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Canoeing and Kayaking North Dakota Waterways
By James Veach
Canoing and kayaking is North Dakota is as good as it gets. There are many river systems that offer great canoeing and kayaking journeys. Also the many lakes in the state offer more opportunities for the canoeing enthusiasts.
The broad plains, river bluffs and forested areas offer some of the finest canoeing and kayaking scenery imagined. See things from the river in a different way than seen from the river banks.
The most popular canoeing adventures along river systems are as follows; Knife River, Little Missouri River, Sheyenne River, Pembina River, Red River of the North, Mouse River (Souris), and the mighty Missouri River.
A few safety steps, if executed properly can assure a safe and fun journey along the rivers. Below is a list of safety precautions that should be used during every journey on the river.
Safety Tips
1.~~~ Always check with the gaging station for a reliable real-time stream flow. The river systems can change rapidly due to rainfall or snow melt. Also summer thunderstorms can cause flash flooding without any notice what so ever.
2.~~~ Always a personal flotation device. This is one of the most important safety precautions that can really save your life.
3.~~~ If possible avoid standing in canoes and kayaks. When stood in, they become very unstable and tip over easily.
4.~~~ Make sure all weight in canoe or kayak centered and distributed evenly throughout canoe or kayak.
5.~~~ If you are not an experienced canoeist, make sure to steer clear of rushing water-rapids. This can be very tricky and dangerous for the inexperienced.
6.~~~ Always bring along an extra paddle. It is not uncommon at all to loose paddles along a journey. You'll be glad you brought an extra.
7.~~~ Always carry a medical kit in case of emergencies.
8.~~~ If by chance you capsize your canoe or kayak, stay with your watercraft, this may mean the difference between life and death.
9.~~~ This last precaution is what I believe to be one of the most important of all. Before going out on any waterway, let someone know of your plans. Let them know exactly what course you may be taking and the time you expect to return from your adventure.
If the above advice is taken there is no reason why you can't go out on the waterways and have a adventure that will be the best possible. So get out there and enjoy everything Mother Nature offers here in our great state of North Dakota. Just have FUN and Discover North Dakota.
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