FT 3
Canoe Trip: Natural and Cultural History of the Potomac River

Saturday, August 8, 2015: 8:00 AM-7:00 PM
Charles St. Entrance, Baltimore Convention Center
Organizer:
Chris Lea, ESA Panel on Vegetation Classification
The Potomac is often called "the Nation's River" for its proximity to the Capital and its prominence in early U.S. history. It is also unique among Atlantic seaboard rivers in being a major river that is relatively unencumbered by major dams. This nine mile canoe trip will explore a gentle and scenic reach of the Potomac as it emerges from the Blue Ridge Mountains into the Piedmont Triassic Basins, a section with many wooded islands, which is protected, in large part, by the National Park Service and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. We will examine and learn about riparian vegetation, animal life, and fluvial geomorphology. The cultural history of this river section is represented by American Indian camps and fish weirs, the stone aqueducts of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, and sites of river crossings by armies of Civil War campaigns.

Registration Fee: $125

Equipment and Attire: Prior canoeing experience is not required (flatwater to mild riffles will be encountered), but participants should be comfortable around water (be able to swim) and be in reasonable physical condition. River attire is bathing suits under shorts and a T-shirt, but sun protection (long-sleeved shirts, a hat, and sunscreen) should be brought, as most of the trip will be in full sun) . Wear sturdy footwear that can get wet (e.g., old sneakers, sturdy sandals, preferably with closed sides, or neoprene booties) A warm, quick-drying pull-over and a pack to store extra clothes and gear is recommended. For gear that should not get wet, such as mobile phones and cameras, a dry bag, Tupperware, or multiple plastic bags is highly recommended. Participants should bring a change of dry clothes that can be left on the bus for the return trip. Life vests will be provided by outfitter.

Itinerary: 8:00 AM - Leave Convention Center for Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Lander, MD 9:15 AM Arrive, Lander boat ramp. Meet outfitter. Review safety items. 10:00 AM Launch canoes on Potomac River from Lander boat ramp. 12:15 PM Lunch near Calico Rocks. 3:15 PM Arrive Mouth of Monocacy boat ramp, Dickerson, MD. Meet bus driver and outfitter shuttle (for canoes) 3:45 PM Leave Mouth of Monocacy 5:00 PM Arrive Baltimore Convention Center

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