Trip leaders: Jill Lingard, 352-665-1776, jill.lingard@gmail.com and Karen Dealy, 727-282-2750, dealy.k@gmail.com
Description: Meet at Rogers Park at 9AM, launch by 9:30. Paddle upstream and back. If we make it all the way, it’ll be about an 11-mile paddle…but we can turn around whenever folks grow weary of the current. Rogers Park charges a $5 parking fee, payable with credit card (no cash).
The Weeki Wachee is a beautiful, winding, partially canopied spring-fed run. As we paddle upstream, waters will become clearer and submerged eelgrasses more abundant. We’ll see lots of mullets, sheepsheads, needlefish, mangrove snappers, maybe some crevalle jacks and gars, an occasional cooter, and—if we’re lucky—some manatees. Several sandbars along the way make nice rest/snack stops, as long as we keep an eye out for the infamous resident racoon “Bandit.” TBSK member Scott Jantz, a cave diver, will be coming on this trip and is happy to discuss the river shed’s fascinating geology and cave system. Both Scott and Jill can also describe the ongoing Florida Springs Institute research they’re assisting with on this river.
Location: Rogers Park, Weeki Wachee Gardens, FL. Address: 7244 Shoal Line Blvd, Spring Hill, FL 34607
Schedule: Saturday 3/2, 9AM, launch by 9:30
Additional information: Bring lunch/snack, drink, and sunscreen. Dress appropriately for air temperature, water is about 74 degrees year-round.
Difficulty: Level II. The paddle upstream can be against a significant current. Total distance up to 11 miles. See Skills Self Assessment Chart link below for level assignment.
Required: Any kayak with water-tight bulkheads or flotation is ok for this trip, but must be able to maintain pace. No inflatable PFDs. Bring lots of water/sports drink, lunch, sunscreen.
See the Skills Self Assessment Chart on the web site and contact the leader with any questions. Please register (and cancel) on the web site or RSVP to the trip leader to allow notification of any changes.
http://www.tbsk.club/resources/Documents/Skills_Assessment-_Chart_March_2017.pdf