Trip leader: Jill Lingard, jill.lingard@gmail.com, 352-665-1776
Description: Join SpringsWatch volunteer Jill Lingard on a citizen science paddling trip down the Weeki Wachee River. From the launch at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park to the take-out at Rogers County Park 6.5 miles downstream, the group will stop at 15 stations to take measurements of water temperature, dissolved oxygen, specific conductance, light attenuation, and submerged aquatic vegetation. Paddlers who enjoy getting wet (and know a little bit about fish) can also participate in an optional fish count from station 2 to 3. Jill will provide on-the-job training on the various meters used for water monitoring.
The Weeki Wachee is a beautifully clear, meandering, spring-fed stream, offering paddlers opportunities to see manatees, a colorful diversity of fish, underwater eelgrasses, and lots of water birds like ibis, ducks, anhingas, and herons.
Trip Capacity: 5 paddlers.
Location: Launch from Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, located at 6131 Commercial Way in Spring Hill. Meet at the picnic tables in front of the paddling concessionaire. We will unload boats and gear and arrange our own shuttle.
Schedule: Meet at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, January 11. We usually finish up around 2 p.m. at Rogers Park.
Additional information: Access a map of the river here. Participants should bring lunch, snacks, and plenty of water to drink. NOTE: Do NOT bring any disposable bottles, food containers, or wrappers. State park staff members check bags and will require you to remove these items.
Difficulty: This is a Level 1 trip. The paddling is easy, sheltered, and all downstream. Time-wise though, it will be a longer-than-usual 6.5-mile paddle due to the need to stop at 15 stations to take water measurements.
Required gear: Any kayak, canoe, or paddleboard will do. Wear a PFD. Bring snorkel/mask/fins plus a line to tow your boat if you plan to participate in the fish count.
Refer to TBSK’s Skills Self Assessment Chart and contact the leader with any questions. Please register (or cancel) on the website or RSVP to the trip leader to allow notification of any changes.