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Who We Are:
Central Iowa Paddlers is an informal group of paddlesport enthusiasts formed in 1997.
What We Do:
The mission of the club is to share paddling information, promote paddling opportunities and paddlesport safety, and encourage care of our aquatic
resources for both new and experienced paddlers.
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CIP is now on Facebook
Share your trip reports, event details, pictures, videos with other members of CIP!
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Join the CIP Yahoo Group!
Benefits of a Yahoo Group:
- facilitates member to member communication
- Timely Information about cancellations and short notice trip opportunities
- offers group discussion among members
- eases the burden of one person having to communicate all group messages.
- You get to choose how you receive CIP's emails
Click here to learn how to join CIP's Yahoo! Group: paddleiowa
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Greetings!
Although the leaves have changed and the evening temps are hovering just above freezing, plenty of paddlers are finding time to get out and do some paddling on these crisp, colorful days prior to winter. While you're out there, don't forget that the water temperature can remain dangerously low despite the warmer air temperature. The American Canoe Association recommends a wetsuit when the water temperature is below 60 degrees. While our newsletter will most likely be a bit skimpy during the winter months, we plan to continue to offer articles of interest and alert you to upcoming events. As always, please feel free to contact us: | Membership dues & emails for CIP List: | Newsletter, Information, Questions: |
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Steve Parrishsbparrish@q.com2834 Druid Hill DrDes Moines, IA 50315515-284-6910
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Send Dues, email announcements, pictures
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Send articles, trip reports
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Be Prepared - Cold Water Can Kill!
by American Canoe Association  Cold Water is extremely dangerous. It quickly robs the body of its strength, diminishes coordination and impairs judgment. Immersion in water as warm as 50 to 60 degrees can initiate what has been called "Cold Water Shock."
When a paddler capsizes and is suddenly immersed in cold water, the body's first reflexive action is to gasp for air, followed by increased heart rate, blood pressure and disorientation. The immersion can even lead to cardiac arrest. Without proper equipment and apparel, the body can become incapacitated in just a few minutes. Without a lifejacket, this is a very dangerous and often fatal combination. When paddling where the water temperature is 60 degrees Fahrenheit or colder, a wetsuit is a must and a drysuit is highly recommended. Cold water or cold weather can also lead to dangerous hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when exposure to the elements prohibits the body from reheating and maintaining its core temperature. Typical symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, impaired judgment, clumsiness, loss of dexterity and slurred speech.
Planning and Prevention are the best methods to avoid potentially life-threatening situations: Plan your trip and "think smart" - Know the water temperature and weather forcast before you set out. Fuel Your Body - Keep your body well fueled with high carbohydrate foods and lots of water. Insulate Your Body - Simply said, you should dress for immersion in cold water. - Avoid wearing cotton clothing when paddling in cool temperatures.
- Dress in layers using synthetic fabrics such as polyester fleece to prevent getting overheated or chilled from perspiration.
- Carry a waterproof jacket designed for splash and/or rain protection.
- Anytime the water temperature is less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit, wear specialized insulating clothing (wetsuit or drysuit) capable of protecting you while in the water.
- Keep in mind that the warmth and comfort range of a dry suit can be flexible based on the clothing worn underneath it.
- Wear a warm hat that will stay on your head in the water. A fleece-lined skullcap is ideal.
- Have spare, dry clothing and store in a sealed dry bag while on the water.
Watch Out for Your Group - Know your emotional and physical limitations. Group members need to constantly assess the behavior of others in their group. Look for changes in behavior, withdrawal, sluggishness, talking less or a member not eating enough. These are all symptoms of fatigue and may suggest a problem that the group needs to address.
Additonal resources:
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Gateway Water Trail Dedicated on Maquoketa River by John Wenck
 | | Cutting the Ribbon at Pictured Rocks Access. |
On October 9th, Larry Gullet, director of Jones County Conservation, and the Iowa DNR hosted a huge water trail dedication ceremony for the newly constructed Maquoketa River Water Trail that runs from Mon-Maq Dam to Pictured Rocks--approximately 7.8 miles. This is the first water trail designated using criteria from the newly created statewide water trails plan. This trail is defined as a "gateway" water trail. Nate Hoogeveen, DNR river programs director, was quoted in The Gazette, stating, "In terms of thoughtful design and construction, this is a water trail like no other to date." The $1 million cost, he said, is easily justified by the river's high quality natural and cultural resources and the high usage rate.
It was hard to estimate, but my guess was that nearly 60 people turned out for at least part of the event, which included ribbon cutting ceremonies, and a float. Representatives from the Iowa DNR, National Park Services, and local city and county governments were on hand. State Representative Ray Zirkelbach was in attendance and offered a few words about conserving our natural resources for future generations. Zirkelbach was instrumental in getting funding for the project.
 | | Pictured Rocks Access |
The project contained improvements at the launch near Monticello and the landing at Pictured Rocks. The Gazette noted, "Hundreds of multi-ton blocks of Jones County limestone were incorporated into a boat ramp, retaining walls, a staging area and a patio at Pictured Rocks." Near the launch below Mon Maq Dam, a huge elevated steel deck extends beyond the river bank and contains kiosks that interpret the history of the area, including how the old mill, which once stood in the very same spot, evolved from grinding flour to generating electricity. A portage trail also directs paddlers around the dam t here.
Larry took nearly 15 minutes just to thank all the individuals involved. One couldn't help but realize that a project of this magnitute had to include several different revenue streams, as well as the cooperation of multiple agencies, groups, and talented individuals. As Gregg Stark, co-founder of Sticks-in-the-Water paddling group, said, "it takes a village".
The "gateway" trail is one of four water trail types defined by the Iowa DNR. A gateway trail offers users a predictable experience in a readily enjoyable setting where beginners will feel comfortable. It often includes a "paired launch and landing with ramped, hard surface or well-maintained compacted aggregate slopes." Your likely to see greater development or impact in the gateway type trails.
Larry Gullet was quoted in The Gazette as saying, "We conservatively estimate that paddlers on this stretch of the river contribute $2 million a year to the local economy." It was noted that it's not unlikely for this stretch of river to see 1,000 users in one summer.
For those of us who frequently paddle, and are adept at scaling down steep banks near bridges in remote areas of the countryside where accesses are a rare occurance, the gateway trail may not be appealing. But for beginners and mobility impaired individuals this trail type is well suited. When you combine ease of access, few challenges and great scenery, it also becomes a place to introduce newcomers to the sport. And, we all would hope that greater exposure to Iowa's rivers translates to greater stewardship and advocacy. Click here to learn more about the Iowa DNR Water Trails program.
 | | Steel Deck near Mon Maq Dam Access at Old Mill Site |
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Dodging the High Water
by Ned McPartland
 In July, we had a trip scheduled for a Saturday on the Middle Raccoon River, but heavy rains upstream were causing a rapid rise in the river level. Consequently, the trip was moved to Sunday in hope that the river level would decline, and an alternate destination on the South Raccoon was considered. On Saturday, the Middle Raccoon reached a peak of 2300 cfs on the Panora gauge.
We decided to meet at the scheduled put-in at the P-28 bridge south of Panora to check the river and decide if we needed to move to the alternate stream. Before leaving the house, I noticed that the river had dropped quickly to 726 cfs. At the put-in, we were surprised to see that the river was in excellent shape. We had expected to find a muddy, turbulent stream and instead found a river that was as clear and clean-looking as I had ever seen it. We were not sure why the river was so clear, but speculated that the water we were seeing was coming over or through the upstream dam from a relatively clear part of Lake Panorama.
Given the warm, sunny day and beautiful water, we decided to float the Middle Raccoon down to the Amarillo Ave. landing. Our small group of seven included Bill Bryant, Doug Hesseltine and his wife, Julie Logan, Mark Metelman, Teresa Topf, and myself. We had an easy trip. If you had wanted to hit some rocks, you had to work at it as most rocks were covered and floated over easily. There was some fast water which added to the excitement of the float. We had lunch on a large sandbar, and stopped briefly at one other sandbar near the end of the trip.
Although we were paddling on a popular stretch of the river, we encountered only one other group, probably because of the relatively high water. Later in the day after returning home, I checked the gauge reading that had dropped to 628 cfs. which proved to be a very nice level.
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Thompson's Bend: A Peek into the Past
by John Wenck
 I experienced an epiphany the first time I paddled the Des Moines River, which is less than 2 miles from my home in northwest Des Moines. After seven months of cajoling, my friend was about to give up on getting me out on the Des Moines River in a kayak. Finally, to get him to stop nagging, I agreed to paddle early one October morning in 2004. Although I could barely keep the kayak going straight, I felt a freedom that I still find difficult to describe. I was seeing familiar places from a different vantage point, and though the places were familiar, everything seemed incredibly different. I was all at once sitting on top of the water, and time seemed to stand still. We passed under the Euclid Ave bridge where cars were zooming east and west. I really felt like I was on the edge of two worlds. We looked up and a huge adult bald eagle was perched in the tallest cottonwood tree just north of the bridge. I had never seen a bald eagle in the wild, and I never expected to see my first one in the
 | | 50 Year Jubilee Celebration, Union Park |
city of Des Moines. That day changed my life. Prior to this experience, rivers were always things I crossed to get from point A to point B. Today, rivers are a huge part of my life. When I paddle down an Iowa stream I feel like I'm really seeing Iowa for the first time. Rivers have fostered a greater appreciation for my home state, and I've never felt more proud to be an Iowan.  | 1911 Postcard of Thompson's Bend
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Speaking of home, the Des Moines River is my home river because it's the closest river to my house, and it ultimately ends up being the river I paddle most. Paddling has allowed me to see birds I never noticed before, and learn about the trees that grow near the rivers, and the wildflowers. Rivers slow me down to the point I can't help but notice these things. But as I wind around this bend and under that bridge I start wondering things, such as, when was that bridge built or how long have those houses or that farm been there. I've found that postcards are a wonderful resource in learning about the history of the area. Not long ago I came across a postcard that was titled "Thompson's Bend, Des Moines". I noticed it had been postmarked 1911 in Des Moines . I'd never heard of Thompson's Bend before, but I suddenly wanted to know more. I went to my local library and then the State Historical Library and discovered tons of information.  | | Thompson's Bend Today |
The area on the east bank of the Des Moines River roughly from Center Street Dam upstream to the 6th Avenue Bridge in Des Moines was called Thompson's Bend because an early settler named Andrew McFarland Thompson staked claim to that area (1400 acres) in the 1840s. Over time, the Thompson family sold parcels of land to others, including the final 14 acres to the city of Des Moines to create Union Park in 1896. Thompson family members are reported to be buried somewhere in unmarked graves on the grounds of Union Park. Known always as Thompson's Bend until the 1940s/50s, the area was a favorite for early canoeists, rowers, power boaters, and even excursion steamers. There were even bath houses along Thompson's Bend. Many photos and articles about this lively spot on the Des Moines River known as Thompson's Bend can be found at the State Historical Society Library in Des Moines on the 2nd floor of the museum building. This is the best resource to learn about the history of any river--be sure to check out the county histories they have. One event of great significance that happened at Thompson's Bend was the 1896 celebration of Des Moines and Polk County's 50th anniversary, also known as Jubilee Day. Nearly 20,000 people turned out for the event that included a boat parade with 40 row boats, a dozen canoes, and seven excursion steamers, which all moved in formation upstream from Center Street Dam to the newly dedicated Union Park.
 | | Steamers at Union Park, 1896 Jubilee Celebration |
It's amazing how much has gone on before us. Rediscovering the river I call my home river has been fascinating. When I learn more about the places I paddle, I develop a greater understanding and appreciation for those places, and with that comes a desire to not only protect them, but to share them with others. You won't see signs that say "Thompson's Bend" anymore, and you're likely to get funny looks if you start talking about Thompson's Bend to residents who currently live there, but at one point in time, it thrived with humanity and the river there was appreciated by hundreds of residents.
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Winter Event Schedule
 November 20th (Sat)
Turkey Float on North Raccoon River
Contact Mike Delaney
December 4th (Sat)Skunk River Paddlers Waffle Float Skunk River or Big Creek Breakfast at Iowa Arboretum Contact Rick Dietz
January 1st (Sat)
CIP Annual New Year's Day Paddle
Des Moines River Contact Steve Parrish
February 11th to 13th (Fri-Sun) CanoeSport Outfitters Annual Exposition 203 W Salem Ave Indianola, Iowa
Contact Casey Holmes Participants in paddling events should contact the trip coordinator ahead of time for trip details and in case conditions or plans change. Bring rain gear, extra clothes in a dry bag, plenty of water and snacks, hat, sunscreen, PFD, extra paddle, and anything else you may need to be comfortable in unexpected weather conditions. |
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How Do You Sign-up for CIP's Yahoo! Group?
We're so happy you want to know. It doesn't cost anything, and it's actually fairly easy to do. Once you've done it, you'll be amazed at how easy it is to communicate with fellow members and stay informed between monthly updates.
Most of you have been receiving messages from Lynn Aldridge, our membership guru and fellow board member. For years, Lynn has done an outstanding job posting messages, which sometimes requires her to be the intermediary between the sender and individual members who have questions. It's quite a burden, but she's never complained. While we are in this transition process she will continue to send out messages as she has always done, but the board has decided to gradually transition to communicating through the newly created yahoo group: paddleiowa.
We have created instructional PDF files to help you create a Yahoo! ID and join the CIP Yahoo! Group called Paddleiowa. You must have a Yahoo! ID before you can join any groups.
- How to create a Yahoo! ID
- How to Join the Paddleiowa Yahoo! Group
If you have any questions, or experience problems, contact us!
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Ongoing Paddling Activities
Tuesdays at Blue Heron Lake (Raccoon River Park) in West Des Moines, 5:00PM:
Todd Roberston, outreach coordinator for the Iowa DNR River Programs, continues to meet with other paddlers in his off time every Tuesday at Blue Heron Lake. Recently, due to earlier sunsets the meet time has changed from 6PM to 5PM. Todd notes, "Understanding that a few paddlers may not get off work until 5pm, please expect late arrivals on occasion. Enjoy 2010's last warm days at Blue Heron! If you arrive and see nobody, please paddle around this beauitiful lake!"
This is an informal gathering of paddlers where all are welcome regardless of skill level to come share and practice skills and talk about paddling. They meet at the parking lot boat ramp located right across from the main entrance, right off Grand Ave.MAPContact Todd Robertson for more details.
Moonlight Paddles at Lake Red Rock: Every month, Normally the Saturday closest to the full moon, a group gets together for an evening paddle on Lake Red Rock in Marion County. For more information, contact Diane Lowry or John Craun.
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Thanks for taking the time to peruse CIP's monthly update. If you have questions, concerns or feedback, please contact your editors:
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Sincerely,
Central Iowa Paddlers Board of Directors
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