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Paddling the Mississippi near Vicksburg - April 26, 27, or 28, 2006

Conference-goers will have three opportunities to paddle on the Mississippi River with Quapaw Canoe Company:

1) Sunset Paddle April 26 or 27th:

Wednesday or Thursday evening, 6-9pm. Leave from the Yazoo River landing at the foot of Clay Street in downtown Vicksburg (Behind the Flood Wall next to Horizon Casino) at 6:00pm. Float down the legendary Yazoo River to the mouth of the Mississippi (1 mile). Paddle upstream a short distance using river eddies for propulsion. Stop on one of the beautiful river sandbars for sunset (8:17pm) and refreshments (wine, beer, & non-alcoholic beverages provided). Return to the Clay Street Landing around 9pm. Bring your field glasses for great bird-watching. Rain or shine. 4 miles round trip.

$30/person includes refreshments.

2) Grand Gulf Float, April 28th:

All-day excursion Friday, April 28th (National Arbor Day). Leave from the landing at the foot of Clay Street in downtown Vicksburg at 8:30am, return to same landing at 9pm. You can safely park your car at this landing or we will shuttle you back to your hotel.

This all-day eco-adventure will provide great wildlife viewing, especially songbirds and waterfowl, so bring your binoculars and birding field guides. A good day to bring your tree guide, in honor of National Arbor Day. Also, great tracking during our island stop. We will have unparalleled views of the Vicksburg Bluffs, the Bluffs at LeTorneau, Grand Gulf Bluff and the islands and back channels along the way including Sargent Point, Togo Island, Yucatan Bend, and the mysterious mouth of the Big Black River. 33 miles total downstream. The river will do most of the work, but be prepared to paddle when necessary. We will teach you to paddle if you’ve never done it before. Take out below Grand Gulf at the Claiborne County Harbor around 8pm, shuttle provided.

$100/person includes shuttle back to Vicksburg, lunch, supper and refreshments.

All Excursions will be done in a 26 foot Cypress Strip “Voyageur Style” canoe. No previous paddling experience necessary. All river equipment will be provided including high quality life jackets & paddles. Be prepared for sun and/or rain. Bring a wide brim hat & sun screen, as well as insect repellent. Wear shoes & clothes you don’t mind getting wet. Bring an extra set of long-sleeve clothing and a towel. Swimming is possible during the lunch break. All Quapaw Canoe Company excursions are outfitted with 1st aid kits, emergency gear and VHF Marine radios.

Call John Ruskey cell phone 662-902-7841 for more information and reservations
or check out http://www.island63.com.

Photos by Joe Royer