More than one student told Refuge staff it was the best school day they had ever had. - Photo Credit: USFWS

Students paddle to the next learning station. - Photo Credit: USFWS

What student, or adult for that matter, does not spend at least a few minutes each day staring out the window wishing they could be outdoors enjoying the beautiful spring weather instead of being stuck inside? That wish actually came true for 43 high school students in Cassville, Wis. on May 10, 2012. Students spent the day paddling from learning station to learning station on the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, McGregor District, listening to fellow students and refuge staff talk about wildlife, habitat and our natural resources.

Much preparation and forethought went into this day of paddling. A week before the event, refuge staff went to the high school, spread 22 canoes out on the football field and led students through the fundamentals of canoeing. They practiced the correct way to get in and out of the canoe safely, how to steady the canoe for their partner and how to execute different paddle strokes. Many different aspects of safety were discussed, including what to do if they tipped over.

Two days before the event, the decision was made to change the planned route due to high water. That threw the refuge staff into a flurry of activity shuffling vehicles, staging canoes, getting supplies together and double-checking details to make sure everything would be ready for the next day.

The energy in the air was electric Thursday morning. Some students were giddy with excitement; others looked like they wanted to bolt. Each paddler stuffed a second set of clothing in the dry bags provided by the refuge. Those that packed lightly must have been confident they would stay dry or did not care about a water accident, but the vast majority brought so much they looked like they were preparing to never see civilization again. The group started off apprehensive, but by the end of the day they pulled into shore exhilarated. Only one canoe tipped over during the day, most likely for the excitement. The refuge motorboats stationed discretely in front and back of the group quickly came to the rescue and the boys finished the trip.

This paddling event is just one of many events that are being held up and down the length of the Mississippi River this summer.  The Summer of Paddling 2012 is part of the Presidential Initiative - America’s Great Outdoors - which encourages people to be active and get outside on their public lands. It gives the public a chance to experience the Mississippi River through recreational and stewardship programs. It apparently worked for the Cassville High School students, because when asked if they would try paddling again, the answer was a resounding “Yes!" Judging by the number of students that thanked the refuge staff for hosting the event, the Summer of Paddling goals were achieved.

Additional events are planned for the Reno Bottoms Canoe Trail June 16, at Dubuque June 23 and tentatively for July 28 at the Wyalusing State Park Canoe Trail. If you would like more information about past or upcoming events, visit www.sop2012.org or contact Ann Blankenship at 563-873-3423.