The Central Iowa Paddlers is an informal group of paddlesport enthusiasts. The mission of the club is to share information, promote recreation opportunities and paddlesport safety, and encourage care of our aquatic resources. The group includes both new and experienced paddlers with canoes and kayaks of all kinds.

For the latest event announcements become a member and get your name on our email list!

2012 Canoe & Kayak Classes/ Instruction

CIP is pleased to be offering one canoe and one kayak class this winter. Both classes will be taught by an American Canoe Association instructor at the Central Campus swimming pool in Des Moines at 19th & Grand Ave. Classes are for CIP members only at a cost of $15 per person. Click here For more details or to register.

CIP Newsletter, Outings, Exec Board

Click here for the latest CIP newsletter. See the Calendar page for paddling opportunities and the Links page for CIP Executive Board Minutes and activities.

CIP IS ON FACEBOOK!

The CIP FACEBOOK PAGE is public but you will need to have a Facebook account to post.

Low Head Dam Reference

From the IWC, the Iowa Low Head Dam Reference guide lists most of the dams in the state and provides additional information about many of them. The Iowa DNR offers a map of known low-head dams.

Iowa Paddlers' Library

Thanks to John and a number of donors, CIP and IWC members may access their very own "E-Library" of paddling books and videos.   Donations (and loans) are always accepted.

Throw bags and First Aid

The CIP Board has two 70 foot throw ropes & two first aid kits available for use by members. To borrow a set, contact:
centraliowapaddlers@gmail.com.

Paddle Smart, Be Safe, Have Fun!
  - 10 ways to paddle safely

• Always wear your PFD!
• Don't Drink While Paddling
• Stay Low
• Keep Your Balance
• Practice the Wet Exit
• Don't Get Left in the Cold
• Plan Ahead
• Never Paddle Alone
• Be In Command
• Learn About Your Boat

These and other great tips are available at the American Canoe Association, US Coast Guard and American Whitewater Association websites. If you are new to paddling check out the Special ACA Beginner's Guide.

PaddlingIowa.com

CHECK OUT:   www.paddlingiowa.com
Rivers   -   Lakes   -   Forums

River Stewards

Timeless advice from Robin from the March 1999 CIP Newsletter ...

Paddlers have everything to gain by being stewards of the waterways on which we travel. We like to keep ourselves in good shape. Do your part to keep our waterways in good shape:

• Take trash out with you (yours and others).
• Keep fires small and put them out before you leave.
• Respect fishermen and personal property.
• Select toilet sites at least 100 feet away from the water's edge.
• Same with disposal of wash water.
• Leave wildlife alone.

We paddle for lots of reasons: solitude, beauty, watching wildlife, listening to sounds of nature, exercise, time with family and friends, thrill of accomplishment, and learning new skills. Whatever your reason for being on the water, be a good steward!