Jacobs Creek Watershed Association is planning its final pop-up paddling event for the year.
Paddlers can try out new, top-of-the-line canoes, single and tandem kayaks or stand-up paddleboards.
The 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sept. 14 event at Greenlick Run Lake is free to members.
The yearly $10 membership dues go toward conserving natural resources, rehabilitating the creek and watershed, environmental protection and recreation, according to the watershed.
“You have to join to be allowed to use the boats,” says Annie Quinn, watershed association executive director.
“You can show up the day of and pay on the spot,” Quinn says.
The hope is that new members will want to extend their involvement beyond one event, and the dues includes a one-year membership from the date one joins.
“This will be our 10th (paddling) pop-up opportunity. We do this bi-monthly,” Quinn says.
Staff members will provide and haul the equipment for those interested in giving paddling a go.
“We have held these pop-up paddling events throughout the watershed at Bridgeport, Acme and Greenlick, and they’ve been popular with all ages,” Quinn says.
Membership has increased 33 percent since the pop-up events began.
“It’s one of the most successful things we have ever done,” Quinn says.
Sixteen people can be on the water at one time, and they are asked to return after one hour in case a line is forming.
“We get a lot of kids. A lot of people have heard of stand-up paddleboarding and they know it’s popular and fun and cool,” she says.
“We give a quick lesson if they need one, ” she adds.
“We are the only watershed in the state doing this program. We’re pretty proud of it,” Quinn says.
Lightning and thunder will cause the event’s cancellation. Reservations are not required.
Details: jacobscreekwatershed.org
