PADDLE CANADA COURSE, PETAWAWA RIVER – LEVEL 3

INFORMATION

Bill Bowman @ (613) 828-2262, wbowman@ncf.ca

Web site http: http://web.ncf.ca/ad554/WW3.htm

PADDLE CANADA certification is included in the rates.  All participants (assuming a minimum level of proficiency) should obtain their Moving Water 1A (tandem).  Some more experienced paddlers could obtain their Moving Water 1 (tandem and solo).

The rough agenda for the weekend will follow the PADDLE CANADA Moving Water 1 curriculum (available at https://www.paddlecanada.com/moving-water-canoe/.  Saturday will be spent downstream at Big Eddy working on the tandem requirements, while the Whitewater 1 participants are upstream.  Sunday will move upstream to polish tandem manoeuvres at the island and gravel pit, and introduce solo whitewater paddling in the less intimidating water in this area.

All other logistics (food, camping facilities etc.) are the same as Whitewater 1. Level 3 camping will be at a base camp accessible by car, made available to us at nominal cost by CFB Petawawa. It is only 10 minutes away from the canoeing area. A map accompanies this information

Participants require use of both a tandem canoe and a solo canoe during the weekend. Pricing options include renting both or one or the other. Paddles, PFDs, and helmets are included in the rental fee. But, please bring your own PFDs and helmets if you can. The supply of rental equipment might be limited – first come, first served. If you are too late, you will have to rent elsewhere and transport it yourself.

If you bring your own canoes, be certain they are suitable for white water (normally, this means ABS, at least 16 feet long). Each must have a painter and a bailer. Wooden paddles are not recommended. You may also be able to rent one of the 7 Camp Opemikon white water canoes. These canoes rent for $40 for the weekend, and can be booked using the standard Opemikon booking form http://voy.scouts.ca/sites/default/files/2018%20Reservation%20Form%20Category%20A_0.doc




through the warden mailto:opewarden@scouts.ca. 

The Opemikon canoes come with float bags, but no paddles or other accessories. Lastly, you might be able to make a deal with another Venturer company which is not using all of their canoes. YOU MUST MAKE THESE ARRANGEMENTS PRIOR TO BOOKING WITH BEAR CREEK OUTDOOR CENTRE. There are NO REFUNDS.

REQUIREMENTS

You must be confident in moving water canoeing and be able to execute eddy turns and ferries in Class 2 rapids. Whitewater Level 2 is the normal prerequisite.

A helmet is mandatory for this white water course (water sport or hockey helmet). Bike helmets are NOT PERMITTED.

An approved PFD is mandatory and must be worn at all times when on or near the water.

Swimming - Participants must be able to swim, and not panic if under water. You do not need to be an excellent swimmer to enjoy white water canoeing, but it is always an asset.

WHAT TO BRING

See WW1 and WW2 for suggestions on clothing and equipment. A wet suit is strongly suggested.

SPECIAL NOTE

There are NO BATHROOM FACILITIES AT ALL at the training site. Be sure to use the comfort station at the campsite.