Paddling Into Winter: Board Paddle and River Improvements

On Saturday, Nov. 15, our Wolf River Conservancy River Guides had the honor to host a trip down the very picturesque Lost Swamp section of the Wolf River for  WRC Board Members and their guests. The group experienced a beautiful late autumn morning and afternoon in the unhurried environment of the river they had diligently worked to protect and conserve for both themselves and the many generations of people who will benefit from their decisions in the future. It was an honor to have them view the river and the natural results of their collective vision.  

Along with our Board Members and River Guides, a pair of videographers with WKNO accompanied us down the Lost Swamp section. They were collecting film and interviews for use in an upcoming special about the Wolf River Conservancy. The dates of their efforts have not been established just yet but updates will be provided in both our newsletter and on our website. Here is a link to their initial promotional footage for the production:  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQN4zkPIqA0

In the three weeks between the Nov. 15 Board Paddle and our Dec. 6 First Saturday Paddle, an early season cold spell accompanied by winds had stripped most of the vegetation from the trees, so that the paddle on Dec. 6 was an abruptly different experience. Our adventurous group of 9 got a great introduction to winter paddling including an opportunity to warm themselves over a small fire at lunch. They also honored the Mike Dawkins “Cardinal Rule of Winter Paddling” and managed to “keep the boat between themselves and the chilly waters” at all times. This was a great time to be able to report zero swims.  

More great news!!!!! During the second week of December, the Wolf River Conservancy partnered with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) to improve the ramp on Bateman Road. Four loads of limestone rock were delivered to the site and spread out by members of our local TWRA staff. Congrats to them for a job well done.  

Our next event will be the 9th Annual Polar Wolf Plunge on January 1. At noon, we will gather at the river ramp on Bateman Road in preparation of entering the water at 1:00pm. As usual, not everyone will “take the plunge,” but those that do will enjoy the refreshing temperature of our spring-fed river on the first day of the year. Those missing out on the plunge will enjoy a warm fire pit and treats. Come on out and join us!  More details and registration are posted on the Explore/Calendar page of the WRC website.

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