Join us for our next monthly speaker series — Paddling on the Big Rivers — on Tuesday, February 14 at 6:30pm! We'll be joined by Craig Heaton, river paddling expert and Sierra Club Outings Leader. Craig illustrate the joy of paddling on big rivers such as the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois. Here in the Metro East, we're lucky enough to live at the confluence of these three large rivers, and can experience the beauty of these watersheds up close by paddling on these rivers. While some paddlers can be intimidated by such a large river, Craig will review the "do's" and "don'ts" that can make a paddling experience safe and fun. He'll discuss forecasting wind and temperature and how these variables impact paddlers. He'll also review hazards such as 'wing' dikes, barge traffic, recreational boats, fog, and communication with lock and dams. Finally, Craig will also review some of the amazing technology available to paddlers, such as GPS, marine radios, emergency beacons, and useful smartphone apps. With the right equipment, technology, and knowledge, more people can get on the river to enjoy paddling experiences!

The Speaker Series will be held in-person at the Old Bakery Beer Company at 400 Landmarks Boulevard in Alton, Illinois. The speaking program will begin at 6:30pm in the room adjacent to Old Bakery Beer Company's dining room. There is a virtual option to tune into the speaking program via Zoom for folks who are unable to join us in-person. Register here to join us (either virtually or in-person) for our February Speaker Series to learn more about padding on the big rivers!