On Wednesday and Thursday, I trained through the National Park Service to be a Level 2 certified canoeist in the American Canoe Association (ACA). This means that I learned how to efficiently paddle a canoe forward, backwards, and laterally; retrieve or re-enter a capsized canoe; and rescue fellow canoeists. Of course, we also reviewed water safety and the importance of wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) such as a life jacket. I created a post about this a few days ago for the Big Thicket National Preserve Facebook page:
If you want to learn more about the requirements to earning a Level 2 certification, follow this link.
Now that I am certified, I am able to assist with canoe trips at Big Thicket National Preserve. These trips are along the Neches River, Village Creek, or the bayous near Beaumont, TX. They can last up to four hours with ample breaks to relax and eat lunch. The canoes, paddles, and PFDs are provided by the park, and visitors are invited to bring their own vessels and life jackets if they choose. Public, ranger-led paddles hold up to ten people, with visitors calling ahead to reserve spots, which fill up quickly! Larger groups such as scout troops and churches can arrange private, ranger-led paddles as long as they contact the park service several weeks in advance. Both types of events are free. I hope you join us for a paddle the next time you visit the Big Thicket.