MAINE

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MAINE 〰️

Mission

Diversify Whitewater (DW) is to promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in paddlesports by removing the barriers that may exist for Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), Queer, and Allies in kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and stand up paddling by holding free community paddling events.

2024 EVENTS

  • This event can take place on a river section that includes class I-III rapids. Participants will ride in rafts or other crafts (e.g., canoes, inflatable kayaks, packrafts) guided by experienced volunteer paddlers and safety boaters. This event allows participants to safely experience the thrill of whitewater, some for the very first time.

  • This event takes place on the ocean and we procure to select a time where the waves are not bigger than 3 ft. Participants will ride on 9ft or 10 ft surfboards guided by experienced volunteer surfers. This event allows participants to safely experience the thrill of surfing, some for the very first time.

  • This event takes place on calm water or easy rapids (class I, II-). The goal of this type of event is to have participants learn boat maneuvering skills and develop independence on the water. Boats can include kayaks (whitewater, flatwater touring, inflatable), canoes, rafts/pack rafts, and/or paddleboards. Instruction should begin on calm water, with lessons taught by experienced instructors. Lessons may be rotating to enable participants to try multiple types of boats. If moving water options are available for progression, self-rescue skills must first be demonstrated. This event teaches participants the skills to paddle and navigate their own boats and learn skills that will allow them to paddle on local lakes & rivers on their own. It also gives them a chance to try out a variety of boat types to see which they like the best.

Events Expectations

All Diversify Whitewater events are free for all participants. This means we cover all costs, including:

  • Event insurance

  • Park entry fees

  • Gear and equipment use

  • Instruction

  • Food

We welcome all people who identify as Black, Indigenous, a Person of Color, or an ally at our events!

ORGANIZERS
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FAQs

Surfing

River Float and Paddling Skills

  • A 1.5 hour lesson consisted of 30-45 min of land instruction and the remainder of time in the water. We utilize a ratio of 4 participants to 1 instructor to ensure physical safety and adequate instruction. In this class you will learn surf etiquette, board management, wave anatomy, mechanics of a pop up and general safety tips!

  • No experience necessary. These are introductory lessons where you will be able to learn from scratch the basics or keep improving your basic skills.

  • Fundamental swimming skills are necessary to join the surfing portion. If you want to join and are a nervous swimmer, please let us know and we will accommodate with more instruction.

  • Our lessons include all the gear you need: full with wetsuit, surfboard, leash and instruction.

  • Come dressed in a bathing suit, bring a towel, water, change of clothes, a snack and STOKE.

  • Enjoy this lesson in any way that feels best to you! The point of these surf clinics is to equip you with the knowledge to go into the water safely and to have fun while doing so!

  • Fill out our Waiver and Media Release.

  • You can expect instruction from river professionals and expert paddlers and time to practice paddling skills in a beginner-friendly environment. 

  • All participants should be able to swim while wearing a PFD (personal flotation devices, or life jacket). Get in touch with us if you have any questions about your swimming ability.

  • All experience levels are welcome, from absolute beginners to advanced paddlers. If you are a more experienced paddler and would like to volunteer, please get in touch with us!

  • You should plan on being wet! Swimsuits and nylon shorts generally work best; avoid cotton. For layering, stick to synthetic fabrics that insulate when wet, like fleece and polypropylene. Wool also works well. You must wear secure, close-toed footwear such as tennis shoes that can get wet, close-toed river sandals with an ankle strap, or booties. 

  • * Snacks and water

    * Layers of clothing (synthetic pants, synthetic long-sleeved shirt, wool or fleece sweater, rain jacket)

    * Towel and change of clothes 

    * Medications you may need (e.g. epipen, inhaler)

    * Sunglasses with a strap

  • We recommend leaving all valuables, such as jewelry, cell phones, and other electronics, in your car. 

  • We will send out a carpool spreadsheet for participants to connect about rides.

  • You do not! If you have your own boat, paddle, and/or PFD and helmet, you are welcome to bring them, but we have paddling equipment available for all participants.