www.gulfcoastrunningclub.org/.

Golden Gate Sea Kayak Symposium

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

The ACA glad to be able to support the Golden Gate Sea Kayak Symposium. The Golden Gate Sea Kayak Symposium is a skills symposium in one of the most spectacular and dynamic locations in the world — the Marin Headlands and San Francisco Bay. This event is dedicated to the sheer joy of paddling well and paddling safe. Many ACA Instructor Trainers will be in attendance teaching many of the great course offerings. Spring tides and powerful Pacific swells will ensure challenging conditions for even the most seasoned paddlers. The area has beautiful surf, rock gardens, tide races, flatwater and challenging navigation. Take one look around and you'll see Mt. Tamalpais, the Marin Headlands, the Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Skyline, Berkeley, Alcatraz, Angel Island, the Bay Bridge and more…

GGSKS Website

NOBA Winner - Rio Grande

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

ACA member, Dr. Paul Bauer of New Mexico recently received a National Outdoor Book Award (NOBA) for his new book, The Rio Grande.

From the NOBA website:
"This colorful and remarkably well done guide, covering 153 miles of the Rio Grande, is packed full of information for flatwater and whitewater paddlers. But it’s not just for river runners. Hikers, anglers and cyclists will also find it invaluable in their trips to Rio Grande country. The maps are first rate. They were developed from an aerial photo base and use a blend of colors and shaded relief to make the river topography stand out. The geological information, both textual and illustrative, is some of the best the judges have seen in a river guide."

Congratulations Paul!

For additional information about the book, click here.

ACA Quickdry Hats back in stock

2012-01-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

Need a hat for paddling with a built in moisture management system?

The ACA now has two quickdry hats available at the eStore.

Show your support of America's oldest paddlesports organization, order one today...wear it this weekend.

Rocky Mountain Surf Festival

2012-01-20T07:00:00.002-05:00

The ACA is proud to announce that it will be a partner for the 2012 Rocky Mountain Surf Festival and the C4 Waterman Whitewater SUP Championship. The 2012 Rocky Mountain Surf Festival will once again be held at the world famous Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park in Colorado.

This one of a kind Polynesian themed extravaganza will feature surfing contests, music, food and product vendors, costumes, a hula contest, limbo events, a Goof Board competition, a floating parade of rafts punching the monster wave/hole and the world’s best river stand up paddlers displaying their paddling prowess on the snowmelt swollen Colorado River. The weekend includes nonstop action on both sides of the river. Festivalgoers migrate back and forth across the bridge from kid friendly activities held at the park’s stadium seating to the event beer garden, sponsors’ and food vendor’s tents and the event HQ and surf judging zone.

The Rocky Mountain Surf Festival will feature competition for:

Downriver SUP

SUPcross

SUP Surf Contest

River Surf Championship

The Rocky Mountain Surf Festival will also host the ACA Regional SUP Summit.

For more information on the 2012 Rocky Mountain Surf Festival visit the following websites or view the video below. The RMSF video can also be found on the ACA YouTube Channel

http://www.rockymountainsurffestival.com/ or find the RMSF on Facebook

Clean Water Victories

2012-01-19T09:00:00.000-05:00

(Photo Credit: Ben Morton)

Our fellow water lovers at American Rivers dubbed 2011 "the year of the river" because of huge successes for river restoration across the country, including dam removals on the White Salmon and the Elwa (the largest dam removal in history!)

It seems like the "year of the river" continues as we move into a new year, and the ACA is proud to help keep the clean waters flowing in 2012! Earlier this year, the ACA put in calls to senators and representatives to oppose proposed uranium mining around the Grand Canyon. On Monday, January 9th, Secretary Salazar formally signed a 20-year moratorium, the longest allowed by law, on new uranium and other hard rock mining claims on a million acres of federal land around the Grand Canyon. Salazar said it was "a serious and necessary step" to preserving the canyon, an American natural icon, and the river that runs through it.

And yesterday President Obama rejected the controversial Keystone XL Pipeline. The proposed pipeline would have crossed major rivers, including the Missouri, Yellowstone, and Red rivers, as well as critical sources of drinking and agricultural water, such as the Ogallala Aquifer, supplying water to more than two million Americans.

Check out other ACA Stewardship Initiatives!

National School for Paddlesports Business

2012-01-18T18:00:00.000-05:00

Do you own a paddlesports outiftter or retail business? If so, the PPA National School for Paddlesports Business is a great opportunity to learn from industry experts and peers.

Protecting Florida's Public Lands (and Water)

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, the ACA strongly opposed Florida House Bill 1103 proposed by Rep. Goodson. The proposed bill provides criteria for determining location of "ordinary high-water line" for navigable, nontidal waterbodies. If passed, this bill could trigger the loss of tens of thousands of acres of state-owned sovereign submerged lands at the edge of rivers, lakes and streams by changing the definition of the ordinary high water mark, which specifies the boundary of state-owned lands. Lowering this mark would make now public lands vulnerable to privatization and would result in losses in environmental protection; revenue from lease fees; and public access to Florida's waterways for paddlers, sportsman, and recreational enthusiasts.

ACA's opposition to the proposed bill was delivered to Rep. Goodson and committees of the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Subcommittee at yesterday's session to consider the bill. The Florida Senate has an identical bill (SB 1362) that was introduced January 13, 2012. If passed, this legislation would go into effect on July 1, 2012.

Check out other ways the ACA has supported conservation recently!

ACA Affiliate - Southwest Kayak Rentals

2012-01-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

The ACA is fortunate to welcome Southwest Kayak Rentals as an ACA Affiliate Organization. Southwest Kayak Rentals is located in Seabrook, TX on the north shore of Clear Lake, just 30 minutes south of Houston.

Southwest Kayak Rentals offers:

Rentals
Instruction
Guided Tours

Galveston's Trails
Armand Bayou

Southwest Kayak Rentals has supported the Lake, Bayand Bayous since 1988 and can support groups up to 30.

To learn more about Southwest Kayak Rentals visit, http://www.houstonrowing.com/

Or contact: Captain John Coggin at 281-532-1518 or at bayarearowing@aol.com.

Adaptive Paddlesports and Sailing

2012-01-14T16:15:00.001-05:00

The ACA is presenting on adaptive paddlesports at the US Sailing National Sailing Programs Symposium in Long Beach, CA this weekend. This is one of the premier sailing education events in the country.

The ACA is honored to have been invited to share tips, techniques, and insights into how sailing educators can incorporate adaptive paddlesports into their community programs across the country.

The ACA would like to thank Kevin Carr of Creating Ability for providing the ground-breaking equipment that allows people of all abilities to enjoy their time out on the water.

To learn more about the ACA's role in adaptive paddlesports, please visit www.americancanoe.org

SUP Surf!

2012-01-12T07:00:00.006-05:00

Once again, the ACA will be at Surf Expo in Orlando, FL talking SUP this Friday on the main stage at 11:30am.

Some of the topics to be covered are:

When to wear a leash and lifejacket and when not to?

The National SUP Education Curriculum

SUP Instructor Certification

Learn more about SUP Public Policy...

Public Policy Update - National Plan

2012-01-10T07:00:00.003-05:00

Public Policy Update:

It's not just about power and sail boats, but all aspects of paddlesports too.

The Strategic Plan of the National Recreational Boating Safety Program is now available on-line.

Learn more...

How to Video's - Insurance

2012-01-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

*If you're a member of paddling club and you'd like insurance for an upcoming trip...

*If you're an organization and need 1 time insurance for a paddling event or festival...

*If you're a certified Instructor and need coverage for an upcoming course...

View these short, informative, How to Video's about the ACA's Insurance Program:

Insurance Video's

Or view the ACA Insurance webpage

Check Out What Paddlers Are Doing For Our Waters

2012-01-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Photo Credit: Elise Knox

Since 2002, the ACA has partnered with L.L. Bean to sponsor the Club Fostered Stewardship (CFS) Program. The CFS Program provides funding to local and regional paddling clubs that undertake stewardship projects on waterways in their area and take an active role in protecting and improving the nation's rivers, lakes and coastlines.

Check out what 2011 grant recipients did with their funds! Including restoration work, trail development, community building, cleanups, improving access for adaptive paddling, and more, the individuals and organizations featured here have demonstrated a love for paddling and a commitment to preserve the environments that we all hold dear.

Read their stories here.

To find out more about the CFS Grant Program or apply for a grant today, click here.

Hand Crafted Paddles

2012-01-05T07:00:00.006-05:00

ACA Member Highlight

Fritz Orr

In addition to volunteering at paddlesports events across the southeast, Fritz is an ACA Level 5: Advanced Whitewater Canoe Instructor Trainer (1 of only 4 in the entire country). He is also a member of the Safety Education & Instruction Council. He was a member of the U.S. National Paddling Team from 1990-1996 and has taught thousands of campers the art of canoeing at both Camp Merrie-Woode and Camp High Rocks in western North Carolina.

However, his contributions to paddlesports extend even farther. His attention to detail, patience, and craftsmanship help keep the art of paddle making alive.

Learn more about Fritz's hand made paddles, click here.

Supporting Conservation

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

The ACA is one of the largest, most active paddlesports organizations in the world. With over 50 million people paddling each year, there are a lot of different interests to represent. But one thing that all paddlers have in common is a vested interest in the health of our waters and environment.

While the ACA works to promote good on-water stewardship at an individual level, we also partner with or support other organizations working to create a healthier, more sustainable planet. This year alone, the ACA has written letters of support, commented on proposed federal legislation, and co-signed letters with other organizations on a variety of topics ranging from preserving roadless areas in Colorado to supporting the Clean Air Act, protecting the menhaden population, and more!

Check out ways the ACA supports conservation!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T07:00:00.002-05:00

Thank you for your support of the ACA and paddlesports throughout 2011.

We're looking forward to working with (and for) you in 2012!

Learn more about what the ACA does for paddlers:

Education

Stewardship

Public Policy

Competition

Have a great New Year!

The ACA Staff

The ACA Office will be closed on Monday, January 2nd. The Office will re-open on Tuesday, January 3rd.

ACA Board of Director Elections

2011-12-30T07:00:00.003-05:00

Reminder, all ballots for the 2012 ACA Board of Director's election must be postmarked by January 5th and recevied at the ACA Office by January 12, 2012.

Learn more...

Members Only Excursions to Costa Rica

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

The famous Costa Rica Week of Rivers has teamed up with the ACA. Paddle a canoe, kayak, or raft with Costa Rica's premier outfitter, Costa Rica Rios.

Dates: September 22 - 29, 2012

Cost: $1,699

Contact: info@costaricarios.com

www.americancanoe.prg/Excursions

Learn more...

ACA Education Video (new!)

2011-12-28T07:00:00.004-05:00

Ever wonder about the ACA's paddlesport education and instruction program?

Whether you're thinking about taking a course (canoe, kayak, SUP, raft, rescue or adaptive) or you're a long-time certified Instructor, check out this short YouTube video.

Arizona Boating Education Administrator - ACA

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

As the boating safety education program manager, I’ve had a concern for (literally) years that the department was seriously missing a target audience that would benefit tremendously from some sort of formalized boater (safety) education. True enough, the department’s standard, NASBLA approved classroom and Internet based online course was available to anyone that wished to take it. However, the course is tailored for powerboaters, and paddlers weren’t interested. Additionally, paddlers seem to prefer shorter and more hands-on types of training and courses, so aside from the occasional opportunity to talk one-on-one at outreach types of events, we were seldom, if ever, effectively reaching the paddling segment of the state’s boating community. A group I might add that is involved all too much in serious and often fatal boating accidents in Arizona.

As ACA began to disseminate short, canned, easy-to-present flipchart presentations (Paddlesmart from the Start, SmartStart and the like) that agency and volunteer staff could present shore-side and immediately follow up with hands-on experiential flat-water paddling experiences, we began to expand our education efforts. I found this curriculum to be far more effective, professional, credible and educational than what we’d been doing, but I still wasn’t able to reach experienced paddlers. Let alone recruit them as instructors. We were still missing that core group of paddlers with either significant experience or credential to add validation and creditability to our paddling education effort.

Once NASBLA developed the paddling standards and we were able to develop a classroom course, I felt that we had the core elements for an effective and credible program. However we were still unable to develop a cadre of credible instructors. I made the decision early last year to select a core group of existing instructors that are also paddling enthusiasts, and put them through a basic ACA instructor course so we could grow instructors from the inside instead of trying to recruit them from the outside. As word began to spread, I was pleased to see that the agency was able to recruit a few locally known paddling instructors from local organized paddle clubs.

The volunteer instructors identified and selected, the time and place for the course determined, we began to move forward with our plan. In talking about the upcoming instructor training course at the ACA National Paddlesports Conference, Chris (Stec) and Wade (Blackwood) advised me that the ACA had applied for, and received a grant to provide instructor courses to several states for just what Arizona was looking for – introductory paddlesports instructors. We were thrilled to hear that ACA would be arranging for and covering the expense for the course. This meant I could now take the money I’d budgeted for the training, and put it back into boats, equipment and life jackets to be used by our newly certified paddlesports instructors in the agency’s courses.

Of the twelve instructor candidates that participated in the clinic/workshop, ten were certified, and two students are being continued. One needing a bit more work on instructor level paddling skills, and the other requiring a bit more polish on classroom presentation skills. Both of these students will be assisting in future courses to help sharpen their deficiencies. I’ve every confidence they will ultimately pass their requirements and become certified.

The actual result of the training session provided the agency with 10 ACA certified introductory instructors; 3 Into to Canoe – Tandem/Solo, 3 intro to Kayak, and 4 Intro to Canoe – Tandem/Solo & Kayak instructors. As noted above, 2 Intro to Kayak instructors were continued.
The course was great, and that short comment does NOT do it justice. Our ACA Instructor Trainers, Emily King and Pam Dillon, ably assisted by ACA Instructor Virgil Chambers provided insight, enthusiasm, experience and SERIOUS credibility to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s paddlesports education program. I couldn’t be more satisfied with the training, those that provided it, those that benefited from it or those that will be taught by those that completed it! And I again have to emphasize that while we were going to do the training anyway, before we knew we were about to be the beneficiary of the grant, that allowing us to take advantage of the grant allows us to put that money into more equipment from which the ultimate beneficiary will be the paddling public, and that’s who we’re all out to touch.

Best regards,
Ed
_________________________________________________________
Ed Huntsman, Boating & OHV Safety Education Program Manager
Boating Education Administrator

Happy Holidays

2011-12-23T07:00:00.003-05:00

Wishing you a healthy, happy holiday season,

Your ACA Staff

The ACA Office will be closed from December 23-26. The Office will re-open on Tuesday, December 27th.

Who? What? Why?

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

Need to learn more about the organization that's been working for paddlers since 1880?

For a quick snapshot, view the revised powerpoint "The ACA & You!"

or

check out our 30 second YouTube video.

Thanks for your continued support!

Instructor Audit, The End is Drawing Near

2011-12-19T07:00:00.004-05:00

ACA Instructor Audit Information

Calling all Instructor Trainer Educators, Instructor Trainers, and Instructors! If your current certification is set to expire this year- you might want to ensure that you have met the re-certification requirements!

Please review the ACA Policy Manual to find out the exact details pertaining to the maintenance of your specific certification.

If you do not foresee that you will be able to complete the recertification requirements by your expiration date, please consider completing an extension form- the SEI Department will grant extensions on a case by case basis. Extensions allow an additional year to complete the recertification requirements. If you do not meet the recertification requirements, you will be sent a notification of your pending certification status and certification expiration date of 12/31/2011.

If you have taught courses and/or participated in an update: make sure it has been properly reported! Need to report a course or update you can do this from the instructor forms page.

Also, if you have changed your email address, mailing address, or phone number, please let us know so that your certification cards and information get to you!

SEI Department

December Edition of the SEI Focus Released!

2011-12-16T07:00:00.002-05:00

The latest edition of the SEI Focus is now available online!

This issues highlights include:

Sale Items in the eStore
Free Items in ACA eStore
ACA on Google+
Public Policy Website Update
River Hydrology Designs - Hydrology Tank
Instructor Trainer Update Workshop
ACA Integrated Media Recap
New Videos on ACA YouTube Channel
Instructor Audit Information
Important Dates
Happy Holidays!!!

Read Now

Open publication - Free publishing - More canoe

The SEI Focus is a monthly electronic newsletter from the Safety, Education, and Instruction Department that provides valuable information to Instructor, Clubs, and Affliliates.

Pam Dillon

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

Former ACA Executive Director (2002-2007), Pam Dillon has recently joined the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) as their Education Director.

In addition, Pam was recently announced as the recipient of the 2012 Mike Fremont Conservation Award.

Congrats Pam!

Learn more about Pam Dillon

SALE - ACA eStore

2011-12-12T07:00:00.003-05:00

Just in time for the holidays...

Certain books as low as $2.50 (while supplies last!)

DVDs and clothing on sale

4 Free items also online (yes, we said FREE!)

Consider ordering in bulk at these reduced prices for your 2012 Courses.

Sale ends this Friday.

SALE & FREE items - ACA eStore

By the way, have you posted your 2012 courses, events & festivals to the ACA Calendar - it's free, online, and quick.

Winter eNewsletter

2011-12-09T07:00:00.002-05:00

In case you missed the recent ACA Winter eNewsletter, here are the highlights:

What an exciting year, from sanctioning over 200 paddlesports races, to rolling out the premier SUP Educational Curriculum in the nation, to enhancing the user-experience on the ACA website! The staff and dedicated volunteers of the ACA continue to work everyday on behalf of all paddlers. In addition, we revised the iconic ACA logo to better reflect the paddle craft that you use. As a 501(c)(3) national non-profit organization, the ACA relies on membership dues, grant funding, and partnerships in order to continue to provide the benefits and services that the paddlesports community relies on. We appreciate your support throughout 2011 and look forward to working with, and for you in 2012.

Happy paddling,

Wade Blackwood

Executive Director
ACA Canoe • Kayak • SUP • Raft • Rescue

Stewardship - CFS Grant Program
Thanks to the continued support from L.L.Bean, the ACA was able to give over $9,000 to 11 different organizations this year to promote clean water and access to that clean water. Ranging from supplies for an adaptive accessible dock on Lake Monocan in Virginia with Wintergreen Adaptive Sports to supporting the Minnesota SUP Association waterways clean up program, the ACA is proud to partner with clubs and grassroots organizations across the country. Learn more...

Donate - End of Year Giving
Enhance the ACA's ability to support the future of paddlesports, consider contributing to one or more of the following programs:
• Commodroe's Campaign
• Education
• Stewardship
• Competition
• Adaptive Paddling
Learn more about these donation opportunities.

Competition - National Championships
What do slalom, canoe poling, downriver, sailing and freestyle have in common?...ACA National Championship Events! The 2012 dates are already on the calendar. Plus, the ACA is expanding the Collegiate Canoe Kayak & SUP Race Series. Learn more...

Sale & Free Items!! - eStore
That's right, a select number of ACA Resources are now free online!
In addition, certain items are on sale for as little as $2.50, yes $2.50! Instructors, buy books in bulk for your 2012 courses. However, this offer is for a limited time, the sale ends before the holidays are over...Sale Items...Free Items!...Shop Now

Trips - 2012 Backcountry Paddling Excursions
Support the ACA and paddle on one of nine amazing trips in 2012:
• Grand Ronde River, OR - canoe
• San Juan Islands, Pacific Northwest - kayak
• Cumberland Island, GA - kayak
• Charleston, SC - SUP, canoe & kayak
• China - kayak
• Bahamas - kayak
• Mexico - whitewater canoe, kayak or raft
• Costa Rica - whitewater canoe, kayak or raft
• Nicaragua - inflatable canoe
Registration is limited. Learn more...

Subaru VIP Program - Member Discount
As an ACA member, you can save up to $3,300 on the purchase or lease of a new Subaru vehicle. It's a simple, online form and you're done, no haggling!
Now that's a good deal. Learn more...

Board of Directors - Election
The ACA is holding an election for six at-large members of the ACA National Board of Directors. All positions are elected by the ACA membership for a two-year term beginning in 2012. The election of the nominees will be determined by the majority of votes cast by mail-in ballots returned to the ACA by January 12, 2012. Learn more...

Save the Date - National Paddlesports Conference
& ACA Annual Membership Meeting
November 2 - 4, 2012
Charleston, SC
Learn more...

Making the World a Better Place to Paddle! Since 1880.
www.americancanoe.org

Paddlesports Public Policy

2011-12-07T07:00:00.002-05:00

What do SUP leashes, lifejacket wear for adults, inflatable pfd's for youth, and EPIRBs have in common?

They're all issues the ACA is representing paddlers on at local, state and federal levels across the country.

We need your input!

Please take a few moments to fill out our brief Paddlesports Public Policy Survey.

Your feedback will enable us accurately represent the diverse views of paddlers.

Thank you for your time and thoughtful input.

ACA Instructor First Aid & CPR Requirement Updated

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

At the recent National Paddlesports Conference, the SEIC voted to amed the First Aid and CPR requirement for instructors and instructor trainers.

Now, there is a 'hands on' component to the requirement.

To read more about this change you can see the full SEIC Policy Manual or visit the First Aid & CPR webpage.

C'mon you can do it! Do One Thing for Paddling.

2011-12-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Photo Credit: Elise Knox, The Colony Aquatic Park, TX

The ACA strives to make the world a better place to paddle, and has been doing so since 1880. But none of it would be possible without YOU! And we want to give you credit for it! Let us know what you are doing to make your waters better. Whether it's a cleanup with a couple friends, improving access to local put-ins, or removing invasive species along a scenic paddling trail, every little bit makes a difference!

Share your commitment to paddlesports, see what other paddlers are up to, and tell us how you plan to make the world a better place to paddle here!

Check out how the ACA staff gives back to the community!

Members Only Kayaking & Cultural Exchange Excursion to China!

2011-12-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Southeast Expeditions and China Coastlines C & K Club wish to help you explore a paddling trip and cultural exchange like no other. Join them to paddle in both modern and ancient China with Dave Burden and the first ACA Paddle Club in China.

Dates: April 29 - May 6, 2012

Cost: $3,000

Contact: dave@daveburden.com

www.americancanoe.org/Excursions

Learn more...

Instructor Audit is Underway

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

ACA Instructor Audit Information

Calling all Instructor Trainer Educators, Instructor Trainers, and Instructors! If your current certification is set to expire this year- you might want to ensure that you have met the re-certification requirements!

Please review the ACA Policy Manual to find out the exact details pertaining to the maintenance of your specific certification.

If you do not foresee that you will be able to complete the recertification requirements by your expiration date, please consider completing an extension form- the SEI Department will grant extensions on a case by case basis. Extensions allow an additional year to complete the recertification requirements. If you do not meet the recertification requirements, you will be sent a notification of your pending certification status and certification expiration date of 12/31/2011.
If you have taught courses and/or participated in an update: make sure it has been properly reported! Need to report a course or update you can do this from the instructor forms page.

Also, if you have changed your email address, mailing address, or phone number, please let us know so that your certification cards and information get to you!

SEI Department

ACA Office

2011-12-01T05:00:00.003-05:00

The ACA Office is upgrading our servers and networks.

Throughout today and tomorrow (December 1 & 2) we will periodically not have access to email and phone service may be intermittent.

If your email bounces back, or is not returned promptly, please try the appropriate staff member at their phone extension.

We apologize for any temporary inconvenience, but the end result will be a more efficient internal system to allow faster and more effective customer service for ACA members and the general paddling public.

Members Only Charleston Low Country Excursion

2011-11-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

Come enjoy Charleston, SC in a whole new way. Let Charleston County Parks & Recreation Commission show you the lowcountry via SUP, canoe and kayak, includes an overnight trip to Capers Island.

Dates: November 2012

Cost: TBA

Contact: Josh Hall

www.americancanoe.org/Excursions

Learn more...

Frees Resources from the ACA!

2011-11-29T07:00:00.000-05:00

The ACA eStore now has free educational resources for your paddlesports program. The eStore now has waterproof ACA Placards for SUP, Canoeing, Kayak Touring and the Paddler's Safety Checklist for you to order for your program or business.

The ACA Placards are great to give to people wanting to know more about paddlesports and this resource is waterproof. You can affix these to your boats, or put inside a lifejacket pocket allowing your participants to have the knowledge out on the water with them.

The items are a free resource for you, all you pay is shipping and handling. The placards come in packs of 100.

ACA is on Google+

2011-11-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Last week Google+ opened up it's doors to businesses and organizations to offer Google+ Pages. The ACA knows social networking is an important part of how paddlers connect with one another and we want to help grow that ability for paddlers everywhere.

This is why we have created an ACA Google+ Page. Make sure to +1 our page and add the ACA to your Google+ Circles. You can help the ACA promote paddlesports by sharing the ACA Google+ Page and specific posts that are relevant to you with your Google+ Circles and friends. We have a link on the ACA website that takes you directly too the ACA Google+ Page.

2011-11-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Join SOAR Inflatables and author Larry Rice for flatwater paddling and easy rapids as you explore the remote rivers and streams of Nicaragua on inflatable SOAR canoes.

Dates: February 12 - 22, 2012

Cost: $2,495

Contact: Larry Laba

www.americancanoe.org/Excursions

Learn more...

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T05:00:00.002-05:00

On behalf of the ACA National Office, we hope you enjoy the holidays.

(Please note: the ACA Office will be closed on Thursday and Friday, and will reopen on Monday, November 28th)

As we go into the holiday season, think about how you can give back to the communities and waterways that you paddle on.

Learn about the ACA's Community Responsibility Program.

Working Lunch

2011-11-22T07:00:00.006-05:00

Every now and then, the ACA Staff slip out of the office to "practice what we preach".

During lunch, on America's Recycling Day, the ACA staff decided to do a quick clean up of the Old Mill Park access area along the Rappahannock River near our office in Fredericksburg, VA.

This access point is used by hundreds of paddlers each year, not to mention swimmers and people trying to catch those elusive fish.

So, next time you're eating your PB & J at work, think about a simple way to "improve" your neck of the woods.

Learn more about the ACA's Stewardship & Public Policy Program.

Members Only Backcountry Excursion to the Bahamas

2011-11-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

Out Island Explorers invites you to kayak and camp among the beautiful Southern Exuma Cays. Join them to enjoy secluded beaches, fishing, shelling and snorkeling on coastal kayaking members only excursion.

Dates: February 25 - March 3, 2012

Cost: $1,395

Contact: goexuma@outislandexplorers.com

www.americancanoe.org/Excursions

Learn more...

Out Island Explorers

Trail Maintenance on the Upper Sugar

2011-11-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

The Upper Sugar River Watershed Association (USRWA) is a grassroots, 501(c)(3) non-profit conservation organization located in Dane County, Wisconsin. They serve as a forum for the preservation and enhancement of the Upper Sugar River Watershed resources through partnerships among diverse community interests. A recipient of this year's ACA's Club Fostered Stewardship (CFS) Grants, the USRWA used the funds provided by the ACA and L.L. Bean to conduct a river trail maintenance project this fall. The USRWA was able to partner with Operation Fresh Start, a youth development program that addresses core issues facing low-income communities, to help remove fallen trees, strainers, and debris that obstructed the water trail and posed a threat to local paddlers.

The trail maintenance conducted by the conservation crew is just the beginning of many measures the USRWA is trying to implement to protect the Upper Sugar. USRWA plans to continue working with Operation Fresh Start's conservation crew to help combat invasive species, plant native vegetation, and curb the erosion problems that pollute local waterways. They are also going to work with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to fund aquatic invasive species community education and outreach projects, targeted at local paddlers and anglers.

The ACA is proud to have been able to help support local river groups and fund USRWA's projects to protect the Upper Sugar!

Interested in applying for a CFS Grant to help your river? Submit an application today!

ACA Member Honored

2011-11-18T09:27:00.004-05:00

Last month, Justin Padgett, an active member of the Wilderness Medicine Institute (WMI) of NOLS community, was recognized with the most prestigious wilderness medicine award in the southern Appalachians.

According to the Appalachian Center for Wilderness Medicine (ACWM), the recipient of its Mountain Laurel Award is someone who has “made extraordinary, lasting and substantial contributions to wilderness medicine.”

“We are delighted to award a wilderness medicine leader as deserving as Justin,” the ACWM announced.

Padgett is the co-founder and executive director of Landmark Learning, a year-round, multi-certification training center for outdoor educators and emergency medical personnel. In addition, he is a multi discipline ACA Instructor Trainer. His co-founder and wife, Mairi Padgett, said Justin feels the recognition was the result of team effort by his whole staff.

“His motivations are not to win awards, but to provide the best educational training he can,” she said.

Landmark Learning began in North Carolina in 1996 with programs that involve medicine, rescue, paddlesports, and outdoor skills. He has also created two original courses—a medic relief program and the Wilderness Starguard Program.

“His current courses include some of the most innovative wilderness and EMS training now being offered anywhere in the world,” said ACWM Executive Director Seth Hawkins.

The relief medic program trains community members, both domestically and abroad, in what to do in the first 48 to 72 hours of a natural disaster.

“We need a community that can give first aid or give long-term assessments,” Mairi said.

So Landmark Learning developed a course to train interested students for basic disaster preparedness.

The second program Justin launched, the Wilderness Starguard Program, was created because backcountry trips include stops at lakes and ponds that haven’t been assessed for safety. “We felt there was a hole in the training out there,” Mairi said. So they collaborated with Starguard to craft a curriculum through which instructors learn how to assess bodies of water and students’ swimming abilities and to improvise lifeguard rescues with backcountry gear.

After a decade, Landmark grew to be the southeastern regional training resource for camps, college outing clubs, rafting companies, therapeutic recreation providers, and school-based outdoor education programs. Then in 2007 they entered into their current partnership with NOLS to administer WMI courses in the southeastern U.S.

“Justin is a valued member of our team,” said WMI Director Melissa Gray. “His passion for people, education, and the outdoors makes him an excellent match with our style and philosophy at NOLS.”

“We feel like we’re one and the same, we’re just in our own offices,” said Mairi.
The collaboration extends to Justin co-authoring the WMI Field Guide and Justin helping to train new wilderness medicine instructors at NOLS Headquarters in Lander, Wyo.

Though the famously humble recipient of the Mountain Laurel Award was surprised by the honor, those who know him weren’t.

His co-workers describe him as “motivation in motion,” and his WMI colleagues call him “the epitome of the visionary.”

Learn about the ACA's First Aid & CPR requirement for Instructors.

Members Only Grand Ronde River, OR Backcountry Excursion

2011-11-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Come join Slickrock Expeditions & Burt Kornegay for a 100 mile wilderness canoe camping excursion down the fast-flowing National Wild & Scenic Wallowa-Grande Ronde River as it winds through the remote Blue Mountains of Oregon and Washington. Western Whitewaterdescribes the Grande Ronde as "one of the most scenic river trips in the Pacific Northwest.” And Oregon River Tours says, "There are few river trips in Oregon that can surpass the Grande Ronde as a wilderness experience."

Dates:July 4 - 10, 2012

Cost:$1,675

Contact: slickrock@slickrockexpeditions.com

Learn more...

November Edition of the SEI Focus Releases

2011-11-16T07:00:00.004-05:00

The latest edition of the SEI Focus is now available online!

This issue's highlights include:

SEIC Policy Change
ACA Event Calendar Facebook App
New Youtube video
2012 Calendar Dates Request
SEIC Dues now in eStore
Paypal now part of eStore
Instructor/Trainer Search visability
US Coast Guard Auxiliary Partnership
Critter Inflatables added to Pro Deals
ACA Collegiate Race Series Virginia Championship recap
Instructor Audit Information
Important Dates

Read Now

The SEI Focus is a monthly electronic newsletter from the Safety,, Education, and Instruction Department that provides valuable information to Instructor, Clubs, and Affliliates.

New ACA Video

2011-11-14T07:00:00.003-05:00

Ever wonder what the ACA does?

Check out this 30 second snapshot!

Members Only San Juan Island Backcountry Excursion

2011-11-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

Join Outdoor Adventure Center for an amazing week of kayaking, marine biology exploration, beach combing and camping on pristine coastlines.

Dates: August 20 -26, 2012
Cost: $1,275
Contact: info@outdooradventurecenter.com

www.americancanoe.org/Excursions

Learn more...

Members Only Backcountry Excursion to Mexico

2011-11-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

Whitewater Kayak, Whitewater Canoe, Raft or Inflatable Kayak with world reknowned guide Jim Coffey and Esprit Mexico. This whitewater adventure awaits in the warm climate of Mexico.

Dates: March 3 - 10, 2012
Cost: $1,550 CDN
Contact: mexico@whitewater.ca

www.americancanoe.org/Excursions

Learn more...

ACA Event Calendar Facebook App

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

The ACA would like to announce that it now has a Facebook App. The ACA Event Calendar can now be viewed and interacted with via Facebook. The Facebook app is easy to add to your Facebook Favorites so you can stay up to date with paddlesport events. You can view ACA Event Calendar App via the direct link, through ACA Facebook or add it to your favorites.

Add the ACA Event Calendar to Your Facebook
Go to the ACA Event Calendar App. The app will ask for access to your public information, if you chose to allow access, you will then be brought to the app itself.

Now that you have allowed the app access to your Facebook it is listed in your apps, you can click on the pencil icon next to the ACA Event Calendar to add the app to you favorites and viola, you can now quickly access the ACA Event Calendar from your Facebook Home Page! (You may have to tweak your app settings to allow the app to show up initially on your homepage or view it in your account settings)

To Use the App via the ACA Facebook page
This is accomplished by clicking on the ACA Event Calendar listed in the left nav of the ACA Facebook Page along with wall, photos and info. This is a much easier process but more limited viewing window.

The Facebook app only requires access to information that is already listed as public on you Facebook profile.

Please see the links below from Facebook Help Center for tips on working with Facebook apps.

App Basics
Adding, Displaying & Removing Apps
App Privacy Settings

PHOTO CONTEST!

2011-11-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

Did you know that America Recycles Day is November 15th?

You have ONE WEEK! The ACA is calling on you to send in your craziest pictures of you and your friends cleaning up the waterways you paddle on!

Established in 1997, America Recycles Day is the only nationally recognized day dedicated to the promotion of recycling in the United States. One day to educate. One day to motivate. One day to encourage YOU to actively participate in reducing your waste 365 days a year.

Be a part of a national movement towards a healthier planet! Your pictures could be included on our website, blogs, Facebook, and publications. The winning submission will receive a free ACA shirt! Get your submissions in by November 14th so the winning shot can be unveiled on America Recycles Day! Photos can be sent to Cate, chuxtable@americancanoe.org

Want funding to help organize your own cleanup? Apply for one of our Club Fostered Stewardship Grants today!

ACA Collegiate Race Series Virginia Championship

2011-11-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Students from Sweet Briar College and Hollins University endured Virginia’s first taste of winter this weekend when they met on the Rappahannock River in Fredericksburg to compete in the ACA Collegiate Race Series Virginia Championship.

These students not only took on rapids, but also the rain and sub 40 degree temperatures. They donned their cold weather gear and put up some great times on the race course!

The paddlers competed in three classes, OC1, K1 and OC2. Hollins Outdoor Student-athlete Carmella Glazier took the OC1 title with a time of 11 m 34 s, and her teammates Tina DelPup and Mia McDonald took the OC2 title with a time of 11 m 9s, which also was the fastest time of the day. The highly contested K1 class was the closest race of the day; Hollins’ Madeleine Regan edged out Sweet Briar’s Sydney Fuller by 1 s to claim the K1 title with a time of 11 m 12 s.

Race Results

Press Release

Collegiate Race Series Virginia Championships

Up the River WITH a Paddle

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

It will be a day that Sebastian has never seen before. The first-ever paddling race on the St. Sebastian River, “Up the River with a Paddle,” will bring together recreational and competitive paddlers alike – kayakers, canoers, stand up paddle boarders and all non-motorized water sports enthusiasts of all skill levels and ages. Organizers expect to draw paddlers from around the state who have heard about the scenic beauty of one of the most diverse natural estuaries in the country – the South Prong of the river.

This will be the backdrop of the event, to be held Saturday, November l9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Dale Wimbrow Park, 11805 Roseland Road in Sebastian. Proceeds will benefit By the River (BTR), the area’s independent residential community for low income senior citizens, giving them the chance to live affordably in a life-enhancing community. The race is sanctioned by the American Canoe Association (ACA) and being sponsored and coordinated by Florida Outdoor Center (FLOC).

Read Press Release

Vehicles in Action

2011-11-02T07:00:00.004-04:00

ACA Subaru's have been seen all over.

Learn more about the ACA Member - Subaru VIP Program

Where have you taken your Subaru this fall?

AORE Conference

2011-11-01T07:00:00.003-04:00

Keynote Speaker - ACA Instructor Trainer Sam Drevo

Join the ACA at the AORE Conference in San Antonio later this week!

Staffers Trey Knight and Chris Stec will be presenting on "Managing Risk While Afloat" and Instructor Trainer Sam Drevo is the Friday evening Keynote Speaker.

Learn more about the ACA - AORE partnership

Ramping it up!

2011-10-31T07:00:00.002-04:00

Wintergreen Adaptive Sports (WAS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing recreational opportunities, including kayaking and canoeing, to people with disabilities. This year, the ACA awarded WAS with a grant under our Club Fostered Stewardship (CFS) Program to help increase access for students with mobility challenges by constructing a boating platform in front of a ramp used by students with wheelchairs, crutches, or canes.

The ramp and platform face Lake Monocan at Wintergreen Resort in Nellysford, VA, where much of the kayak and canoe instruction is done. WAS was able to leverage funds provided by the ACA through grants awarded by the National Water Safety Congress and Disabled Sports/ USA.

WAS’ new boating platform allows students with disabilities, and particularly those in wheelchairs, to come down the ramp directly onto a stable, solid platform. The platform provides students and instructors secure and stable footing to teach, stage, and launch boats, while also protecting Lake Monocan’s bank and shoreline from erosion.

The ACA is proud to have been able to contribute to this project and to WAS’ mission.

Learn more about our Club Fostered Stewardship Program or apply for a grant today!

New Occoquan River Trailhead!

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-04:00

The Prince William County Park Authority, with the assistance of the Prince William Trails and Streams Coalition, has developed a new Trailhead to the Occoquan River below the Lake Jackson Dam. This new trail will provide easier access to the River for canoeists, kayakers, and fishermen. A ribbon cutting ceremony is planned for 29 October at 10 AM.

A one-time shuttle service to move paddlers from the Bull Run Marina Parking Lot and the Riverview Estates HOA site, back to the Occoquan River Trailhead is being planned for that day to ease traffic congestion. Canoeists and kayakers are requested to register for this opening event by calling Ed Dandar, PWTSC project officer at 703-791-6158 or blueways@pwtsc.org.

Come out and be the first to open this new Occquan River Trailhead!

Find Water Trails near you!

Members Only Cumberland Island Backcountry Excursion

2011-10-26T07:00:00.001-04:00

Come join ACA Pro School Geneva Kayak Center and Ryan Rushton for a coastal kayaking trip around Cumberland Island; Georgia's largest and southernmost barrier island. Cumberland Island boasts 9,800 acres of protected wilderness.

Dates: April 3 - 8, 2012

Contact: Geneva Kayak Center

Cost: $749 or $949

www.americancanoe.org/Excursions

Learn more...

5th Annual Trash Bash

2011-10-24T07:00:00.001-04:00

The Sebago Canoe Club has long demonstrated a commitment to caring for the health of our waters and fostering stewardship. A six-time recipient of the ACA's Club Fostered Stewardship (CFS) Program grants, the Sebago Canoe Club held their 5th Annual Trash Bash this year and had record attendance. The shoreline cleanup of Paerdegat Basin in Brooklyn, New York, both engaged members of the organization, public, and youth groups to clean up the area, as well as educating them about the importance of issues related to healthy shores and water.

"The debris along our shores comes from many sources and can ultimately be traced back to people who have not been near the water. Trash left on sidewalks and streets becomes shoreline debris after heavy rains wash everything into the sewers, and ultimately out to the water," says Mary Eyster.

This year was worst than most for many New England states and cleanups because of hurricane Irene. The Trash Bash had to be postponed once due to high waters, and the wrath of Irene left a large amount of debris along the shores and above the normal high tide mark.

Among the many items collected, the most common pieces of debris were everyday items like plastic bags and food packaging. In just a few hours, Sebago's volunteers collected nearly 500 plastic bags, more than 300 plastic bottles, and over 1,000 food wrappers.

We would like to thank Sebago for their commitment to protecting Paerdegat Basin and promoting good stewardship practices!

Learn more about the ACA's CFS Program or apply for a grant today!

3 Nautical Miles...

2011-10-21T07:00:00.003-04:00

...is the proposed distance from a shoreline where emergency locator beacons might be mandated for all vessels, including canoes, kayaks, and SUPs.

If you paddle in the open ocean or Great Lakes, the ACA needs your opinion on this issue!

ACA - Public Policy Survey

ACA Members Only...

2011-10-19T07:00:00.011-04:00

China

...Backcountry Paddling Excursions.

Space is limited, reserve your place today on one of the 4 U.S. locations or 5 international destinations.

2012 ACA Member Excursions

Mexico

Costa Rica

Cumberland Island, GA

Charleston, SC

Southern Exuma Cays, Bahamas

San Juan Islands, Pacific Northwest

Grande Ronde River, OR

Nicaragua

2012 ACA Members Only Excursions

October 2011 Edition of the Focus Released

2011-10-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

The latest edition of the SEI Focus is now available online!

This issue's highlights include:

ACA Event Calendar User Guide

AORE 25th Annual Conference

National Paddlesports Conference Recap

Members Only Excursions

Instructor Audit Information

Outreach Surevey

Important Dates

Read Now

The SEI Focus is a monthly electronic newsletter from the Safety,, Education, and Instruction Department that provides valuable information to Instructor, Clubs, and Affliliates.

MTI Adventurewear Partners with ACA to Support SUP Summit and SUP Certification Courses

2011-10-17T07:00:00.007-04:00

MTI Adventurewear partners with the ACA to provide inflatable belt pack life jackets to support the inaugural SUP Summit and Level 1 & 2 SUP Instructor Certification Courses.

SUP is one of the fastest growing segments of paddlesports. According to a recent OIA study, over 1,000,000 people tried SUP in 2010, and those numbers continue to grow.

Matching a grant to the ACA from the US Coast Guard, the Fluid packs from MTI were used for the on-water segments of the SUP Summit. "The ACA is uniquely positioned for effective out-reach to bew paddlers and the paddling community through their network of instructors" said Lili Colby, owner of MTI. "Promoting safe boating is core to their instructional message. MTI believes that the best way to encourage life jacket use is through education from the retail showroom to the on-water classroom. We feel the ACA instructor is a great role mode and "SAFE SUP" evangelist."

Learn more about the ACA and MTI Adventurewear.

Paddlesports - Public Policy

2011-10-14T07:00:00.002-04:00

The ACA is proud to announce that Chief Operating Officer Chris Stec has been appointed by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano to serve on the National Boating Safety and Advisory Council (NBSAC).

NBSAC provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary, Department of
Homeland Security (DHS) through the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard on matters relating to recreational boating safety. Such matters include all new regulations and standards issued under Title 46 United States Code. Subtitle II. Part I. Chapter 131, and Title 46 United States Code, Subtitle II. Part B. Chapter 43. NBSAC is responsible for specific assignments and may conduct studies, inquiries,
workshops and fact finding in consultation with individuals and groups in the private sector and/or with state and local government jurisdictions.

This is a significant step for paddlesports to be represented at this level of our federal government.

"The ACA is honored to be able to represent canoeists, kayakers, rafters and stand up paddleboarders. Having a 'seat at the table', is an important part of informing regulators about the needs and best interests of the paddlesports community." - Chris Stec

One part of the ACA's education mission is to provide information to both the paddling community and various government entities who have a role in either regulating or providing access to waterways. To this end, the paddling community now has a direct, online tool to convey your local or regional public policy issues, as well as provide input and suggestions on paddlesports related issues.

For more information about this paddlesports public policy tool, please click here.

Race at SUP Summit

2011-10-13T07:00:00.001-04:00

ACA SUP Summit competed in the Inaugural KFC Mayor's Cup on Saturday October 1st in Louisville, KY. Despite cold weather and windy condition summit attendees and ACA staff got on the water with the rest of the competitors to help promote paddlesports and SUP. ACA Instructor, Trainers and Educators took some high honors in the race.

SUP Mens:

1. Charlie MacArthur - 40'27.08''

2. Josh Hall - 41'46.50"

3. Keith Keller - 43'18.07"

4. Chris Stec - 53'01.09"

5. Trey Knight - 58'42.60"

SUP Womens:

1. Kristen Beck - 63'01.16"

Full Results and Pictures

Girls at Play and the ACA

2011-10-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

Girls at Play in an organization that is dedicated to inspiring women and enhancing their lives through kayaking and yoga retreats, classes and trips. The ACA is excited to have the Girls at Play team going through a certification course.

For more info about Girl at Play go to http://www.watergirlsatplay.com/

ACA Staff in Falling Creek Camps News

2011-10-10T07:00:00.001-04:00

ACA Executive Director, Wade Blackwood, Chief Operating Officer, Chris Stec, and Education and Outreach Coordinator Trey Knight were featured in the news blog of prominent western North Carolina boys camp, Falling Creek Camp. All three ACA members worked on the canoe and kayak staff at Falling Creek, no surprise there.

Read the news article here.

Falling Creek Camp is a leader, not only in the camp industry, but in paddlesport education for youth. Their feature paddling program, Huck Paddling Expiditions, is lead by professional paddlers that have featured program creator Jez Blanchard, as well as Andrew Holcombe, Nick Troutman, and ACA's own Trey Knight. This program teaches participants about all aspects of paddlsports including swiftwater rescue, education, instruction and trip planning.

International ACA

2011-10-07T07:00:00.004-04:00

Did you know...

the ACA has members and instructors in 21 countries around the world?

This weekend, the ACA is hosting the 2nd annual Europe Paddlesports Conference in Germany.

Thanks to event organizer and ACA Instructor Trainer Raphael Kuner of RaffTaff.

Europe Paddlesports Conference

ACA at AORE Conference

2011-10-05T07:00:00.004-04:00

ACA is proud to offer 3 Pre-Conference Instructor Certification Workshops and 2 Post-Conference Instructor Updates at the 25th National Conference for AORE.

Pre/Post Conference Workshops:

Level 2: Essentials of River Kayaking
Level 2: Essential of River Canoeing
Level 2: Essentials of SUP
Level 1-3 Canoe Instructor Update
Level 1-2 Kayak Instructor Update

The ACA will also be presenting an educational session on managing risk while afloat. This presentation will be tailored for paddling trip leaders and focus on on-water paddlesports program management.

For more information about the AORE National Conference or to register go to the AORE Conference website at http://www.aore.org/conference/default.aspx.

Save the Date

2011-10-03T07:00:00.002-04:00

National Paddlesports Conference

November 2-4, 2012

Charleston, SC

Learn more...

National Paddlesports Conference

2011-10-01T07:00:00.003-04:00

Over 100 paddling club members, instructors, instructor trainers and stand up paddleboarders are in Louisville, KY this weekend at the ACA National Paddlesports Conference and SUP Summit.

In addition, there's the inaugural ACA sponosred KFC Mayor's Cup Race and the ACA annual membership meeting.

Check back on the ACA Water Blog on Monday for the announcement of the 2012 National Paddlesport date and location.

Think paddling in November in warm weather...

Film Festival - Kentucky Waterways Alliance

2011-09-28T07:00:00.002-04:00

Even if you can't make the entire ACA National Paddlesports Conference this weekend, join us for the Reel Paddling Film Festival in Louisville, KY this Friday night.

Date: Friday, September 30

Time: 8:30pm

Venue: The Galt House

Location: Carroll Ford Room

Cost: only $10

Benefit: Proceeds benefit the Kentucky Waterways Alliance and the ACA

Tickets are sold online or at the door.

Purchase your paddling film festival tickets today!

KFC Mayor's Cup Race

2011-09-26T07:00:00.003-04:00

In conjunction with KFC, the city of Louisville, and River City Canoe & Kayak, the ACA is producing the inaugural KFC Mayor's Cup Race.

When: This Friday and Saturday

Where: The Warf at Waterfront Park

Cost: only $25

Classes: Professional & Recreational

Boats: Kayak, SUP & Canoe

All proceeds benefit: Dare to Care

Complete KFC Mayor's Cup Race information

ACA JPE

2011-09-25T07:00:00.001-04:00

ACA Journal of Paddlesports Education is up and running!

The ACA Journal of Paddlesports Education has been online for two weeks and has been growing.

Articles submitted to the Journal of Paddlesports Education since its launch:

Weird Strokes Can Teach Flexibility and Balance

The Progressive Vector Pull (a.k.a. "swigging)

State Boating Laws and Rules for Paddlers

AND MORE!

Read JPE Here

Sneak Peak - 2012

2011-09-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

What do the Grande Ronde River, Cumberland Island, SOAR inflatables and China have in common?

2012 ACA Backcountry Paddling Excursions - learn more

Educational Sessions Announced!

2011-09-21T07:00:00.003-04:00

Photo Courtesy of Mike Aronoff - CKAPCO

The Educational Sessions for the 2011 National Paddlesports Conference are now online!

Educational Sessions

KFC Mayor's Cup

2011-09-20T07:00:00.003-04:00

In conjunction with the upcoming ACA National Paddlesports Conference, KFC and the City of Louisville have teamed up to host a fun canoe, kayak, and SUP race!

Experienced or beginner, there will be fun for every race class.

Basic Details:

Friday, September 30

3:00pm

Sprint Races (500 & 1,000 meters)

Warf at Waterfront Park

Saturday, October 1

8:30am

Long Course (6 miles)

Warf at Waterfront Park

KFC Mayor's Cup

New Resource Tool for PAC's

2011-09-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

Calling all ACA Paddle America Clubs!

Did you know? There's now an easier way to notify the ACA Insurance Department of your upcoming club trips and events.

The NEW Online PAC Event Submission Form

Try it today!

Reel Paddling Film Festival

2011-09-16T16:00:00.000-04:00

Do you live in Kentucky?

Even if you can't make the entire ACA National Paddlesports Conference later this month, join us for the Reel Paddling Film Festival.

Date: Friday, September 30

Time: 8:30pm

Venue: The Galt House

Location: Carroll Ford Room

Cost: only $10

Tickets are sold online or at the door.

Purchase your paddling film festival tickets today!

The ACA at Gauley Fest!

2011-09-15T07:00:00.006-04:00

Kelsey Bracewell, SEI Coordinator, will be paddling the Lower Gauley with Anna Levesque and Girls at Play in their "Ladies on the Lower G Fundraiser for American Whitewater."

They will be meeting at Swiss, the take-out for the Lower Gauley, and run shuttle from there. The cost is $40 and all proceeds go to AW. If you're interested in paddling with Girls at Play, call 916.580.9352 to register.

Come visit the ACA booth anytime during the weekend to meet Kelsey and learn more about what's happening at the ACA!

Have you met the rest of the ACA staff?

Help the ACA help YOU!

2011-09-13T07:00:00.001-04:00

The ACA has a new survey up on our website!

We strive to represent all paddlesports, so your feedback is important to us! Take a couple moments to answer a few questions that will help the ACA focus our stewardship initiatives and promote cleaner paddling environments.

Take the survey online today

Keynote Speaker - ACA National Paddlesports Conference

2011-09-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

The ACA is excited to announce that Tori McClure will be the featured Keynote Speaker at the upcoming ACA National Paddlesports Conference in Louisville, KY later this month.

A few of her significant accomplishments:

President - Spalding University

NOLS - Board of Trustees

First woman to ski to the geographic south pole

First woman to row solo and unassisted across an ocean

Spots are still available for the NPC, register online today.

ACA Launches Journal of Paddlesports Education!

2011-09-09T07:00:00.001-04:00

ACA offers new tool and resource for instructors!

The launch of the ACA Journal of Paddlesports Education marks a giant step for paddlesport instruction and education. This journal offers a medium for ACA Instructors, Trainers, and Educators to exchange ideas and knowledge to help advance the realm of paddlesports education. The intended categories for article submission include: discipline/cross-discipline specific instruction, best practices, paddling education history, and discussion of education topics.

The Journal of Paddlesports Education lauches with articles such as:

Teaching and Learning Paddlesports

Teaching Tips for Kayaking - A Work in Progress

The Missing Piece in the Forward Stroke Puzzle: Torso Rotation in Fifteen Minutes or Your Money Back

AND MORE!

Read JPE Here

The Chattooga and the ACA

2011-09-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

The ACA has continued efforts to partner with American Whitewater (AW) in an effort to open the Chattooga River's headwaters to boaters. This week, the ACA signed AW's letter of petition to the United States Forest Service opposing the environmental assessment (EA) of the titled "Managing Recreation Uses in the Upper Segment of the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River Corridor.” The EA violates many basic laws, regulations, and policies regarding land and resource management, and "transparently aims to reach a predetermined goal of limiting paddling." We will continue to work with AW to try to bring equity to the recreational use of the Chattooga and open its waters to boaters.

More about ACA's public policy initiatives.

September SEI Focus Released!

2011-09-07T07:00:00.015-04:00

The latest edition of the SEI Focus is now available online!

This issue's highlights include:

New SEI Department Staff

Launch of the ACA Journal of Paddlesports Education

ACA National Paddlesports Conference

News regarding SEIC meeting

ACA Instructor Audit Information

Important Dates

Read Now

The SEI Focus is a monthly electronic newsletter from the Safety,, Education, and Instruction Department that provides valuable information to Instructor, Clubs, and Affliliates.

The ACA has an active board...

2011-09-06T07:00:00.004-04:00

both on and off the river!

Dave Holl, our Board Treasurer, was recently featured in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's magazine, advertising their Paddling Trails. Thanks, Dave, for being such a role model on the water!

Add your own water trail to our website!

Conference & SUP Summit Schedules

2011-09-05T07:00:00.002-04:00

New schedules for the upcoming National Paddlesports Conference and SUP Summit have just been posted online.

NPC schedule

SUP Summit schedule

Registration for both events is still open, learn more, and join paddlers in Louisville, KY later this month!

The ACA has teamed up with Nat Geo!

2011-09-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

The ACA has collaborated with National Geographic on their Trails Illustrated Maps, providing tips for on-water trip planning, boating safety, and the importance of wearing a life jacket!

Go here to view us in Nat Geo's maps or to start planning your next trip!

Travis Festa

2011-09-02T07:00:00.014-04:00

After a great year of service to the ACA in the SEI Department, Travis is moving on to paddle new waters.

We're sad to see him go, but truly appreciate all he did to maintain the quality of service ACA Instructors have come to expect from the National Office.

All the best in your future endeavors!

-The ACA Staff

Contact Kelsey, Trey or Eli in the Safety, Education, Instruction & Outreach Department.

New ACA Staff Member

2011-09-01T07:00:00.002-04:00

Eli Crispell - Paddlesports Training Grant Coordinator

A native of Northern Maine, Eli attended Saint Michaels College in Vermont and became immersed in their Wilderness Program. After graduation he traveled the country working as an instructor, teacher, and professional guide in some of the wildest and most remote areas North America has to offer. Eli is passionate about introducing people of all ages and backgrounds to safe and fun outdoor recreation and has honed these skills by working for organizations like the University of Alaska, Outward Bound and the Boys and Girls Club. By becoming part of the ACA he hopes to continue encouraging safe responsible recreation and sparking a passion for paddling in the community. While paddling is his first love, he also enjoys the professional and recreational sides of rock and ice climbing, Nordic and alpine skiing, mountaineering, backpacking, and his newest pursuit, skijoring.

Contact Eli

Revised Event Calendar

2011-08-31T07:00:00.010-04:00

Post your event to the ACA Event Calendar, it's an easy 1-page form.

Also, search for different paddlesports events by:

ACA Events

Adaptive Paddling

Competitions

Festivals & Symposiums

Instruction Courses

Simply hover over the Event Calendar tab in the left navigation.

New SEI Department Staff

2011-08-29T10:00:00.006-04:00

Join us in welcoming Trey Knight to the Safety Edcuation & Instruction Department.

Trey Knight - Education & Outreach Coordinator

Originally from Savannah, GA Trey earned his B.A. in Math at Mercer University and M.S. in Sport Administration from Georgia State University. Trey’s passion for the outdoors has led him all over the country. He has worked for Big Sky Resort in MT, as a raft guide for the NOC, a kayak instructor for High Country Outfitters, and has paddled in 11 states along the way. In undergraduate school at Mercer and Georgia Tech, Trey taught many outdoor sports including kayaking and rafting. While at Georgia State Trey served as the Program Coordinator for Outdoor Recreation Georgia Tech. While at ORGT one his responspisibilities was to train instructors and leaders in 8 outdoor sports including, sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking and canoeing, and rafting. Most recently he was the Assistant Outdoor Adventure Director at a prominent boys camp in Western North Carolina, where previous to his administrative role he was the Head of Paddling. Trey has been a member of the ACA, AORE and AEE since 2007 and is a Level 5: Advanced Swiftwater Rescue Instructor, Wilderness First Responder, and Lifeguard. When not at work Trey will often be outdoors snowboarding, paddling climbing, geocaching, and trail running, often with his dog and fiance.

Contact Trey

Stewardship Grant Funds Still Available-- Apply Today!

2011-08-26T07:00:00.013-04:00

Since 2002, the ACA has partnered with L.L. Bean to sponsor the Club Fostered Stewardship (CFS) Program.

Designed to encourage local and regional paddling clubs to engage club members and paddlers to volunteer in stewardship projects on waterways in their area, this program provides grants of up to $1,000 to help fund on-water stewardship initiatives.

There are still funds available for the 2011 year! The application is simple, so apply today to restore and protect your favorite paddling environments!

Learn more and apply here!

August SEI Focus Released

2011-08-25T07:00:00.000-04:00

The latest edition of the SEI Focus is now available online!

Highlights from this issue:

National Paddlesports Conference

SUP Summit Registration

ACA Instructor Audit Information

Online Forms

New Staff - Cate Huxtable

New ACA Prodeal Program - Nighthawk Canoes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Important Dates

Read Now

New ACA Merchandise

2011-08-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

Need to correspond with club members, what about folks who participated in your recent skills course?

The ACA has just released full color, multi-discipline notecards. Order yours today.

ACA Notecards

ACA Stewardship Coordinator

2011-08-22T10:00:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Cate Huxtable, the ACA's new Stewardship Coordinator!

A Fredericksburg native, Cate graduated from the University of Mary Washington with a Bachelor's Degree of Science in environmental science and psychology. After graduating, she served as the Volunteer Coordinator with Friends of a Rappahannock, a grassroots conservation organization, through the AmeriCorps*VISTA program. As an avid lover of nature and a recreational kayaker, Cate is passionate about the health of our waters and working as an agent for stewardship and positive social change. She is excited to become a part of the ACA and to work with such a passionate group of individuals to preserve and protect paddling environments.

Contact Cate

NPC & SUP Summit Registration

2011-08-19T07:00:00.003-04:00

Only a few weeks left to register for:

National Paddlesports Conference

SUP Summit

Reel Paddling Film Festival

ACA Annual Banquet

Join fellow paddlers in Louisville, KY September 30 - October 2, 2011

National Paddlesports Conference information

Benefits of ACA Membership

2011-08-17T07:00:00.003-04:00

Ever wonder what the benefits of beign associated with the nation's oldest paddlesports non-profit are?

It's much more than just your choice of magazine subscriptions (although Rapid Media's titles are pretty awesome!)...

Learn more about the Benefits of ACA Membership

SUP Instructor Certification Courses

2011-08-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Photo courtesy of CCPRC

Interested in becoming an ACA certified Stand Up Paddleboarding Instructor?

Upcoming courses:

September

Charleston, SC

Louisville, KY

October

Germay

Course Information

The ACA is recognized as the leader in paddlesports education and instruction.

Canoe, Kayak, Raft, SUP & Rescue

Take a course today!

Europe Paddlesports Conference

2011-08-12T07:00:00.003-04:00

The 2nd annual ACA Europe Paddlesports Conference is taking place in Germany.

Details

Date: October 7-9, 2011

Location: RaffTaff - Kanutouren und Outdoor Events

Host: Raphael Kuner

More information

Pre-conference courses

Wilderness First Aid

Level 2: Essentials of SUP Instructor Certification Workshop

Registration is now open, contact Raphael Kuner