Re: [Paddlewise] Peace River experience

I have also experienced scenes similar to what was described on the
Peace while I was on other rivers, and I thought there were too many
people being put on the river. But, I don't think it is fair to assume
that all private boating parties are good and all outfitters are bad. Of
course - it depends.

I have watched an outfitter regularly pick up trash along the river (so
his customers would have a nice time and perhaps to help compensate for
his customers' impact). He was mostly cleaning up the trash of private
boaters and fisherman, however.

I have also seen a guide/outfitter's group stand out in a positive way
while in a sensitive area. I was along with a commercial trip (from a
paddling school) that had a small number of kayakers who were learning
how to tread lightly in this fragile area and how to avoid disturbing
the marine mammals and other wildlife. We saw many examples of careless
private boaters and renters who refused to use good sense (or follow the
marine mammal protection regulations). The guide even tried to nicely
inform some private boating "nature lovers" they were actually
disturbing the seals and otters they were trying to watch (who were
obviously way too close by anyone's good sense).

I found it ironic that this commercial trip not only behaved the way a
private group from a conservation club would behave, but also taught the
customers how to become responsible paddlers and not add to the probems
if they were to ever return as private boaters or renters.

Frank 

***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************