TBSK WEEKENDER TRIP: Summer of Springs 3 - Crystal River
Trip leaders:
Description: Interested in deepening your understanding of Florida springs? Join SpringsWatch volunteers Jill Lingard and Scott Jantz on a citizen science paddling trip that will encompass seven springs around Kings Bay in Crystal River, including the crown jewels of Three Sisters Springs. Our paddle will be a slower-than-you're-probably-used-to 5 miles as we stop at stations to take measurements of water temperature, dissolved oxygen, specific conductance, light attenuation, water clarity, and submerged vegetation. Paddlers who enjoy snorkeling can also participate in an optional fish count at two springs. We'll also keep tabs on birds, turtles, manatees, and other wildlife. Jill and Scott will provide on-the-job training on the various meters used for water quality monitoring.
Location: Port Hotel & Marina, located at 1610 SE Paradise Circle in Crystal River. We will launch and return to this spot.
Schedule: Sunday, August 2. Meet at 8:00AM for an 8:30 launch. We usually finish up around 1-2PM.
Difficulty: Level 1+ based on mileage and a possible chop on the bay if winds build. The springs are mostly located along protected canals, but we paddle in the more open bay to reach them. See TBSK's Skills Self Assessment Chart and contact the trip leaders if you have any questions.
Required gear: Kayaks of at least 14' in length with deck lines and bulkheads or bow/stern flotation. Sit-on-top kayaks are actually very useful for this activity as you may be carrying extra SpringsWatch equipment. PFDs must be worn. Bring snorkel/mask/fins plus a line to tow your boat if you plan to participate in the fish count.
Additional information: This trip is the second day of a three-day "Summer of Springs" exploration. You can sign up for one, two, or all three days. If you plan to make a weekend out of it, we urge you to find lodging in the area to avoid driving back and forth from the Tampa Bay area. The towns of Ocala, Silver Springs, Dunnellon, and Crystal River have lots of hotels and are in the region that we'll be paddling each day. Scott & Jill will be staying in a rental house on the Rainbow River on Friday and Saturday nights. They have room in their rental house for 6-7 additional people. Contact Jill or Scott if you'd like to stay with them and share rental costs.
Gear Requirements/Recommendations:
- Kayaks at least 14 feet long with deck lines and bulkheads or bow/stern flotation.
- Mask, snorkel, fins, and a line to tow your kayak with if you plan to participate in a fish count.
- Paddlers must wear a PFD.
- Pack a lunch and bring plenty to drink.
If you have any medical issues that might impact your paddling, please notify the trip leaders before the trip so that they can be best equipped to assist you as needed.
If your plans to participate change, please cancel on the website or app so that people on the waitlist can join us.