Kayak Days In Seldovia
by Laurel Hilts
The Seldovia Harbor, Slough and Lagoon have been filled with the bright beautiful colors of kayaks, and the sounds of splashes and laughter this week. It’s an annual kayak safety class. Alisha (Al) Sughroue is working her magic with Seldovia’s kids once again, sharing her love for the out-of-doors, while teaching important safety skills. She’s brought along her friends Chunk, Brian and Ranger Joe to teach students of all ages.
The classes started Wednesday, with a perfect sunshiny day for the kayakers to enjoy. They spent the afternoon heading out from Seldovia, practicing safe paddling skills, before landing on a beach for more training. Then they headed up the Seldovia Slough toward the Lagoon to gain more experience. Throughout the day, students also learned equipment care, preparation, paddling environment, safety and rescue.
The plan for Thursday is to continue the previous day’s lessons, add specific maneuvers, practice self-rescue, towing, and establish priorities in the water. The group will paddle with the tide from the Lagoon down the Slough and around to Sandy Beach.
On Friday, the whole group will have an opportunity to tour Seldovia Bay, practicing all their newly-learned skills. At the end of the training, participants will be able to get certification for Level 1 and Level 2 kayaking with the American Canoe Association. “Ranger Joe” is actually Joe McCullough, who includes being an ACA Certified Instructor on his vast resume’.
The kayak classes are provided free-of-charge by the Seldovia Village Tribe Prevention Program, promoting healthy activities, education and cultural enrichment in an alcohol and drug-free setting. Visit SVT Community Services on Facebook to see albums of the kayaking days, plus much more. Thanks to the many folks who donated use of their kayaks, and for those who helped make this event possible.
Seldovia Time
