On December 1st, 2013, John Kumiski and Rodney Smith will start paddling an Old Town canoe from New Smyrna Beach to Jupiter, Florida with one purpose in mind. They want to bring public and governmental awareness to the great importance of the Indian River Lagoon’s natural resources.
The event is the 2013 Indian River Lagoon Paddle Adventure and it will navigate the entire 160-plus miles of the Indian River Lagoon (IRL).
“Unfortunately,” says Rodney Smith, “during the past few years it has become more and more obvious that this unique Indian River Lagoon system is in decline because of human practices; the use of fertilizers, insecticides, and herbicides negatively influences its water quality. “ He points out that the real problem lies in the fact that the majority of people causing the Indian River Lagoon's decline aren't aware of their own negative influence on this wondrous and positive place. “They don't realize they're responsible for the slow death of one the world's greatest creations.”
Participants will paddle, fish, camp, sightsee, and generally enjoy the journey. Paddling folks in canoes, kayaks or paddleboards are invited to join in and travel along with Rodney and John for all or any part of the expedition. Each participating paddler is responsible for their own gear and necessities.
Money will be raised for an educational trust fund to be used to support students and interns studying or working on the ecology of the Indian River Lagoon system.
Each participating paddler will find businesses or individuals to sponsor their leg of the journey by donating a certain amount of money per mile completed. Organizers say no donation is too big or too small. The trust fund will be administered by a partner in the event, the Marine Resources Council.
To learn more about the 2013 Indian River Lagoon Paddle Adventure, visit the website, or follow them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/IRLPaddleAdventure.
Rodney Smith can be reached at (321) 750-3374 or via email at irlcoast@gmail.com.
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