South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association

Feb. 12 session full; plenty of space on Feb. 19 and March 4

2012-02-09T12:23:00.002-06:00

What do people do at these sessions? The one-minute video above shows you.

We've nearly reached capacity on our Feb. 12 event, but have plenty of room in the Feb. 19 and March 4 sessions. Remember each is held 9-11 a.m. at the YWCA in Sioux Falls. There's a back door right to the pool.

Look forward to seeing you - you can search our past posts on this blog to get a nice map of the YWCA area for parking, unloading and more. Remember: Wipe out your boat before you bring it inside; we don't want to haul sand, mud or anything else into the host's facility!

Here's the SDCKA group link on Facebook, too! We try to update both as much as possible.

Pool Sessions Set For Feb., March

2012-02-02T22:31:00.002-06:00

We'll host three pool training sessions at the YWCA in Sioux Falls:

Feb. 12
Feb. 19
March 4

Each session is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Come work on wet exits, rescues, or anything else you might like to try in a cozy, sand-and-mud free environment. Club members will be happy to help show what they know, but there's no formal lesson plan or agenda. These events work best with 10 or fewer paddlers; there's room for roughly 4-5 boats on the water at a time. You do not have to bring your own boat.

Cost is $10 for non-members - pay and you've got your membership!

Come out and join us; post here if you have questions. The YWCA is located near the Argus Leader in Sioux Falls. There's a back door that goes right into the pool area, take 11th Street east to Dakota Ave. Trailer parking in the bank lot just east of the YWCA is available. Make sure your boat and gear are clean as a courtesy to our hosts.

Thanks!

2012-01-28T19:19:00.005-06:00

Thanks to everyone who came out today for our annual conference! We had another great turnout and a good group of presenters.

Here are a few links from today's presenters:

Erin McManus Photography: http://www.erinmcmanusphotography.com/

Greg Latza Photography: http://www.greglatza.com/

USD Missouri River Institute: http://www.usd.edu/missouri-river-institute/

South Dakota Kayak Challenge: http://sdkayakchallenge.org/

Camping & Cooking with the Bare Essentials: http://www.amazon.com/Camping-Cooking-Bare-Essentials-Complete/dp/0975301608/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1327799832&sr=1-1

Team River Runner: http://www.teamriverrunner.org/

Here's the video that Steve was working to show during his presentation: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18563_162-20128743/freeing-disabled-vets-with-kayaks/

Thanks again - and see you on the water!

SDCKA Conference Schedule

2012-01-24T22:21:00.004-06:00

South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association Annual Conference

Saturday, January 28, 2012
12:00 – 4:00 p.m.

The Outdoor Campus
4500 S. Oxbow Ave
Sioux Falls, S.D.

12:00 Welcome & Year in Review
Steven Dahlmeier, President SDCKA

12:20 White River Memories
Greg Latza & Erin McManus

12:40 Camping & Cooking with the Bare Essentials
Tony Keller, Author

1:00 Canoeing with the Cree Revisited
Dave Greenlee, SDCKA Member

1:30 Business meeting

2:00 Break

2:20 Team River Runner
Stephen Bruggeman - South Dakota Chapter Representative, Team River Runner

2:45 The Missouri River Flood of 2011: Causes, Impacts, and Post-Flood River Management
Tim Cowman - Director, USD Missouri River Institute

3:25 South Dakota Kayak Challenge
Jarett Bies & Steven Dahlmeier – Race Co-Founders

SDCKA By-Laws

2012-01-17T14:56:00.002-06:00

During our upcoming conference on January 28, 2012, SDCKA members will vote on making changes to the SDCKA by-laws. Below is the current version and the version with proposed changes. The highlighted changes have been voted and approved by the board.

Current by-laws: http://www.sdkayakchallenge.org/pdf/SDCKACurrentBy-Laws.pdf

Proposed by-laws: http://www.sdkayakchallenge.org/pdf/SDCKAProposedBy-Laws.pdf

Jan 28: SD Canoe & Kayak Association Conference

2011-12-29T20:31:00.005-06:00

The SD Canoe & Kayak Association will be hosting their annual conference on Saturday, January 28, 2012 at The Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls from noon to 4pm.

The conference will include presentations on waterways, safety, conservation along with booths featuring various vendors. There will also be a short business meeting to elect new board members for 2012. Contact Steven at dahlmeis@hotmail.com if you're interested in joining the board.

Schedule of presentations will be posted by January 15.

We hope you can join us!

Saturday, Nov 5th Cruise

2011-11-03T14:18:00.000-05:00

On Saturday November 5th at 1:00 PM Larry Braaten is leading a cruise from Newton Hills to Fairview. This is a little over 5 miles and will meet
at the boat ramp across from the Newton Hills horse camp. Shuttle first.

If you have any questions you can call Larry at 605-764-5654. Hope to see you there.

Oct 1-2 Cruise

2011-09-01T23:00:00.009-05:00

This year the South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association is celebrating it's 30th Anniversary. With every milestone comes a celebration.

On October 1-2, we will be hosting a two-part cruise. We'd love to have you join us on some or all of it!

Saturday, October 1:

2:00pm - Meet at Lien Park (North Cliff) in Sioux Falls. We'll shuttle cars to Big Sioux Recreation (Brandon).

2:45pm - Lien Park to Big Sioux Recreation (approx 11 miles)

7:00pm - SDCKA Cook-out at Big Sioux Rec Picnic Shelter

Please get your camping reservations as soon as possible. They fill-up fast on the weekends.
http://gfp.sd.gov/state-parks/directory/big-sioux/

Sunday, October 2:

8:00am - Shuttle cars to the Lake Alvin access

8:45am - Big Sioux Rec to Lake Alvin access (approx 12.5 miles)

This will be a great event to get together with your paddling friends and meet new ones!

Please give me a call if you have any questions.

Steven Dahlmeier

President

South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association

605-864-9011

BSR Clean-up

2011-08-17T23:57:00.005-05:00

A HUGE thank you to all the volunteers who came out tonight (Aug 17, 2011) to help clean the river. We made a small dent in a dirty river - but we call can all be proud of what was accomplished. A TV, kiddy pool, shoes, inner tubes and way too many grocery bags - will no longer be spending their days hanging along the banks of the Big Sioux. THANKS AGAIN!

Annual Big Sioux River Clean-up

2011-08-10T11:47:00.008-05:00

As the waters begin to recede on Big Sioux River through Sioux Falls, it makes way to piles of garbage that have washed down and collected along the banks and in trees. We have to take it among ourselves to get the river back to the way we all enjoy it most - clean!

As part of our yearly push to keep the rivers clean, we'll be hosting a clean-up cruise on Wed Aug 17 at 5:30pm.

Please meet at Farm Field Park (57th & Western).

Canoes & kayaks are welcome. Please bring along gloves and bug spray. Milk crates also work great for temp storage on your hull.

We will work our way downstream and collect trash along the banks. A few of the canoes will act as barges to haul the trash downstream.

This year we are partnering with Millennium Recycling to recycle as much trash as possible this year.

July 23-24 Paddles

2011-07-21T15:27:00.002-05:00

Saturday July 23 2:00 P.M.

Lake Lakota Paddle

Lake Lakota is located southeast of Newton Hills State Park. Newton Hills is south of Canton.

Sunday July 24 1:00 P.M.

Meet at Legacy Park for a Skunk Creek / Big Sioux River paddle to E. 26th street

If you have any questions you may call Dave Finck at 605-366-6844.

June 19: Father's Day Skunk Creek/ BSR Cruise

2011-06-16T16:22:00.001-05:00

What: Father's Day Skunk Creek / Big Sioux River Cruise

When: June 19 @ 1pm

Where: Meet at Legacy Park (12th & Sertoma)

Dave and Mary Finck and Larry Braaten are planning a run from Legacy park to east 26th street we will meet at Legacy Park on west 12th at 1:00 P M on Sunday afternoon June 19 and shuttle vehicles to east 26th steet this is 4-4 1/2 hour trip hope to see you there. If you have any questions you can call Dave at 605-366-6844.

June 12: Split Rock Creek

2011-06-07T16:07:00.002-05:00

What: Split Rock Creek Cruise

Where: North of Brandon to McHardy Park - meet @ McHardy

When: Sunday, June 12th @ 1pm

Meet at McHardy park to caravan to the put-in at the bridge on 259th street. Anyone wanting to join us are more than welcome. If you have any questions you may call Dave Finck at: 605-366-6844.

Saturday, June 4: Paddling Fair / Water Sampling

2011-05-29T09:11:00.004-05:00

Saturday, June 4, 2011

10:00 a.m. Water Sampling with Dakota Water Watch (Lake Alvin)

12:00 p.m. Grilling at the lake

1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Paddling Fair (Lake Alvin)

5:00 p.m. - Split Rock Creek Cruise

We will be meeting at Lake Alvin at 10:00 a.m. to conduct a water sampling throughout the lake in conjunction with Dakota Water Watch. Volunteers will paddle to various areas on the lake and take water samples and check depth. DWW will provide all the materials. Please let Dave Finck know if you plan on attending. dfctx@msn.com

We will be using the southwest boat ramp at Lake Alvin.

Following the water sampling, we will be grilling out along the lake. Feel free to bring along something to grill and join us.

At 1:00 p.m. we will host our annual Paddling Fair at Lake Alvin. SDCKA members will bring their boats, along with various vendors in the area, and allow anyone new to the sport, or looking at upgrading their boats, to test drive anyone they'd like. Staff will be on hand for guidance and give instruction.

We've added a Split Rock Creek cruise starting at 5pm. We will meet below the dam in the Garretson city park.

We hope you'll come out an join us! Feel free to email me if you have any questions. dahlmeis@hotmail.com

CANCELLED: SDKC

2011-05-26T23:01:00.001-05:00

Due to increasing river levels, the South Dakota Kayak Challenge has been canceled for this year.

Thanks to everyone who planned on racing or volunteering!

Upcoming Events

2011-05-22T23:20:00.001-05:00

May 27-29, 2011
South Dakota Kayak Challenge
http://www.sdkayakchallenge.org/

Registration has closed, but visit the website to sign-up to volunteer.

June 4, 2011
Paddling Fair
Lake Alvin
1:00-4:00pm

More information coming soon.

Saturday, May 14 - Big Sioux River

2011-05-09T20:30:00.005-05:00

What: Big Sioux River Cruise

When: Saturday, May 14 @ 1:30pm

Where: 57th & Western (Sioux Falls)

Larry Braaten, Mary and Dave Finck are planning a trip from 57th Street across from Dairy Queen to 26th street. We will meet at 57th St just west of Western Avenue, on Saturday May 14, 2011 at 1:30 P M and shuttle the vehicles first. It is about a 2hr run. Nice trip Hope to see you there. If you have any questions you can call Dave at 605-366-6844.

Governor lifts ban on recreational use of Big Sioux River

2011-05-05T12:01:00.003-05:00

Argus Leader | May 5, 2011

Gov. Dennis Daugaard has lifted the recreational use ban on the

Big Sioux River in eastern South Dakota.

Residents had been banned because of high flood waters creating

dangerous conditions.

Even though the ban has been lifted, Department of Game, Fish

and Parks officials are asking people recreating on the Big

Sioux to remain cautious.

A 300-foot no wake zone is in effect on both Lake Poinsett and

Blue Dog Lake. Boaters within 300 feet of the shoreline
anywhere on these two lakes must operate their boats at a

slow speed – about 5 miles per hour.

TWO Events Saturday

2011-05-03T15:46:00.005-05:00

Missouri River Cleanup 2011

May 7 @ 8am

Riverside Park Boat Ramp, Yankton, SD

For more information, contact Dugan Smith at the National Park Service by calling 605-665-0209 x28 or email him at dugan_smith@nps.gov

http://www.riverrelief.org/event/yankton-missouri-river-clean-up-2011/

_______________

Rock River Cruise

May 7 @ 2pm

Rock Rapids, IA

Larry Braaten, Mary and Dave Finck are planning a cruise in Rock Rapids, IA down the Rock river on Saturday May 7th at 2:00 P M.

We will meet at the Island at Park in Rock Rapids and shuttle our vehicles first. Then proceed down the Rock river to Hyway 75.

It is about a 21/2 to 3 hour run. If there are any questions you can call Dave at 605-366-6844.

Upcoming events

2011-04-20T12:34:00.004-05:00

May 7

Yankton Missouri River Clean-up

http://www.riverrelief.org/event/yankton-missouri-river-clean-up-2011/

May 7

Siouxland Missouri River Clean-up

http://www.riverrelief.org/event/siouxland-missouri-river-clean-up-2011/

May 28-29

South Dakota Kayak Challenge

Email dahlmeis@hotmail.com to volunteer!

http://www.sdkayakchallenge.org/

Cancelled: Earth Day Cruise

2011-04-19T10:23:00.003-05:00

Due to the perpetual high water levels on the Big Sioux, we're forced to cancel this years Earth Day cruise. The cruise was to be held this Saturday, April 23.

Check back soon for more opportunities to get on the water (pending flooding).

NIOBRARA RIVER Trip - April 16th & 17th

2011-03-22T22:47:00.002-05:00

Valentine, Neb – SDCKA members Pete Larson and Cory Diedrich will be organizing an exciting early season paddle on the Niobrara River on April 16th and 17th. This will be a two-day, one-night paddling and camping trip on a scenic river about 4 hours drive from Sioux Falls.

We plan to paddle from Cornell Bridge about 5 miles east of Valentine to Smith Falls State Park on Saturday. We will then paddle from Smith Falls State Park to Rocky Ford on Sunday to complete the 25 mile section on the beautiful Niobrara River.

Participants will meet about 10am on Saturday at Cornell Bridge and expect to paddle by 11am. We plan to shuttle vehicles after arriving back at Smith Falls State Park.

Camping is available at Smith Falls State Park on Friday and Saturday evenings. The majority of the group did camp together for the weekend and had a really amazing time enjoying the vast array of wildlife, scenery, and camaraderie. The park was completely empty except for the kayaking enthusiasts. Please feel free to join us at Smith Falls State Park on both evenings. If you are an enthusiast about outdoor cooking, bring your Dutch ovens and grills for a community cookout on Saturday night at the park. There is no requirement to do so, but participants must “fend for themselves” when it comes to food on the trip.

On Sunday morning, we will break camp and again shuttle the vehicles downstream to Rocky Ford, the site of the trips conclusion. We will return to Smith Falls to begin our paddle with the expectation to be back to our vehicles by 2pm on Sunday afternoon, April 17th.

There is no cost to take part in this event, but you must provide your own canoe or kayak, camping gear, food, and water. There is a $4 nightly camp fee at Smith Falls and a $4 daily park entrance fee per vehicle. There may also be a $2 per person access fee at Cornell Bridge, but that depends on whether the wrist bands are available this early in the year.

To make this cruise event successful, Pete and Cory hope to get confirmed numbers of participants prior to Tuesday, April 12th.

Direct any questions you might have about this trip to Pete Larson at 605-934-1995 (day) or 605-934-2338 (evenings). You can email Pete at Leisuresports@alliancecom.net.

You can also contact Cory Diedrich at 605-321-6554 or at cory.diedrich@sanfordhealth.org.

Information on the Niobrara River is available online at these links:

National Park Service Website: http://www.nps.gov/niob/index.htm

Google Photo Collection of the area: http://tinyurl.com/yhc6z5w

Valentine, Neb Website with river information: http://www.visitvalentine.com/attractions/niobrara.aspx

Big Sioux River Closed to Recreational Uses

2011-03-18T14:39:00.000-05:00

PIERRE, S.D. – In the interest of public safety, Gov. Dennis Daugaard on Friday declared the Big Sioux River closed to boating and other recreational uses until further notice.

The closure order is effective on the river from Codington County through Union County. State law gives the Governor authority to prohibit or restrict recreational use or navigation on any portion of a river, lake or stream to protect the public peace, health or safety.

“The rising water level and rapid flow of the Big Sioux River as the spring melt takes place simply makes it unsafe for citizens to use the river for recreation,’’ the Gov. Daugaard said.

Public notices will be posted along the Big Sioux River at high-traffic intersections. A violation of a prohibition or restriction order is a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine of $500 or both.

Last Pool Sesson - THIS SUNDAY (March 20th)

2011-03-17T21:15:00.003-05:00

This is your last chance to get on the water and practice wet exits/reentry. If you have never done this before, I STONGLY encourage you to attend. We've had a lot of people learn reentry for the first time, and it's a crucial skill to know.

RSVP'd for Sunday:
- Chris K
- Robert V
- Loren O
- Jarett
- Dave
- Mary
- Eric L
- Matt S
- Willard S
- Cory D

Email me if you have any questions: dahlmeis@hotmail.com

Pool Session RSVP

2011-03-08T20:48:00.004-06:00

March 13:
- Eric L
- Matt S
- William L
- Claire E
- Pat W
- Mitchell J
- Kati A
- Shawn G
- Kelcey M
- Willard S

March 20:
- Chris K
- Robert V
- Loren O

Email Steven at dahlmeis@hotmail.com to add your name to the list.

March Pool Sessions

2011-02-22T14:01:00.006-06:00

We have scheduled additional pool sessions at the YWCA in Sioux Falls.
Sunday, March 13th - 11am-1pm
Sunday, March 20th - 11am-1pm

Both sessions are free to members. Not a member? $10 single / $12 family for a year membership.

SDCKA Board Members will be on hand to work with you on wet exits and reentry. Space is limited for each session - so sign up soon. We will have boats on hand if you don't have one.

Email me to sign-up dahlmeis@hotmail.com

I'd encourage you to wear clothing that you typcially paddle in. Getting into your boat might be easy if you're wearing a swimsuit, but if you normally paddle in pants, that could add an extra challenge. Changing rooms are available poolside.

Pool sessions are a great way to help you familiarize yourself with your boat.

February pool session photos...

NWS Spring Flooding Outlook Presentation

2011-02-17T15:14:00.002-06:00

http://www.crh.noaa.gov/images/fsd/mwb/webbrief_controller.swf

Another Tough Year for Paddling?

2011-02-17T15:08:00.001-06:00

S.D. flooding expected along James, Big Sioux rivers
Argus Leader Feb. 17, 2011

A new 90-day outlook from the National Weather Service continues to forecast a high probability of major spring flooding on most of the James and Big Sioux rivers through South Dakota.

Thursday’s report shows an 85 percent to 95 percent chance of major flooding at Columbia, Stratford, Ashton, Huron, Mitchell, Scotland and Yankton.

The probability of major flooding is the same on the Big Sioux River from Watertown to Sioux Falls.

The weather service said the soil moisture content is above normal, especially in the Big Sioux River basin. It said snow depth has decreased in many areas because of warm temperatures this week, but that water content in the remaining snowpack is high.

SF Mayor / Parks Department listening session

2011-02-09T15:17:00.004-06:00

I'd encourage SDCKA members to attend this session and share your thoughts with Mayor Huether and Parks Director Kearney.

Mayor, parks director to talk with residents Saturday
Argus Leader Feb. 9, 2011

Sioux Falls’ mayor and director of parks and recreation will talk with the public at an event Saturday morning.

The Listening and Learning Session runs from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Hy-Vee, 1900 S. Marion Road.

Don Kearney, director of Parks and Recreation, will give an update on the Recreation Needs Assessment Project.

Mayor Mike Huether will discuss any topics involving the city of Sioux Falls.

Kearney will provide a summary of the duties and responsibilities performed by department staff in the winter months, recap the 2010 capital
projects that improved existing park infrastructure, and discuss plans for west-side bike trail improvements.

Pool Session - SUNDAY

2011-02-06T12:31:00.005-06:00

If you'd like to join us for the pool session on Sunday (FEB 13), don't forget to RSVP. We have room for 12-14. Please let me know if you need a boat.

RSVP to dahlmeis@hotmail.com

Registered so far:

Jessica P
Robin S
Kati A
Rosalin W
Byron H
Deb G
Curt J
Curt J's wife
Jon C
Tim
Bev

Conference Follow-up

2011-01-30T11:31:00.005-06:00

Thanks again to everyone who made it to the conference!

Feel free to contact anyone on the SDCKA board if you're looking for lessons, a boat to borrow, or any other canoe/kayaking information.

Email Steven to reserve your spot in the next pool session -which will be held February 13 at 10am at the YWCA in downtown Sioux Falls. dahlmeis@hotmail.com We have limited space...and have 8 signed up so far. If needed, we will add another session.

The South Dakota Kayak Challenge is looking for volunteers & racers. Visit http://sdkayakchallenge.org/ for more information.

If you want more information regarding the Black Hills Paddlers: http://www.blackhillspaddlers.org/

Here's a photostream of Jarett Bies' trip on the Missouri: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bieso/sets/72157624724396245/

Water levels: http://waterwatch.usgs.gov/

Missouri National Recreational River: www.nps.gov/mnrr/

Dakota Water Watch: http://eastdakota.org/dakotawaterwatch/

City of Sioux Falls: http://www.siouxfallsparks.org/

2011 SDCKA Annual Conference

2011-01-18T11:04:00.003-06:00

Saturday, January 29, 2011
12:00 – 4:00 p.m.

The Outdoor Campus
4500 S. Oxbow Ave
Sioux Falls, S.D.

12:00
Welcome
Steven Dahlmeier, President SDCKA

12:10
SDCKA Year in Review – Cruising, Public Service, Safety
Brief remarks by SDCKA directors about events of the year

12:20
Paddling with Kids
Cory Diedrich (SDCKA Board Member)

12:40

Kayaking in High Winds: What you need for a trip that goes wrong
Jarett Bies (SDCKA Vice President)

1:00

Sioux Falls Waterways
City of Sioux Falls Park & Recreation Department

1:30

Water Conservation / Water Issues
East Dakota Water Development District / Dakota Water Watch

2:00

Break
Sponsored by Scheels

2:15

Whitewater Kayaking

Justin Herreman, Black Hills Paddlers

2:45

The Missouri River
National Park Service

3:15

Kayak Racing & the 2011 South Dakota Kayak Challenge
Jarett Bies & Steven Dahlmeier

3:35

Business Meeting
• Election of Officers
• Plans Ahead for the SDCKA in the Coming Year

This conference is open for anyone interested in canoeing or kayaking. The presentations will be focused upon paddling opportunities and experiences, and the presenters will be members of the SDCA with significant experience in area waters. This is an opportunity to network and establish links with paddlers from the area. There is no admission charge for the conference.

Paddling Network

2011-01-07T11:06:00.005-06:00

Let's help paddling.net update the best places to paddle in South Dakota. Click on the link below and add your favorite launch site. This is a great resource for locating areas to paddle around the US.

http://www.paddling.net/launches/

h/t Patrick

Annual conference agenda

2011-01-05T09:33:00.006-06:00

Here's a quick look at plans for our Jan. 29 conference (specific presentation times are tentative, a final schedule will be posted next week)

Noon: A welcome to all from Steven Dahlmeier, President SDCKA, followed by a look at the year in review, including cruising, public service, and safety.

12:20 p.m. Paddling with Kids, Rick Johns & Cory Diedrich (SDCKA Board Members)

12:40 p.m. Kayaking in High Winds: What you need for a trip that goes wrong, Jarett Bies

1 p.m. Whitewater Kayaking, Justin Herreman, Black Hills Paddlers

1:30 p.m. Water Conservation with East Dakota Water Development District / Dakota Water Watch (Tentative)

2 p.m. Break

2:15 Big Sioux River Water Trail, City of Sioux Falls Park & Recreation Department

2:45 The Missouri River, National Park Service

3:15 Kayak Racing & the 2011 South Dakota Kayak Challenge, Jarett Bies & Steven Dahlmeier

3:45 p.m. SDCKA board meeting/election of officers for 2011.

This conference is open for anyone interested in canoeing or kayaking. The presentations will be focused upon paddling opportunities and experiences, and the presenters will be members of the SDCKA with significant experience in area waters. This is an opportunity to network and establish links with paddlers from the area. There is no admission charge for the conference.

AP: Group works to promote Missouri River Water Trail

2010-12-26T22:24:00.001-06:00

The Associated Press • December 26, 2010

YANKTON – Fourteen informational signs will be installed in spring for canoeists and kayakers using the Missouri River between Yankton and Sioux City, Iowa.

They’ll be located along the Missouri National Recreational River Water Trail. The signs will contain historical and scientific information and denote the mileage between points.

Trail organizer Tim Cowman told the Press & Dakotan newspaper that the historical notes will help visitors realize how much of the river has changed since it was explored by Lewis and Clark.

Various groups are involved in improving public access to the river, establishing trailheads and routes, and building a website to plan float trips and disseminate information.

Save the Date!

2010-12-07T23:14:00.006-06:00

South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association

Annual Conference

Saturday, January 29, 2011

12pm-4pm

The Outdoor Campus

Sioux Falls, SD

Agenda coming soon!

There's another paddle on Saturday, folks

2010-11-01T18:26:00.001-05:00

P1060629
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Like some sort of paddling Energizer Bunnies, Larry, Mary and Dave are planning a cruise on the Big Sioux River in Sioux Falls next Saturday, Nov. 6.

Meet at the river access point on 57th Street at 1 p.m., then take part in the vehicle shuttle first. The cruise will run to Kilian Community College on Sixth Street, so it's a perfect fall run in Downtown Sioux Falls.

Dave said this is a fun trip, and the weather forecast calls for a sunny day with temperatures in the lower to mid 50s.

Dave's number is in the post directly below this one if you have questions. Go, go, go paddling!

Snow Wednesday, but paddle set for Saturday

2010-10-26T10:53:00.001-05:00

IMG_5644.JPG
Originally uploaded by jayalbionheath

Yes, the snow is coming, but on Saturday, Oct. 30, Dave and Mary Finck and Larry Braaten are hosting another cruise, this one on Split Rock Creek in Brandon.

The start time is set for 12:30 p.m. at McHardy Park in Brandon. Do not unload your kayaks or canoes because the group will gather at the park, then drive to the northwest side of Corson for the start.

Participants will drop off boats, then move vehicles back to McHardy Park.There are several small rapids on that stretch of the creek and one portage in the gravel pit. It is a good place for a little break.

Dave said he hopes to see you at this event. If you have any questions you can call him at 605-366-6844.

Weather for Brandon on Saturday: Slight chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with highs near 59. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

Big Sioux trip set for Sunday

2010-10-20T15:20:00.001-05:00

P1060800
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Dave and Mary Finck and Larry Braaten are planning a trip on Sunday, Oct. 24. Gather at 12:30 p.m at the Grandview area, and then paddle down to Klondike .

We will shuttle vehicles first.

The starting spot is just NE of Lake Alvin. It is the road that runs over the Big Sioux River, crossing to become 140th St. It is also called the Grandview Covenant Church road.

Paddlers will head downstream to Klondike to the Iowa side, and take out there, If you have any questions you can call Dave at 605-366-6844. It is a nice run; hope to see you there

Another Iowa trip set for Sunday

2010-10-07T10:18:00.002-05:00

Here's a quick weather update for the cruise Oct. 10 (tomorrow) in Iowa:
Sunday: Slight chance of showers, thunderstorms after 1. Mostly sunny, highs, 78. E winds 3-7 mph. Chance of precip 20 percent.

IMG_5498.JPG
Originally uploaded by jayalbionheath

Dave and Mary Finck, our industrious board members and cruise leaders, are inviting you, your neighbors, and everyone who is in the mood for some October fun to join them in Rock Rapids, Iowa, on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.

The club will host a cruise on the Rock River. This is a re-do of a September cruise, and the river is higher and in great shape for canoes or kayaks.

Meet up at the park - it's located in the north central part of Rock Rapids. The town is about 30-40 minutes from Sioux Falls, go east on Iowa State Highway 9 to reach it.

After folks gather, they will shuttle vehicles, then get started on the run. Call Dave if you have questions, 605-366-6844.

CHANGE OF VENUE - Saturday, Oct. 2

2010-09-29T13:08:00.001-05:00

P1000740
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Due to the flooding conditions on the Big Sioux River and the closing of waters in Minnehaha County, the Split Rock Creek cruise scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 2, has been moved to Lake Alvin.

Cruise leader Gene Preston said he will plan to be at Lake Alvin at the Lake access point on the North side at 1 p.m.

Other members of the South Dakota Canoe and Kayak Association also will be there, and while it will not be a moving-water cruise, the lake is scenic and very full.

Lake Alvin is fed, in part, by the Seven Mile Creek - shown in the photo - that will be worth exploring during the outing. Join us for this substitute adventure. Ryan Snuggerud, a club member, said this of the lake:

"The water is the highest I've ever seen it and it was fantastic to be on Alvin and not hit bottom with my paddle.The dock at the public access was partially under water and unusable. But all bank to the left was really easy to use as a substitute."

Post your questions here or call Gene Preston for more information - his number should be below on the original Oct. 2 trip entry - and consider joining the SDCKA for this fun trip to the lake!

Flooding

2010-09-28T23:20:00.001-05:00

The Split Rock / Big Sioux cruise scheduled for Oct 2nd has been cancelled due to flooding and closure of the waterways in Minnehaha County.

CANCELLED: Two new events this weekend - including moonlight

2010-09-22T09:48:00.002-05:00

***CANCELLED DUE TO HIGH WATER***

P1070590
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Dave and Mary Finck invite all paddlers to a moonlight cruise on Friday, Sept. 24, on the Split Rock Creek in the Garretson City Park.

They will gather there around 7 p.m. and then cruise up the Split Rock above the dam in the park. The water here allows for some scenic cruising, and if you have never paddled in the dark, this is a good and safe place to give it a try. It's a lot of fun.

In addition, Mary, Dave, and Larry Braaten are hosting a trip on the Split Rock Creek starting in Brandon on Sunday, Sept. 26. They are asking paddlers who want to join them to do so around 1 p.m.

If you arrive early, do not unload your boats as the group will only gather at the park, then caravan to a put-in near Corson. I say again, meet in McHardy Park in Brandon, do not unload, then roll to the starting point farther up river on Split Rock.

There is one small portage on the Sunday route, but it's a good place for a rest stop. So join the fun.

Questions? Call Dave at 605-366-6844.

Another Big Sioux trip set: Sunday in Canton

2010-09-16T12:35:00.002-05:00

P1060758
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

We're trying it again! Starting at 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19, Larry Braaten will join Dave and Mary Finck for a cruise re-do from Canton to Newton Hills.

Meet on South Lincoln Street in Canton, near the river, for shuttle work first. Dave said he hopes everyone will try to make it as this is an enjoyable cruise on a nice stretch of the Big Sioux River.

If you have any questions, call Larry at 605-764-5654 or Dave at 605-366-6844.

CANCELLED: Split Rock/Big Sioux trip set for Oct. 2

2010-09-14T17:20:00.002-05:00

BSR April 25-2009 086
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Come and join us for a Fall Canoe Cruise from McHardy Park, in Brandon, to the Highway 38/42 bridge at historic East Sioux Falls (the Arboretum) on Saturday, October 2, 2010.

Meet at 1 P.M. at McHardy Park in Brandon. This route has short stretches of flat water with gentle Class I rapids. A pole is useful on Split Rock Creek when the water is low. The water will probably be the best we have had this time of the year for quite a while.

Deer, fish, muskrat, ducks, owls, turkeys and other wildlife may be seen. The cruise takes about 3-4 hours depending on the water conditions and the skill and goals of the paddlers.

Bring a camera, snacks, and some drinking water and enjoy an afternoon on the water. An alternate route might be used if conditions warrant. The put-in and take-out may be altered depending on conditions. Life vests are required.

For more information call Eugene Preston at 605-582-2573.

*yes, I know this photo is not the location - it is in Flandreau - but it shows paddlers gathering!

Sept. 11: Dells to Baltic run set for 1 p.m.

2010-09-07T08:27:00.002-05:00

P5260011
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

*** UPDATED ON SEPT. 10! THIS EVENT IS CANCELED DUE TO HIGH WATER AND AN EVENT AT BALTIC'S PARK! I SAY AGAIN, NO DELLS-BALTIC CRUISE ON SEPT. 11! SORRY! ***

Dave, Mary, and Larry are again organizing a cruise for all paddlers.

This cruise will be Saturday, Sept. 11 on the Big Sioux River between Dell Rapids and Baltic. It features a set of rapids and, as the picture shows, a nice run through the Dells of the Big Sioux River.

The plan is to meet at the city park in Dell Rapids around 1 p.m. Participants then will shuttle vehicles to Baltic and get things under way.

The water levels are still pretty high, so this run should be about 3 hours, perhaps less depending on paddlers. Call Dave with your questions at 605-366-6844.

Sunday, Sept. 5: Rock River Iowa cruise planned

2010-08-31T14:07:00.002-05:00

rapi4_us
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The club is expanding into Iowa this coming weekend with a cruise on the Rock River on Sunday, Sept. 5.

The plan is to meet at the Rock Rapids, Iowa city park at 1 p.m., and then shuttle vehicles to either Doon or Highway 75, then get underway.

Mary and Dave Finck, along with Larry Braaten, are organizing this event, and they will determine the length upon arrival and shuttle.

This image is courtesy of the USGS site. Not sure how old it is.

Need more info? Call Dave at 605-366-6844.

Vermillion area Missouri River run set for Sept. 12

2010-08-31T10:17:00.001-05:00

P1040968
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

On Sunday, Sept. 12, kayakers and canoeists from the Vermillion/Yankton area are hosting a cruise from Myron Grove river access point to Mulberry Bend, near the Highway 19 bridge on the Nebraska side. It starts at 9 a.m.

Paddlers who want to take part should meet at Myron Grove at 9 a.m. Locals also call Myron Grove access "High Lines." A paid shuttle is available and costs $10 per person. Other shuttling arrangements are TBA.

The run is approximately 11.3 miles and depending on winds should take between 2-4 hours. Goat Island and the Gunderson backwater are areas of interest along the route.

The shuttle service, DJ's Sports Rentals in Yankton, also has kayaks for rent. To get information on their rentals or the shuttle service on Sept. 12, call 605-665-3206 or visit their site at www.djssportsrentals.com.

Updates, to include cancellation if weather goes pear-shaped, are available online at this site: www.mnrrwatertrail.org. SDCKA board member Rick Johns is organizing this on the club side, you can call him at 605-624-9704 or call member Dean Spader at 605-624-6831 for more information on the event.

Myron Grove, the starting point for the Sept. 12 trip, is located at the end of 454th Avenue, and that north-south gravel road (that goes all the way to the water) is about 5-7 miles west of Vermillion.

Mulberry Bend, the end-point, is on the Nebraska side of the Highway 19 bridge. Cross the bridge into Nebraska, then continue south about 1 mile to a quick right turn onto gravel. That road loops back under the bridge and down to the boat ramp/parking area.

Don't forget sunscreen, water, snacks. Feel free to post questions here and we'll answer them.

Short Notice Paddle (SUNDAY, AUG 22 - 3:30pm)

2010-08-21T22:01:00.002-05:00

It is time to enter the water again. Ed Hoffman and Cory Diedrich are planning a SKUNK CREEK run Sunday afternoon.

Meet at Jerry Foy's house around 3:30pm. W 12th north on La Mesa (along the Skunk) - Turn west on Song Bird then turn north Blue Bell - look for the crowd.

We will unload and tranfer vehicles to either Granite City (5.5 miles) or 57th and Western (7 miles).

The river looks great right now. This run includes the best set of rapids and should take a couple of hours after putting in.

Contact Cory if you have questions 605-321-6554

This a a great river to run and it is local!!!

All Clear

2010-08-18T16:16:00.000-05:00

Big Sioux River open for recreational use
STAFF REPORT • ARGUS LEADER • AUGUST 18, 2010

The Big Sioux River is open to recreational use again.

Gov. Mike Rounds has lifted the Aug. 6 executive order that banned people from the river after Sioux Falls pumped sewer water into it to deal with a sewer main collapse.

The city has been monitoring fecal coliform counts, and tests indicate levels are typical for this time of year. The city has stopped all pumping into the river.

Sad news

2010-08-17T09:16:00.003-05:00

We lost a good paddling companion this past weekend. Denny Lewis lost his battle with cancer.

I last talked with Denny at the Earth Day paddle in Flandreau. Due to his condition, he wasn't able to get on the water. He loved the sport so much he drove out to see everyone depart. He longed for a time that he could get back on the water, but admitted it probably would never happen.

Our thoughts & prayers go out to his family.

-----------

Dennis E. Lewis
(April 22, 1952 - August 14, 2010)

Dennis E. Lewis, 58, of Egan, died Saturday, August 14, 2010 at Riverview Manor, Flandreau. Dennis was born April 22, 1952 at Wells, MN to Claude and Vergean (Stombaugh) Lewis. After his mother’s death in 1953 he moved to Egan and was raised by his maternal grandparents Irving and Emma Stombaugh. Dennis was baptized and confirmed at Egan Methodist Church. While in high school he was a member of “The Thirteenth Hour” band and graduated from Egan High School in 1970. Denny married Roberta Babcock on March 30, 1970 in Kingman, AZ. He worked on the construction of the London Bridge at Lake Havasu City, AZ until 1972. He attended Pipestone Vocational School for meat cutting and then worked as a meat cutter for several grocery stores and at John Morrell’s. He started Lewis Construction in 1989. Denny was proud to have his son, Scott, working with him and took pride in their quality of work. He received his private pilot’s license in 2000 and became a certified scuba diver in 2003. Denny was a member of the SD Pilot’s Association, the AAC, SD Canoe and Kayak Association, a former Egan School Board member and had been to 17 continuous years at the Oshkosh, WI air show. Denny enjoyed scuba diving, kayaking, ham radio and constructing intricate train displays.
Dennis is survived by 3 children, Scott (Tiffany) Lewis, Egan, Jennifer (Eric) Valdez, Sherwood, OR, Roxanne Bush, Bryant, SD; 10 grandchildren, Alyssa, Kyle, Kelly, Jessalyn, Alec, Marissa, Vanessa, Cody, Riley, Wyatt; one sister, Claudia (Alan) Beyer, West Branch, IA; a niece, Stacy and special friend, Carole Cook. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Egan Methodist Church with burial at Hillside Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 5:00 PM Tuesday with a 7:00 PM prayer service at Skroch Funeral Chapel, Flandreau.

UPDATES! Location/event change this weekend!

2010-08-12T21:35:00.001-05:00

P1050510
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Due to conditions farther south, the SDCKA will host a cruise at noon on Saturday, Aug. 14, in Egan.

The cruise is about 10 miles and Larry Braaten is the leader for the event. The Egan event replaces both Larry's planned cruise near Canton and ShaRon Kelly's planned cruise near Baltic. This is the only organized event scheduled for the weekend of Aug 14-15.

If you want to join us, gather around noon in Egan. We'll unload there and then shuttle vehicles to the River of the Double Bend Campground in Trent. It's about 10-12 river miles downstream from Egan, and with the water moving so quickly, it should take about 2-3 hours to complete this route, depending on paddler's pace, etc.

Since the river has been so high, expect muddy conditions at both the start and finish. The starting point is the Egan City Park, located on the southeast edge of town. There's an iron bridge that crosses the river, and the park is adjacent.

If you have any questions, call Jarett at 605-941-4940.

CANCELLED: Cabela's Kayak Test Drive

2010-08-10T21:36:00.006-05:00

***Cabela's has decided to postpone this event and hold it next spring.***

If you happen to be in the Mitchell area on Saturday, stop by Cabela's. SDCKA Board Members will be assisting with their kayak demo day.

Saturday, August 14, 2010
Kayak Test Drives
11:00am to 1:00pm
Cabela’s Pond

Whether your looking to get started with your first kayak or if you’re an experienced kayaker wanting to try out some new kayaks, stop outside by our Cabela’s Pond for our Kayak Test Drive Day. Kayak brands that we carry at Cabela’s include Old Town, Emotion and Perception. Members from the South Dakota Canoe and Kayak Association will be present to help out and give you some pointers if it’s your first kayaking experience.

Hopefully we can get back on the water before it snows...

2010-08-05T15:28:00.002-05:00

Executive Order Makes Big Sioux River Use Illegal

KELO TV | August 5, 2010

SIOUX FALLS, SD - Governor Mike Rounds has issued an executive order prohibiting use of the Big Sioux River in Minnehaha and Lincoln counties until further notice. This makes it illegal to use the river and its tributaries throughout these counties.

High water flows along with emergency discharge from the Sioux Falls sanitary sewer system prompted the order.

Officials say it is unsafe to be exposed to the river or its tributaries for recreational purposes.

WARNING: Big Sioux River

2010-08-05T08:56:00.002-05:00

Canton officials advise residents to stay out of Big Sioux River

Argus Leader | August 5, 2010

The City of Canton has issued an advisory for people to stay out of the Big Sioux River after a sewer main break in Sioux Falls Wednesday caused city officials to discharge sewage into the river.

On Wednesday evening Sioux Falls residents west of Minnesota Avenue were asked to stop using water after a sewer pipe broke near the state penitentiary and the intersection of First Avenue and North Drive.

Residents in Sioux Falls also are being asked to avoid the Big Sioux River and Covell Lake after wastewater was discharged into them. Wastewater also was pumped overland north of Falls Park.

As the sewage flows downstream, people south of Sioux Falls also are being asked to be careful.

The City of Canton issued an advisory this morning asking people to stay out of the river after they were advised by Lincoln County Emergency Management to do so, said Amy Nelson, city manager.

Nelson said her main concern besides keeping people out of the water was to let people know that drinking water is safe and there are no issues with Canton’s wastewater system.

“In terms of our wastewater system, it’s working and operable, and it’s not threatened in any way,” she said.

Seriously folks, stay off the water

2010-07-30T10:43:00.007-05:00

I just returned from scouting the river.

Apparently, someone in a canoe decided it would be a good idea to paddle into the river and snap a few photos. This led to a flurry of SF Search & Rescue folks working to find this individual.

I'm not sure of the specifics, but please do not be foolish and attempt to enter swollen rivers.

UPDATE: The apparent canoeist was actually a couple walking along the bike path.

I did, however, spot two kayakers on the river around 1:30pm. Not smart.

Also - the city is letting raw sewage into the river to relieve some pressure from the system. Just another reason to stay out of the water for a while.

57th & Western parking lot for the boat landing

Spencer Park entrance is now being used as a boat ramp for SF Fire & Rescue

SF Fire & Rescue after locating the missing person

Looking downstream from the Yankton Park Bridge

Yankton Park southern bridge

Clean-up event among several right around the corner

2010-07-28T17:41:00.002-05:00

P1060628
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

***UPDATED ON JULY 30! THESE EVENTS ARE AGAIN POSTPONED DUE TO THE FLOODING! CHECK BACK FOR NEW TIMES, IF MOTHER NATURE ALLOWS. I SAY AGAIN, AUG. 1 AND AUG. 4 EVENTS NO LONGER PLANNED DUE TO FLOODING!***

Several new events are rapidly approaching, and all are set on the Big Sioux River.

On Aug. 1, the SDCKA will host a cruise that starts in Canton at 1 p.m. Gathering spot will be near the river access on South Lincoln Street in Canton. Meet up there, then shuttle vehicles to Newton Hills State Park. The group then will paddle down to their cars. It's a great stretch of the river and all are welcome. Call Larry, 605-764-5654, or Dave at 605-366-6844.

On Aug. 4, a Sioux Falls run (shown in the first picture) with a focus on clean-up is set. This event starts at 5:30 p.m. at the river access on 57th Street, located near the DQ. Meet at the lot, then help get trash and junk off the river for a few hours. Dave and Mary Finck are running this operation, so join them if you wish, and if you have questions, call Dave at 605-366-6844.

On Aug. 15, ShaRon Kelly is leading a BSR trip of length - Dells to past Baltic - that starts at 9:30 a.m. The trip is set to highlight the necessity for work on the low-head dams that are near Baltic, and it includes a run through the Dells of the Big Sioux River. ShaRon will meet with folks at 9:30 a.m. and then he and others will shuttle vehicles as needed. There is a long portage around two low-head dams near Baltic. For information on this event, call ShaRon at 605-323-8053.

Moonlight cruise set for Friday night

2010-07-22T14:03:00.003-05:00

P7190314
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

*** UPDATED! THIS EVENT MOVED TO TONIGHT, July 24th, 8 P.M. SAME PLACE, SAME FOLKS, SAME PHONE NUMBER FOR QUESTIONS! ***

Dave and Mary Finck are hosting a gathering on Friday night, July 23, on Split Rock Creek in the Garretson City Park.

They will host a little "moonlight" run that evening and will have both canoes and kayaks if anyone who is boat-less wants to join the fun. Paddlers with boats are welcome, too, and they plan to hang around and kayak until darkness falls.

The moon goes full on Monday, but there should be plenty of fun regardless of the size or shape of the moon. If you have never paddled after dark, it's quite fun and the spot Dave and Mary picked is perfect for first-timers to give it a spin.

Questions? Write Jarett (jbies0341@hotmail.com) or call Dave, 605-366-6844.

City kayak event set for Sunday at 1 p.m.

2010-07-14T16:04:00.001-05:00

IMG_3966.JPG
Originally uploaded by jayalbionheath

Club members Larry Braaten, along with Dave and Mary Finck, are planning a cruise on the Big Sioux River in Sioux Falls on Sunday, July 18.

They will start at a put-in across from the Dairy Queen near Western Ave on 57th Street, then paddle down to a take-out near 14th Street and Cliff Avenue.

The gathering starts at 1 p.m. with a quick shuttle of vehicles. To join them, just show up, or e-mail Jarett and he'll relay your info to Dave, Mary, or Larry.

Don't forget we need volunteers for the July 17 water testing. Please RSVP for this, as we need help to test the Grass Lake water, friends.

Water testing Saturday at Grass Lake

2010-07-12T09:06:00.001-05:00

P1050451
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The SDCKA will take part in water testing efforts starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 17, at Grass Lake. Volunteers for this effort are needed, and we hope to see many kayaks and canoes out at the lake.

Grass Lake is located west of Sioux Falls. To get there, take 12th Street (Highway 42) west of town about 7-10 miles until you reach 459th Avenue. There, turn right (or north) and go about 3 miles. The road curves in several spots, and Grass Lake access is on the west (or left) side just after one of the curves.

The turn to go into the lake comes up quickly, so slow down as you see the lake on the left, a slough (near a trap shooting lodge) on the right.

We'll gather there and Jeremy from Dakota Water Watch will give instructions on what information we'll gather, to include water samples and some data. The forecast is for 86 and partly sunny.

Usually the sampling takes about 90 minutes, depending on the number of paddlers. Mary and Dave Finck are running the show, so to speak, and if you have any questions, you can relay them to Jarett (jbies0341@hotmail.com) or call them at 605-366-6844.

We are hoping to have pre-registration so that the Dakota Water Watch person has a good idea how much equipment to bring, so please call Mary and Dave to confirm you are going, or post a comment here, or e-mail Jarett.

CANCELED! Dells to Baltic run Saturday at 8 a.m.

2010-07-07T08:54:00.002-05:00

CANCELED DUE TO HIGH WATER...look for a new date in the near future.

image004
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Hola amigos!

SDCKA board member Judy Austad is going to lead a cruise on Saturday, July 10, from Dells to Balti on the Big Sioux River. The river is up but not dangerous, but there was more rain last night in Brookings County, so who knows what the wacky Big Sioux will have in store.

Judy welcomes all to the event. Meet up at the Dell Rapids park, then shuttling will start. River splits just past the bridge in Dells, and the trip should take 2-3 hours, depending on the flow.

If rains lead to flooded conditions, the event will be postponed. We'll update the blog again on Friday morning to confirm this run.

If you have questions, write Jarett at jbies0341@hotmail.com and he'll relay the information.

Too high for fun

2010-06-25T08:50:00.001-05:00

P1050233
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

A pair of events set for Saturday and Sunday on the Big Sioux River have been canceled due to the height, depth, and speed of the water.

Until the river gives up a little of its muscle, members organizing the Canton-area cruise on Sunday and the Moonlight cruise on Saturday night (on the Split Rock Creek, which is also quite high) have decided to hold off.

The Argus Leader ran a brief recently on some canoeists who were tipped and had to battle to shore. The river is not to be trifled with, so if you do go out on it, please use all caution, to include telling someone your plans, always wearing a PFD, and of course, knowing your personal limits.

These two pictures, from April and last week, at the same spot, show how high the water has risen. The top image is the put-in at Big Sioux Rec Area, where the muddy path to the water's edge no longer exists.

If anyone does go out, please let us know, so we can keep adding information on the river's levels.

Comparison

2010-06-22T13:26:00.001-05:00

bruce_hatch05
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

This photo accompanies the post below - this was the same stretch of river a couple of years ago, great photo of Big SIoux River paddling!

Living up to its name

2010-06-22T13:09:00.003-05:00

image004
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The Big Sioux River is truly big these days, due in part to all the rain eastern South Dakota has been getting. Paddlers are advised to use caution, but to remember the river is not closed, it's just very high and moving fast.

Paddler Bruce Wylie sent in these images from a trip he did last week on the BSR between Dell Rapids and Baltic. Other paddlers including Pat Dunn said the route took less than half the normal time, and that many alternative shortcuts are formed where the river is flowing across fields and through new channels.

Dunn said a Sunday trip on the route, which normally takes 3-4 hours at this time of year, took her only 90 minutes to complete.

Wylie mentioned that most of the rocks in the rapids at the dells were submerged and that there were not a lot of new sweepers and strainers, so the runs were fun, fast, and smooth.

As with any moving water, caution is key, but the Big Sioux certainly is big especially when compared to its normal state around the end of June.

Don't forget to scroll down, club members are hitting the Big Sioux this weekend, and there's a moonlight paddle upcoming as well.

Here's the low-head dam at Flandreau, showing just how powerful the BSR flow is these days.

Saturday is Marindahl Lake event - 10:30 a.m.

2010-06-17T09:01:00.001-05:00

IMG_0950
Originally uploaded by jayalbionheath

The club is gathering on the shores of Lake Marindahl, not far from Irene, on Saturday, June 19. The event starts at 10:30 a.m.

Rick Johns is hosting the event and will have several of his hand-made boats. He encourages all who attend to bring something to grill and perhaps some chips and drinks. He'll have a grill and some condiments.

Feel free to e-mail Rick at rick.d.johns@gmail.com for more information.

Don't forget member Pat Wellner is looking to lead a cruise on the Missouri River Saturday as well, so if you are up at Oahe Days or in Pierre, give Pat a shout and he'll take you out paddling.

Pat's e-mail is pat.wellner@gmail.com.

Looks like good weather for both events. Make sure to share your photos if you attend so we can let everyone who was busy know what happened.

River trips coming up fast - June 27 on Big Sioux

2010-06-16T16:23:00.001-05:00

P1050095
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Members Larry Braaten and David Finck are hosting a cruise on the Big Sioux River between Canton and Newton Hills State Park on June 27.

The want to start the shuttle process at noon. Meet near the river in Canton, the put-in is just off South Lincoln Street, then the shuttling can do down, and everyone can paddle back to their cars, basically.

The night before (June 26) is a full moon, and Dave and Mary Finck are hoping to host a moonlight cruise on the Split Rock Creek at the Garretson City Park. It's a creek, but dammed, so it should be easy navigation regardless of the amount of light.

Questions? Need directions? Call Larry at 605-764-5654, or Dave at 605-366-6844.

Another June paddling chance on June 19

2010-06-02T11:47:00.001-05:00

P1020174
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

From a Sioux Falls Tourism/museum promo:

"Learn about historic Sioux Falls landmarks while traveling down the Big Sioux River on the History from the River Canoe Trip Saturday, June 19 at 9 a.m.

Take an adventure through Sioux Falls on the Big Sioux River beginning at Farm Field Park off of 57th Street and Western Avenue with several stops along the river to learn about the history of the city.

The trip will conclude downtown. Shuttle service will be available before the trip begins to bring participants to the starting point. $10 Adult $8 Ages 8-17. Call 605-367-4210 for information and registration."

We have not heard if they are looking for help, but we could pry call and see if they would like some experienced paddlers in the mix. Perhaps they would waive the fee if we helped out with shepherding, etc.

A chance to return ...

2010-06-01T19:56:00.001-05:00

P1050022
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

To Sioux City, and to return a favor to the river by joining in a Missouri River Relief clean-up on June 12.

Details are at this link, which you will have to copy and paste into your browser. Or just Google the organization: http://tinyurl.com/2bkr3dc.

The event starts with registration at 8:30 a.m. at the Larsen Park Boat Ramp in Sioux City, near the finish of the South Dakota Kayak Challenge last weekend.

Vols work from 9-noon, get a t-shirt and lunch. This might be a nice little contrib to make, and if anyone feels like carpooling, let's start a list.

Don't forget Saturday, 1-4 p.m. at Family Park Lake in western Sioux Falls is our annual paddling fair. Bring out your boats, let people give them a try.

Wow - so many to thank

2010-05-31T16:07:00.001-05:00

P1040987
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The first-ever South Dakota Kayak Challenge ended with the last of the nearly 90 racers finishing early Sunday afternoon in Sioux City.

The South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association really kicked ass, so many members volunteered, raced, or just contributed a bit of themselves in order for this race to be a success.

We have certainly helped to put South Dakota paddling on the map with the race!

Our concerns and plans turn local now as we get ready for Saturday's Paddling Fair. It's 1-4 p.m. at Family Lake and if you have any questions, write to any board member or call Jarett at 605-941-4940.

We are indeed planning a 2011 South Dakota Kayak Challenge, and we sure hope we can get more paddlers on the water for this super event, and more volunteers to help them enjoy this majestic waterway.

Again, huge thank yous to all the volunteers who made our checkpoints and organization work so well. YOU ROCK!

Oops

2010-05-24T22:10:00.001-05:00

IMG_6732
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Oahe Days/Pierre event is June 19.

Two events coming up AFTER SDKC

2010-05-24T16:21:00.001-05:00

BSR April 25-2009 086
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Sorry, this blog has been ignored as of late, in part due to preparation for the South Dakota Kayak Challenge that takes place in Yankton this weekend. Feel free to write Jarett or Steven if you would like to volunteer for that event.

Beyond the big 85-boat kayak race, we have our annual paddling fair on June 5 at the new Family Lake Park in Sioux Falls. It's running 1-4 p.m. and we encourage ALL members to come out, share their sport, and have some fun.

In addition, on June 12, member Pat Wellner will host a little paddling action in Pierre. It's also Oahe Days, so if you'd like to paddle the Missouri River with a river rat who knows it very well, give Pat a shout, or search for "Pirates of the Missouri" on the Interweb.

His blog of the same name is also linked to this one.

We'll continue to update you with more events as they come up this summer.

Huge thanks to everyone for getting the word out about the race, and for taking time to volunteer and contribute.

CANCELLED:May 22: Missouri River Cruise

2010-05-11T08:35:00.002-05:00

From my inbox

Due to the dangers of high winds, the May 22 Canoe and Kayaking event on the Missouri River from Highline to Mulberrry Point has been cancelled. Visit www.mnrrwatertrail.org for further information.

Join area river enthusiasts for an outing on the Missouri River Water Trail. The route will be from Myron Grove (Highlines) near Meckling, SD to Mulberry Bend near the Newcastle-Vermillion Bridge. We will meet at the Myron Grove boat ramp at 9:00am. (To get to Myron Grove, drive east from Yankton or west from Vermillion on Highway 50 to 454th Ave, then turn south and drive 6.5 miles to the Missouri River.) Unique features of this segment of the river include Goat Island and the Gunderson Backwater.

Shuttle service from the takeout back to Myron Grove will be provided by DJ’s Sports Rentals of Yankton until 2:00pm for $10 per person payable at the event. Provide your own kayak/canoe, or rent one in advance from DJ’s (605-665-3206). www.djssportsrentals.com). No guide service will be provided; you must be able to navigate on your own. If you have any event questions, you may contact Rick Johns of the SD Canoe and Kayak Association at 605-624-9704, or Dean Spader at 605-624-6831.

For event updates and more information about the water trail, visit www.mnrrwatertrail.org

May 8: Missouri River Clean-up

2010-05-03T18:04:00.002-05:00

From www.keepyanktonbeautiful.org:

In 2009 over 200 volunteers attended this event to cleanup the banks of the Missouri River near Yankton. Boaters covered 12 miles of banks on the South Dakota and Nebraska side and collected over 7.14 tons of garbage. Thank you to everyone who helped with this event to protect one of the areas greatest natural resource!

Volunteers are needed to help at The Great Missouri River Cleanup event. Volunteers will be collecting trash along the shoreline. Gloves and vests will be provided. Keep Yankton Beautiful will serve coffee, juice and donuts at the morning kick-off meeting. Hot dogs and hamburgers will served for the noon lunch.

LOCATION: Riverside Park Boat Ramp - Yankton SD
May 8th 8am - Noon or 1pm

Email info@keepyanktonbeautiful.org with questions.

Get on the BSR Saturday - Klondike - 1 p.m.

2010-04-29T08:57:00.001-05:00

P1010893
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

SDCKA cruise director Larry Braaten and Dave Finck are planning a cruise this Saturday, May 1, on the Big Sioux River between the Klondike and Canton. Gathering starts at 1 p.m.

This trip is a good one - plenty of wildlife and the river is running nicely - and all members and paddlers alike are welcome to take part in this free event.

Folks will begin shuttling vehicles to Canton around 1 p.m. You can call Dave with questions at 605-366-6844.

Here's the way the Klondike looked last year.

It's a simple trip - probably 2-3 hours - and there's often owls and other birds of prey. Join the group - it's fun - and the Klondike road is pretty easy to find. From I-29, take the County Highway 116/276th Street exit, then head east until you hit the river. That exit is the one right before (heading S) the Worthing exit. Or the one right after Worthing if you are heading N.

Volunteers needed for the race - it starts here!

2010-04-28T16:34:00.001-05:00

P1040568
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The South Dakota Kayak Challenge is set for May 29-30 on the Missouri River between Yankton, S.D. and Sioux City, Iowa, and its organizers seek volunteers to make the race a smashing success.

The race is about 70 miles in length and racers will have 36 hours to complete the course. Currently about two dozen racers are signed up and a grand total of racers could reach 50.

The organizers are seeking volunteers for the following duties:

Registration: Help racers get their packets, answer questions about Yankton and the region, and provide other miscellaneous help or information. This will take place between 5-7 p.m. on the night before the race, May 28. We are seeking between 5-10 people for this duty, depending on the number of racers.

Pre-race set up: Help racers set up for the starting gun that takes place at 7 a.m. on May 29 at Riverside Park in Yankton. Basically helping make sure people are in the right place as the event starts, assisting unsupported crews with their gear, helping out as necessary. Checkpoint staff will synchronize watches/phones/iPods at this event, too.

Checkpoints: The race will have four checkpoints and we'll have staff/volunteers at the first one by 11 a.m. Volunteers at checkpoints will watch for racers and when they approach, they will record the racer's number and team name. We'll have “rolling” checkpoints so the racers need not exit their boats, just get close enough so the checkpoint staff can get the info, then off they go. We also will have ice and water for racers at the checkpoints.

On-water safety/spotters: We invite any and all boaters to follow our racers to make sure they are OK and so we have an idea when to close and open checkpoints as we go. This is open to powered and non-powered watercraft.

On-land safety/spotters: We will have some folks at a variety of points to make sure we are attuned to the progress of the racers, these jobs will open/close as the race progresses down the river.

Finish line staff: We'll need about 5-10 people to record the finishes of racers as they cross the finish line at the entrance of the marina at Bev's on the Water in Sioux City, and we'll need a few strong volunteers to assist racers in exiting the water and hauling their boats and gear up from the marina to the staging area.

Finish line will also have a tent to give racers water/beverages and to record their information for awards.

Awards staff: Seek two to three people to help with awards and other sundry closing ceremony duties.

If you would like to volunteer, call Jarett Bies at 605-941-4940, or Steven Dahlmeier at 605-864-9011. Or you can e-mail Jarett at jbies0341@hotmail.com, or Steven at steven@sdkayakchallenge.org.

For more information on the event, visit the South Dakota Kayak Challenge website at this link: http://sdkayakchallenge.org.

Share your sport opportunity on May 27

2010-04-28T16:18:00.001-05:00

P1000718
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls will host an adult paddling skills class from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 27, at the ODC's pond.

The ODC has asked the club to lend a hand. Anyone who would like to take part and share their knowledge is welcome to do so. Some members may not be able to due to the South Dakota Kayak Challenge race that weekend.

If you want more information, e-mail Jarett at jbies0341@hotmail.com and he can put you in touch with the organizer at the Outdoor Campus.

Great outing, albeit with variety of weather

2010-04-28T16:06:00.001-05:00

P1040646
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Here's a short video of the Earth Day trip. Seven of us took part and we did face fog and - as you can see - rain, but in all, it was a hoot. This video shows everyone paddling.

By the time we took a break, it was sunny, and many of us stripped out of rain layers and coats.

It was a great trip, overall. We left right at 10 a.m. and we were off the water before 1 p.m.

You won't know if you don't go

2010-04-24T16:04:00.001-05:00

Earth Day 2010 -edit
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The lucky seven in this photo found out Flandreau was going to have some sun after noon on the annual Earth Day trip.

The group finished in about 2.5 hours on a day that started with fog, followed with rain, then finished with sunshine.

In all, it was a hoot. More photos and video to follow.

Remember that May 22, the club is joining other groups on a Missouri River run that starts near Vermillion. Details will come in no time.

Have a great weekend.

Put-in view looks pretty good

2010-04-23T14:36:00.001-05:00

P1040587
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Remember, tomorrow, rain or shine, we are having our Earth Day paddle from the powwow grounds 1 mile north of Flandreau to the dam in the city.

It is a 9-12 mile paddle. Should take 2-3 hours. We'll start shuttling vehicles around 9-9:15 a.m. We aim to launch the cruise at 10 a.m.

In the event of lightning in the area, we will postpone the event.

As the picture shows, the river is high but not too high, it might actually work to our advantage. And the trip will be a bit shorter. You can see how fast the water's moving in this video.

Niobrara action!

2010-04-23T13:40:00.001-05:00

DSCN4366
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Check out this cool video Cory D. shot on the Niobrara trip. More videos on Jarett's flickr account. They rock!

Overview for Saturday

2010-04-18T23:29:00.001-05:00

Earth Day cruise set for Saturday at 10 a.m.

2010-04-18T23:17:00.002-05:00

The 2010 Earth Day cruise starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 24, on the Big Sioux River near Flandreau. It's a 9-12 mile trip that ends near the lowhead dam in town. It should take about 2-3 hours, depending on wind and water.

Paddlers should meet at the powwow grounds about 1 mile north of Flandreau on SD Highway 13. We'll shuttle vehicles starting around 9-9:15 a.m., then circle back with hopes of a 10 a.m. launch. Click on any of these photos/maps for a bigger view.

Here's a close-up of the put-in spot at the powwow grounds:

Here's a look at the dam - there's plenty of parking on the nearside, and if we run out there's a ton on the other side of the river.

Last year, some paddlers who wanted a longer trip continued down river to Egan. It can add 2-3 more hours of trip to your day on the water. Let me know if anyone wants to do this so we can shuttle vehicles to Egan as well as to the dam.

Bring a dry bag with a spare set of clothing. The water will be bone-chilling and a simple mistake can lead to dangerous conditions. Having dry clothes along might seem superfluous but it could save a life.

I hope these maps help.

Early report from Niobrara River cruise

2010-04-18T23:04:00.001-05:00

IMG00285
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

SDCKA member Brian Wells was among the kayakers who took part in the Niobrara River cruise that wrapped up today.

He sent in this photo of the club pulled off on the bank.

We'll post more photos and reports about the trip as they come in to us.

Don't forget Saturday's event: Powwow grounds north of Flandreau, shuttle vehicles at 9:15, launch at 10 a.m.

River reports

2010-04-13T10:22:00.001-05:00

image007
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

SDCKA member Bruce W. hit the Big Sioux River between Hawarden, Iowa and Akron, Iowa. Great weather and good scenery - photos show the bald eagles his group spotted along the way. Thanks for the report, Bruce & Co.

Ryan S., a member from Sioux Falls, paddled the Split Rock Creek between Palisades State Park and Brandon recently as well.

He said that this is a great section of creek for anyone looking for fast moving water/rapids.

"The gauge at Corson currently is reading about 225 CFS. At this level, I was able to paddle through all the rapids without having to portage," Ryan said. "However, most of the rapids left scratches on my boat. Water levels in between the rapids are more than adequate."

He also said there were no fences (electric or barbed) to contend with in this section.

Don't forget the Niobrara trip is this weekend - call or e-mail Pete Larsen (see posts below for that info) to join up. And April 24 is our Earth Day event at Flandreau.

Earth Day Paddle: April 24th

2010-04-08T10:49:00.002-05:00

Powwow Grounds (north of Flandreau) to the Flandreau Dam
Saturday, April 24th
10am launch

More details coming soon

April Niobrara River trip details

2010-03-30T10:30:00.001-05:00

Niobrara River
Originally uploaded by jjacobsen1

South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association to host Niobrara River trip April 17-18

VALENTINE, NEB. – SDCKA member Pete Larsen will lead an overnight trip on the Niobrara River on April 17.

Participants will meet at 9:30 a.m. on April 17 near the dam located about 5 miles east of Valentine, Neb. on Highway 12. Paddlers then will shuttle vehicles to Smith Falls State Park, the location of Saturday night’s camping spot.

Pete said he hopes the trip will start at approximately 11 a.m. Saturday. The first day’s travel will take about four hours. Camping is available Friday night, so if anyone wants to meet Pete a night early to prepare for the next day’s travel, feel free to join in and camp near the location before the cruise begins.

Bring your Dutch ovens for a community cookout on Saturday night at the park, if you are an enthusiast of this style of cooking. There is no requirement to do so, but participants must “fend for themselves” when it comes to food on the trip.

On Sunday morning, the vehicles will again be moved down river, this time to Rocky Ford Campground. This will be the site of the trip’s conclusion. Everyone should be back to their vehicles and ready to roll home around 2 p.m. Sunday afternoon, April 18.

There is no cost to take part in this event, but you must provide your own canoe or kayak, camping gear, food, and water. There’s a $4 fee for camping at Smith Falls and a daily park fee of $4 per vehicle. In the past, river volunteers have collected a $1 fee for paddlers and tubers, but due to the early season nature of this trip, there may not be anyone there to collect it.

To make this cruise event successful, Pete hopes to get confirmed numbers on participants prior to April 15.

Direct any questions you might have about this trip to Pete, who you can call during the day at 605-934-1995 day or in the evenings at 605-934-2338. Or e-mail him at leisuresports@alliancecom.net.

Information on the Niobrara River is available online at these links:

National Park Service Web site on the river
http://www.nps.gov/niob/index.htm

Google photo collection of the area
http://tinyurl.com/yhc6z5w

Valentine, Neb. Web site with river information
http://www.visitvalentine.com/attractions/Niobrara.aspx

Niobrara River trip set for April 17-18

2010-03-28T17:31:00.001-05:00

Niobrara River
Originally uploaded by adventures of eek

An exciting early season paddling cruise is set for Saturday and Sunday, April 17-18, on the Niobrara River, near Valentine, Neb.

SDCKA member Pete Larsen invites paddlers to join him on a two-day, one-night camping trip on this scenic river that is about 4.5 hours drive from Sioux Falls.

The cruise begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday vehicle shuttle and launch about 11 a.m. A four-hour paddle is the plan for the first day.

Individuals and/or groups must provide their own food, but Pete suggested anyone who enjoys dutch oven cooking should bring their gear and recipes for a campsite potluck of sorts.

Sunday's paddle is about 4 hours as well. Participants should be loading up to drive home about 2 p.m. that day.

I'll put a more detailed post about this trip up tomorrow. You can call the toll-free number to the right of this entry to reach Pete and sign on for this cruise. Please confirm your participation before Tax Day, April 15.

We invite members familiar with the area to share their stories here on the blog.

Don't forget the South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association Earth Day cruise is Saturday, April 24, at the powwow grounds north of Flandreau on the Big Sioux River.

AP: Recreation Allowed Again On Big Sioux River In SD

2010-03-25T17:57:00.000-05:00

SIOUX FALLS, SD - Restrictions on boating and other recreation on the Big Sioux River in southeast South Dakota have been lifted.

Gov. Mike Rounds on Thursday signed an order rescinding the restrictions put in place last week.

Local officials had requested the restrictions amid concerns the flooded river wasn't safe. They now say the threat has passed, but caution should be used.

© 2010 Associated Press. All rights reserved. Material may not be redistributed.

Sunday is officially our next pool session

2010-03-23T09:25:00.001-05:00

P1040288
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Please join us Sunday, March 28, for another YWCA pool session in Sioux Falls. We start at 11 a.m. sharp and need to have left the building before 1 p.m.

A number of members are signed up to take part, so we should have a good crowd of paddlers. It's a good time to sharpen skills, practice rolls, or just wet exit for experience.

If you scroll down the blog you can find more information on the YWCA's location, how to get in the back door, and where to park.

Feel free to write Jarett (jbies0341@hotmail.com) with questions.

See you Sunday!

Extra-big Big Sioux

2010-03-20T15:53:00.001-05:00

GetAttachment-1
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Several SDCKA members sent in some photos, like this one in the Egan park where the 2009 Earth Day cruise ended, showing the extent of ice movement and flooding along the Big Sioux River.

Photos below include Flandreau, Dell Rapids, and Egan. Thanks to Dave and Judy for sending in some river information.

Dell Rapids park area

Flandreau City Park area

Powwow grounds north of Flandreau

Looking downriver on 13 bridge

All of the photos were taken this week, and conditions are changing rapidly, so this is merely a snapshot of how the river is going through its spring cleaning.

Argus Leader: Overflowing Big Sioux River off-limits for recreational use

2010-03-17T15:23:00.001-05:00

The overflowing Big Sioux River is off-limits for recreational use until further notice.

Gov. Mike Rounds took the advice of the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Department and signed a declaration that closes the river starting today, according to Capt. Jim Hoekman.

“Because of the high water, it's not safe,” Hoekman said.

Signs will be posted at the two canoe launch zones in Sioux Falls - in Yankton Trail and Rotary parks - and throughout the county at high-traffic intersections, according to Regan Smith with the city's Office of Risk and Emergency Management.

The last time the river was closed for recreation during the spring thaw was 1997, he said.

A violation of the temporary rule is a class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $500 or both.

-John Hult/Argus Leader

March 14 pool session successful: Should we plan another pool day?

2010-03-15T09:10:00.001-05:00

P1040317
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Here's a sweet video of Pete Larson rolling his kayak, notice he doesn't even need a spray skirt in this one!

About a dozen members turned up for the March 14 pool training session. Here's a few videos of the work done. We'd be willing to rent the pool at least one more time.

Please e-mail Jarett (jbies0341@hotmail.com) or Steven (dahlmeis@hotmail.com) or call either one of them, to secure a spot.

If we fill it up, we'll make it happen. Write asap, please, so we can make this move.

Sunday will be chillier than usual

2010-03-13T13:11:00.001-06:00

P5170175
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Howdy, all.

Just a quick note to let you know a few facts about Sunday's 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. pool session at the YWCA in Sioux Falls.

1) The pool's boiler broke down this week, so the water is not as warm as usual.

2) The event is still a go.

3) YWCA members are still swimming laps in the 70-degree water, so it's not like a Lake Superior simulator. But not as warm as past events, either.

4) The YWCA whirlpool/hot tub is still working, so it could provide relief for us if people get down-right chilled.

Hope to see you there tomorrow - currently about 10 folks are planning to be at the session. Just wanted to let everyone know about the colder-than-usual conditions we'll face.

You can help log S.D. ice-outs

2010-03-12T10:27:00.001-06:00

IMG_4037.JPG
Originally uploaded by jayalbionheath

A gentleman from Journey North: A Global Study of Wildlife Migration and Seasonal change has invited us to contribute information about ice-out dates in South Dakota. It's a good way to count down the days until full-on paddling season is here!

To contribute, all you have to do is keep an eye on a waterway you see often. Let's say you drive by Lake Vermillion regularly. Watch as the ice recedes, and when it appears the lake has reach complete ice-out, write Jarett @ jbies0341@hotmail.com and he'll submit your information.

If you would rather submit your ice-out report directly to Journey North, you can do so at this link, which you will have to copy and paste into your browser:

http://www.learner.org/cgi-bin/jnorth/jn-sightings

Or Google "Journey North" and click on the "Report Sightings" choice.

If you send your information to me, include the date, lake or river, and a bit of information, like this:

"Lake Poinsett is ice free on March 25. Several days of warm, southerly winds have done their job and we're ready to paddle the lake!"

It's an easy, spam-free way to share information about our waters with the rest of world, and it helps Journey North, which seems like a good outfit.

Plus it shows the world we are avid paddlers champing at the bit to get on the water. (Thanks to Jay Heath for this photo of ice and kayaking.)

Questions? Write Jarett.

Next pool session set for March 14

2010-03-02T14:55:00.002-06:00

P5170168
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

We'll host a second pool session at the YWCA in SIoux Falls on March 14.

The event is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (REMINDER: DAYLIGHT SAVINGS) and free for members; small surcharge for non-members to cover the $50-per-hour pool rental.

Pool work can help you develop skills you won't get in open water. Plus it's warm and clean. Your boat must be clean, too, to use it in the pool.

Write Jarett at jbies0341@hotmail.com for more information or to confirm a spot. We aim to keep the number of paddlers around a dozen. If we have enough interest we might seek to add additional pool sessions in March or April.

The YWCA is located on 11th Street and Dakota Avenue in beautiful downtown Sioux Falls.

March 14th Pool Session

2010-03-01T09:18:00.003-06:00

P5170172
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

The South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association will host a YWCA pool training session starting at 11 a.m. on Sunday, March 14, 2010.

The event takes place at the YWCA, 300 W. 11th St. in Sioux Falls.

Paddlers should bring their own clean boats for pool work. Members will do their best to loan boats to those without, but the session ends at 1pm.

Life jackets/PFDs are required in the pool. We would like to have a head count soon, so if you are planning to attend, e-mail Jarett Bies at jbies0341@hotmail.com.

If you're coming, don't forget to bring spray skirts, dive masks or goggles, or any other gear you might use in a self-rescue or to keep water out of your nose during rolling practice.

There's a door just off Dakota Avenue (on the east side of the Y) that goes directly into the pool area. Please plan to take kayaks in and out there, and bring extra towels to wipe down your boats afterwards, to keep the water from freezing.

See you on the 14th!

Unloading & parking directions

Sioux Falls does have open water

2010-02-04T14:24:00.001-06:00

image045
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Bruce W. from Sioux Falls doesn't let winter slow his paddling. He shared these pictures from a recent outing he made in a skin-on kayak he constructed himself.

Bruce said he kayaked from Highway 121 and Rice Street up towards the city's water treatment area. From the looks of his pictures, it seems like he had an eye-opening trip on water in winter.

Bruce has a Web site documenting his kayak build, it's at this link, which you will pry have to copy and paste to visit the site.

http://sio.midco.net/a1b2c3/sewBdog.htm

Good work, Bruce, on three fronts: He is paddling in winter, building his own boat, and sharing it with the entire South Dakota Canoe and Kayak Association, just like you should do!

Great conference and NEW name

2010-02-04T09:31:00.001-06:00

IMG_3237
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Welcome to the first official post of the newly reminted South Dakota Canoe and Kayak Association. Yes, the name change was voted upon and is official: We're the SDCKA, folks, to reflect the changing nature of our club.

But remember: Regardless of your craft, and number of blades, if you paddle in Sodak, you are welcome in our club.

The annual conference in Sioux Falls was light on boats, but not on information-sharing and fun. Presenters shared their 2009 experiences with the 30-50 people who gathered, and a number of dynamic Q and A sessions helped get more info to the people who could use it.

The club sends its thanks out to all who attended and to the Outdoor Campus for their assistance and willingness to let us use their fine facilities.

This is the online home of the club, and we remind all comers that if you have a question, e-mail either Web master (e-mail addresses are on the right side of this blog) and we'll get it out to the public.

In addition, anyone hosting an event, looking to sell a boat, or any other endeavor - we're here to help.

Many thanks to all the Dick Davidson friends and family who traveled to be with us. Here's to hoping the auction raised a fair amount of money for Boy Scouts and that everyone had fun at Bracco.

More news and fresh posts coming soon.

See YOU tomorrow!

2010-01-29T14:00:00.001-06:00

P1000737
Originally uploaded by Iron Bieso

Last-day reminder of our fun, off-water event at the Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls.

The SDCA Annual Conference will be a regular old hootenanny and we'll be looking for you at noon!

Come on out - remember we have an evening program at Bracco's, too.

All the details are spelled out below!

Agenda for Annual Conference

2009-12-07T09:51:00.002-06:00

Don't forget to save the date! Jan. 30 will mark our 2010 annual conference meeting at the Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls.

Here's the agenda:

SOUTH DAKOTA CANOE ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2010
Noon – 4:00 p.m.
The Outdoor Campus
4500 S. Oxbow Ave
Sioux Falls, S.D.

12:00 Welcome from Gene Preston, President SDCA
12:10 SDCA Year in Review – Cruising, Public Service, Safety
Brief remarks by SDCA directors about events of the year
12:20 Kayaking Down the Cheyenne River, Jarett Bies and pals
1:00 Kayaking along the Missouri River, Pat Wellner (Pirates of the Missouri)
1:35 Canoeing the Boundary Waters, David and Mary Finck
2:00 Break
2:15 Total Fitness and Having Fun, Ed and Kay Hoffman
2:50 The Missouri River Kayak Challenge for 2010 – Jarett Bies and Steve Dahlmeier
3:00 Reflections on the Life and Adventures of Dick Davidson - Dave Greenlee
3:35 Business Meeting
• Election of Officers – Gene Preston
• Plans Ahead for the SDCA in the Coming Year – President Elect of the SDCA

Evening Agenda – Bracco Restaurant 5001 S. Western Avenue, Sioux Falls

4:30 Silent auction of camping and canoeing gear of Dick Davidson with proceeds to be donated to the Boy Scouts – Lee Snyder
5:15 Dinner ordered from the menu
6:15 Travels with Dick, the adventurous life and contributions of Dick Davidson – Lee Snyder

In addition, all attendees are welcome to bring gear to sell or trade, so if you have an old paddle you want to part with, PFDs you no longer use, or anything of that nature, bring it out.

Hope to see you there!