June 26th was coined National Canoe Day by the Canadian Canoe Museum in 2007 following a CBC campaign that declared the canoe one of the Seven Wonders of Canada. Ever since, and in many ways – from proclamations to paddling parties – Canadians have connected and shared their affinity for canoes.
This year, the Mississippi Valley Field Naturalists celebrated by launching their canoes (and kayaks) on the Rideau Canal at the home of Arn and Jan Snyder and paddling 7.4km through the Hartwell Locks into Dows Lake.
Slight rain in the morning did not deter the 22 participants, who were on the water at 10:00. The highlight for everyone was canoeing/kayaking the historic Rideau Canal on National Canoe Day!
The Parks Canada staff at the Hartwells locks were excellent, providing information on the functioning of the locking system. The organizers would like to thank Parks Canada for providing free passage through the locks.
The day trip was one of several planned for the summer. To see the schedule and a list of suggested routes, visit the MVFN webpage. Notices and registration forms are sent to members roughly two weeks in advance.
