Paddle Florida Mission Statement, General Policies
and Registration Logistics

Mission - General Policies - Registration - Safety - Itinerary - Campsites - Shuttles - Menus - Workshop

Mission Statement:

Paddle Florida is a week-long paddling adventure, open to all paddling skill levels, created for the sole purpose of having a great time while engaging and empowering citizens so that they may become involved in the protection and restoration of Florida’s rivers. We hope that each year Paddle Florida will serve to promote nature-based tourism in North Central Florida.
If you wish to be pampered by professional guides, this isn’t the trip for you. But, if you want to experience a real community, brought together under a common goal and by the thrill of adventure, Paddle Florida is the trip for you.

General Policies

Baggage:
Each paddler is limited to two bags and a total of 40-pounds of luggage. You have to haul your baggage and place it in the trailer each morning, and haul it back to your campsite each evening of the trip. After paddling all day (about 8,000 paddle strokes per day), a 40-pound bag is really heavy. We recommend you pack as lightly and tightly as possible. This saves your back and the backs of your fellow paddlers. Everyone is expected to assist with the loading and unloading of the truck during the week.

Items we would rather not see in your luggage include chaise lounges, framed bedding/cots and plastic boxes without tops.
Your gear should be packed so that it will not get wet. In the afternoon, your baggage will be removed and placed outside the gear truck where it will be exposed to the elements. Furthermore, overnight rains may result in gear being packed up wet. A wet tent on top of your clothes bag will result in wet clothes. Plan on inclement weather and make sure you have a bag that will protect important gear in the event of rain.

Please place a label on your luggage with your name on It and make sure your bags are secure!!!

Getting to the River
Paddle Florida provides two options for getting you to the river and shuttled back to your vehicle—our Kick Off and River’s End shuttles, available for an additional charge of $50 ($25/person and $25/boat). Please review the information toward the end of this document to decide if you wish to utilize one of these shuttles.

Directions to the Madison Blue Springs Launch Site
Madison Blue Springs is approximately 10 miles (16 km) east of Madison on the west bank of the Withlacoochee River. From Madison, drive east on SR 6 to the Withlacoochee River. Turn south on the west side of the bridge at the park sign. Spring is 525 ft (160 m) south of the highway. Address: 8300 N.E. State Road 6 Lee, FL 32059 — Phone: 850-971-5003
 

Registration

All participants will register on arrival at Madison Blue Springs State Park.  At registration, you will receive your registration packet, which includes items like your Paddle Florida T-shirt and your on-river maps.

Registration Times:              March 26, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. or March 27, 7 a.m.-8 a.m.

You will need to check in at the Paddle Florida registration area at the park entrance.  You will be given your registration packet and credential.  You then will proceed to the designated camping area to set up your campsite before going to dinner and the mandatory paddler’s meeting near the campsite at 6:30 p.m. 
If you have your boat, you will drop it off at the designated launch area near the river.  The guard at the gate or Paddle Florida staff will direct you to the beach boat drop-off.   
All vehicles must be left in the lot designated for this purpose.  Vehicles will remain there during your week on the Suwannee River.

Boat Drop Off Times: March 26, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. or March 27, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.

 Paddle Florida Safety Guidelines

Paddle Florida participants should be aware that while Paddle Florida staff and safety personnel will be available on the river during each day’s paddle, we cannot personally secure the safety of all participants. Unlike a commercial trip in which paid guides direct you through each bend of the river, Paddle Florida is designed to be your adventure, and as such, you are responsible for your own safety.

The following guidelines should be understood before disembarking and followed during the entirety of your Paddle Florida adventure.

Paddle Florida Safety Policies

1.   People-powered watercraft only.

2.   All paddlers must attend the pre-launch briefing at the first meeting at our designated campsite after dinner. Paddlers must adhere to the guidelines presented.

3.   Paddlers must wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD) while on the river.

4.   Paddlers under age 18 are the responsibility of and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

5.   Sorry, no pets allowed.

6.   All paddlers must sign a Waiver of Claims and Release of Liability form. Parents must sign for children under the age of 18. (These forms are available for download at the Web site.)

7.   Alcoholic beverages are prohibited

8.   All paddlers must respect private property along the river.

Violations of these policies can result in the participant being removed from the event without refund.

Skill Level Required
Paddle Florida is suitable for novice paddlers. Paddlers should have a basic understanding of paddle strokes and should be able to control their vessels in moving water. Paddle Florida is primarily a flatwater paddle on a moving river. There are occasional areas of “fast” water along the route.  If you are a beginning paddler, we recommend you register for our paddling workshop held at 4 p.m. on Thursday. The workshop will be held at the beach near the launch area.

Weather
Average High Temperature: low 60sF to 80F; Average Low Temperature: 20s and 30sF to 50F
Average March Rainfall: about 5 inches; Chance of Sunshine: 70 percent
Thunderstorms and high winds are a possibility this time of year in North Florida. In the event of inclement weather that includes the risk of lightning, paddle to shore, secure your boat and find cover under a dense stand of small trees. Avoid open areas, especially open areas with solitary trees, and avoid gathering in large groups. By dispersing yourselves over a large area, you reduce the risk of lightning striking numerous individuals at one time.
Sun and Heat—Hats and appropriate sun screen are recommended. If you get too hot, the river comes with built in air conditioning.

Hazards
Strainers—Strainers are branches, trees or vegetation partially or totally submerged in the river’s current often found along the river’s edge. These hazards allow only water to pass through freely. The current will pull anything else down, plastering it into place, similar to the action of a kitchen colander. It is best to approach submerged trees or logs along the river bank from the downstream side to avoid having the current pin your boat against the obstacle or flipped by the force of the water. You should also avoid grabbing on to low hanging branches of partially submerged vegetation as this action can often cause your boat to capsize. To avoid a multi-boat pile up, leave enough room between boats to allow each boat to safely navigate around these obstacles.

Water Temperature—While the Suwannee is not the coldest of rivers (after all we are in Florida), the combination of cold water and a cold afternoon thunderstorm raises the risk of dangerous changes in body temperature. Be prepared with rain gear and layered clothing that stays warm even when wet (avoid cotton).

Trash—Proper footwear and exercising caution can prevent unnecessary injuries. Participants should wear sandals or shoes that provide adequate protection from broken bottles, rusted appliance parts and tin cans and anything else you might find on the river bottom.

Venomous Snakes—The Suwannee and the land surrounding it are potential habitats for three venomous snakes—rattlesnakes, copperheads and water moccasins. If you encounter any snakes, simply leave them alone. Should you have the misfortune of being bitten, remain calm and get medical assistance as quickly as possible. Bites from these venomous snakes are rarely fatal, given proper medical attention.  At any given moment on this trip you will not be more than a few hours from a hospital.

Alligators—You are in Florida, the habitat of the American alligator. These creatures are usually shy and flee as soon as they encounter a human. However, sporting about in an area where you are not at the top of the food chain should give you pause for thought.  Alligators normally do not consider humans prey—but... Bottom line: swim at your own risk.

Terra Firma—On its journey through North Central Florida the River winds past varied terrain. Please step carefully when paying visits to land.

Your Fellow Paddlers—This is a journey involving many individuals with varying degrees of skill. Space yourselves so that you do not interfere with one another when running shoals or faster water and when maneuvering around strainers.

What to Bring on the Water

1. PFD—every Paddle Florida participant must wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device while on the river (no ifs, ands or buts)
2. Every canoe should have two lines, a bow line and a stern line, each 8-10 feet in length, secured in such a way that they are readily accessible, but cannot come  loose accidentally. Loose rope increases the risk of entanglement in the event of capsize.  Kayaks should have grab-loops at both bow and stern.
3. An extra throw rope in case of emergencies should be stored safely in each boat.
4. Attach a whistle to your life vest or body to signal for help in case of emergency.
5. A Knife
6. Waterproof matches or other fire source in waterproof covering.
7. First Aid Kit—Each vessel should bring a first aid kit stored inside a waterproof covering.
8. A repair kit—each vessel should be able to make their own repairs (duct tape, sealant, waterproof tape and other materials are recommended)
9. Rain Gear—Be prepared to get wet and potentially cold. Every participant should have access to a lightweight jacket or cover, rain jacket and rain pants in a waterproof covering.
10. Change of Clothes—Be prepared to take an unexpected swim. Every participant should have access to a dry change of clothes kept in a waterproof covering.
11. Appropriate footwear that will protect your feet from unseen underwater hazards and permit you to walk comfortably on land when launching and taking out and in the event that you must exit the Paddle Florida course.
12. Sunscreen—Sunburn might be the trip’s biggest hazard.
13. Water—Drinking water will be readily available along the Paddle Florida route. Bring sufficient water for the day’s paddle for everyone in your boat.
14. Food—There is little access to food along the Paddle Florida route.  Lunch Stops each day are provided to registered participants.   You may also want to bring along your own snacks.
15. Dry Bag or Ziploc—Bring a waterproof bag to protect items you don’t want to get wet.
16. Gloves—A pair of full- or open-finger gloves. Many have found that gloves help prevent chafing and blisters on a long paddle. Your outdoor store can recommend a suitable pair, or you may find that padded bicycling gloves work well, too.

Paddle Florida “Buddy System”
Paddle Florida will rely on the “Buddy System” to ensure that all participants arrive safely at the day’s take-out point. Before each day’s paddle, identify your “buddy boat or boats.” This will be the boat or group of boats with whom you will paddle for the day. The group is responsible for ensuring that no one is left behind. Do not lose sight of your buddy boat or members of your buddy boat group. A sweep boat will bring up the rear of the day’s paddle to further ensure that no one is left behind.

Other Considerations
What do I do if I capsize? On slow moving water, stay with your boat and swim it to shore or shallow water where you can dump the water and right your vessel. It floats even when full with water and can support you if you become tired. Make sure your belongings are secured to your boat to keep from losing them in the event of capsize. Other boats should be around to assist in recovering any belongings and help you right your boat.

In fast-moving water or rapids, get away and upstream from your canoe until you reach slower moving water. Float on your back, feet downstream. Don't try to stand in fast-moving water. Rocks or other objects can trap your feet and the force of the water can hold you under. Moving canoes filled with water can pin or crush paddlers against rocks or trees.

In the event of inclement weather.  If you are on the river during a storm event, take appropriate cover as described above, wait out the storm and continue your journey when it appears safe. Protective facilities along the river for large groups are not available.  Paddle Florida will make every effort to ensure that each day’s paddle is completed in full. However, if all-day dangerous weather is predicted, Paddle Florida will be cancelled for the day. Boats will be shuttled to the day’s next put-in point and participants will be shuttled to the day’s next campsite. Rain alone does not constitute dangerous weather. All participants are expected to paddle rain or shine, or they may make their own arrangements for moving themselves and their boats to the next put-in and campsite. Exceptions may be made for families paddling with small children.
Swimming…Swimming is permitted with PFDs, but of course, swim at your own risk. There are many excellent sandbars and swimming holes along the entire route of Paddle Florida, but cool temperatures may reduce your desire to do so. Water quality on this journey varies due to point and non-point source pollution. Water quality is generally at its least healthy immediately following rain events—this is especially true downstream of urban areas.

Private Property…As you will see, the your journey takes you through many a neighbor’s backyard. Private property must be respected. It is illegal to trespass onto someone’s property, and it is an offense that is prosecutable by law. You may not enter someone’s property unless you have first received permission. At least one rest stop, with portable toilet facilities and/or restrooms will be available at some point of each day’s paddle, therefore it is imperative that you make use of bathroom facilities when they are available. If nature calls, please use a camp trowel and cover all human waste appropriately or carry a sealable plastic bag to remove your waste with you.

Communication in the Event of Emergency… Volunteers will carry cell phones to communicate on the river. In the event of an emergency, signal or locate a volunteer, who can communicate with land-based emergency personnel. Cell phone coverage will be available in most locations on the river, but cannot be relied upon as a dependable means of on-river communication.

Universal River Signals…Paddle Florida participants are expected to use universal river signals to communicate with other paddlers. They are as follows:

Stop: Potential Danger Ahead—Form a horizontal bar with your paddle and outstretched arms above you’re a head. Those seeing this signal should pass it back to others in the party. Wait for the “all clear signal” before proceeding.

All Clear—Form a vertical bar with your paddle, raising your arm and paddle above your head. The paddle blade should be turned flat for maximum visibility. This means the trip can proceed.

Directions—To signal direction or preferred course through an obstacle, lower the vertical “all clear” to a 45 degree angle toward the side of the river with the preferred route.

Help/Emergency—Wave paddle over your head and give three long blasts on your whistle. Whistles are best carried attached to your life vest. This means other paddlers should assist the signaler as quickly as possible.

I’m OK—Holding your elbow out to the side, repeatedly pat the top of your head with your hand. This signals that you are not hurt and do not need assistance.  

Paddle Florida March 2011 Daily Itinerary

Saturday, March 26
12:30-1:00 p.m. Kick Off Shuttle Loading and Departure – Manatee Springs State Park, Chiefland
2:00-6:00 p.m. Registration Madison Blue Springs State Park, at our booth near the front gate.
2:00-6:00 p.m.    Set Up Camp –Designated camping area
Massage therapist: Eddie Escobar (licensed and nationally certified massage therapist for 20 years, specializing in neuromuscular and sports massage) will provide massage services throughout the week with scheduled appointment options and varied lengths of massage times (payment by cash and check only).
12:30-6:00 p.m.   Boat Drop — Beach area.
4:00pm               Paddle Workshop – Beach area
6:30-7:15 p.m.    Kick-Off Dinner – Designated Camping area
7:15-8:30 p.m.    Welcome, Mandatory Pre-launch Briefing, Paddle Florida overview
Entertainment – TBA

Sunday, March 27
Daybreak             Strike Camp – Madison Blue Springs State Park
7:00-8:30 a.m.     Registration – Madison Blue Springs State Park
7:00-8:00 a.m.     Boat Drop – Beach
6:30-7:30 a.m.     Breakfast – Campground
7:00-9:00 a.m.     Launch – Beach
Mid day                Lunch Stop – Melvin Shoals
Afternoon             Set up Camp – Suwannee River State Park
6:30-7:15 p.m.     Dinner – Suwannee River State Park
7:15-7:30 p.m.     Evening Program – Announcements
Entertainment –  TBA

Monday, March 28
Daybreak             Strike Camp – Suwannee River State Park
6:30-7:30 a.m.     Breakfast – Suwannee River State Park
7:00-9:00 a.m.     Launch – Suwannee River State Park
Mid day                Lunch Stop – Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park
At Advent Christian Village: a grocer, a cafe for a hot meal and a clinic for medical attention if needed.
Afternoon             Set Up Camp – Advent Christian Village, Dowling Park
6:30-7:15 p.m.     Dinner – Advent Christian Village
7:15-9:15 p.m.     Evening Program – TBA

Tuesday, March 29
Daybreak             Strike Camp – Advent Christian Village
6:30-7:30 a.m.     Breakfast – Advent Christian Village
7:00-9:00 a.m.     Launch – Advent Christian Village
Mid day                Lunch Stop –  Lafayette Blue Springs State Park
(Shuttle to day's end campground provided for weary paddlers)
Afternoon             Set up Camp – Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground
6:30-7:15 p.m.     Dinner – Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground
7:15-9:15 p.m.     Entertainment –  TBA

Wednesday, March 30
6:00-9:00 a.m.     Strike Camp – Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground
6:30-7:30 a.m.     Breakfast – Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground
7:00-9:00 a.m.     Launch – Suwanee River Rendezvous Resort & Campground
Mid day                Lunch Stop –  Little River Springs, Suwannee County
Afternoon             Set Up Camp – Ivey Memorial Park, Branford Downtown Close By
6:30-7:15 p.m.     Dinner – Ivey Memorial Park
Evening Program – TBA

Thursday, March 31
6:00-9:00 a.m.     Strike Camp – Ivey Memorial Park
6:30-7:30 a.m.     Breakfast – Ivey Memorial Park
7:00 a.m.              Launch – Ivey Memorial Park
Mid day                Lunch Stop –  Ellie Ray’s River Landing
Afternoon             Set up Camp – Gornto Springs, Dixie County
6:30-7:15 p.m.     Dinner – Gornto Springs
7:15-9:15 p.m.     Entertainment – TBA

Friday, April 1
6:00-8:00 a.m.     StrikeCamp – Gornto Springs, Dixie County
6:30-7:30 a.m.     Breakfast – Gornto Springs
7:00 a.m.            Launch –  Gornto Springs
Mid day               Lunch Stop –  Hart Springs, Gilchrist County
Afternoon             Set Up Camp – Fanning Springs State Park Downtown Close By
6:30-7:15 p.m.     Dinner – Fanning Springs State Park
7:15-7:45 p.m.     Evening Program – Announcements and presentations
7:45 p.m.              Entertainment – TBA