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Apr 16, 2022: Webb River (+.25 ft)

Disregarding the rainy weather forecast five Chowderheads (Gary and Suzanne Cole, Kenny DeCoster, Randy Berube and TC) showed up for a fine day of paddling on the Webb.  No rain.  Though the level was lower than the previous week, there was plenty of water in the steepest rapids and numerous surf waves to keep everyone busy.  The slightly lower level did result in some hidden rocks that were difficult to detect and provided some surprise hits but there were no swims or ice water rolls.  A piece of wood just before the first bridge, that had caused a swim last week, was slightly exposed and didn’t cause us any trouble.  Farther down the river, there is a large pine tree lying completely across the river.  We were able to paddle over it, but at lower levels it will require a portage and higher levels might result in a sticky hydraulic.  It is very visible on the right shore and not in the middle of a serious rapid.

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Apr 10, 2022: Webb River

As usual, the first Webb trip of the year was great fun.  We had .2 on the Berry Mills gauge, which is an excellent early spring level.  There was lots of surfing and a little carnage.  We rescued the boat of a most appreciative solo canoeist right next to the gauge.  Alas, we couldn’t convince him to join the club.  Overall, a most excellent day of paddling.

Participants:  Randy Berube, Ken Gordon, Mark Berry, Andrew Carey, Brent Elwell & TC

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Apr 5, 2022: Contoocook River

For many years, the Contoocook River in Henniker, NH has been a spring club favorite.  The Class II/III 2.5 mile run includes the exciting Freight Train Rapid which is a little more difficult.  Five seniors not acting their ages met to challenge their skills on an early spring trip at an excellent level, 6.5 on the gauge.  No ice cream headaches on this day.  Everyone was on their game.  Most of us enjoyed a second helping.  Sorry, no photo.  I somehow managed to lose them.

Participants:  Steve Fortin, Carolyn Young, Frank Yulling, Jean Miller & TC

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Mar 23, 2022: Togus Stream

Trip Report:  Togus Stream 3/23/22

Catching tiny Togus Stream with the right amount of water is not easy, but about 950 on the Sheepscot gauge was a Goldilocks’ level.  Three kayakers and two canoeists turned out for the usual wide assortment of river adventures.  Descending through large culverts, ducking under bridges and low hanging branches, navigating numerous rapids, and portaging around strainers were just some of the many exploits experienced.  I provided unintended entertainment hand paddling a rapid after accidentally dropping my kayak paddle while attempting to take photos in a tiny eddy.  It was another great day on a fun river.

Participants:  Morgan Baxter, Adam Chase, Ken Gordon, Eggman DeCoster & TC

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Mar 20, 2022: Skip Pendleton Memorial St. George River Trip

We had an excellent turnout for the 5th Skip Pendleton Memorial trip on the St. George River.  Twenty- three paddlers in 17 boats challenged the high water on a sunny day March day.  There were thrills, spills, and rescues.  Karen Franceour accomplished the most unique rescue assisting a struggling deer out of the water by nudging it with her kayak past a steep embankment to a safe exit.  Despite the cold water, there was some wave surfing at the bottom of Magog Chute.  Overall, it was a great way to begin the 2022 paddling season.

Participants:  Ryan Galway, Mason Galway, Chris Gailey, Medea Steinman, Dwayne Shaw, Andrew Carey, Cath Kimball, Ex-president DeCoster, Susan Bloomfield, Ken Gordon, Scott Nelson, Lynn Hempen, Dave Boyle, Bruce Weik, Chris Knight, Aili Hartikka, Will Spaulding, Randy Berube, Morgan Baxter, Karen Franceour, Leslie Gregor, David St. Laurent & TC