Kayaks

I recently returned from a trip to Vancouver Island. I went there to visit a friend and colleague with NAIM. We have been working at building a kayaking program to serve the people of Kuper Island. The first year, we did open water paddling between Kuper and Valdez Islands. The second year, we explored Valdez Island more to the north and camped over night. With each trip, we learned more of what to do and what not to do. I learned to follow my friend, even though it is the long way, and NOT attempt to walk through a field of stinging nettles. We learned more about tides, wind patterns, and the wild life on Valdez Island.

This year, we camped for two nights at Valdez Is. [N49 02'43.02", W123 38'44.46"] and worked on learning more about the natural foods available all around us. We had a feast our first evening of rice and oysters. Believe it or not, I found a pearl in one oyster! Even more incredible, my friend found three!

We arrived at the time of peak berry harvest. Black berries and thimble berries were every where. The raccoons that were all over the place last year, were now scarce as they had an abundance of berries to eat. We saw a couple of small coastal deer. A young seal swam under my kayak, so I reached out and touched it as it swam past. That was fun.

We scouted more to the north of the island and located another good place to camp, [N49 3'21.59", W123 39'23.29"]. This new place could accommodate a group of 6-8 campers. Nearby we found a nice area that would serve well to practice archery. So, we returned with a lot more information.

Next year, we hope to hold our first camp on Valdez Island. We have done enough homework. We are hoping to borrow a row boat with motor to haul the equipment to the camp location. The motorized boat would also serve well in the case of a medical emergency. Have to start praying about that.