Sea kayakers have no Clout! Bull! That's changing! Okay, we're not on a par with the jet ski companies or the motor boat industry, but look at the unbelievable results groups like the Hudson River Watertrail and the Maine Trail Association have brought about!
I started 'A Salty Dog' to continue my original work that I started when I founded M.A.S.K. (the Metropolitan Association of Sea Kayakers) about 6 years back, which was - to further the sport of Sea Kayaking. Now thanks to the knocking down of communication borders and the international growth of the Internet, fellow paddlers from around the world can share their experiences.
'A Salty Dog' will continue to support the growth of the sport as well as organizations as the Watertrail and conservation groups that are dedicated to protecting our natural resources. These associations are paving the way for opening up recreational opportunities for hand-powered boats in terms of access, camping and facilities.
Safety is a matter we also take seriously. Learning to sea kayak is fairly simple. In a sheltered pond, wearing a flotation vest with a few friends, there is relative danger. The sport can become pretty addicting. Some of us have known the urge to paddle 365 days a year. The best part -- is that you can, that is .. if you know the risks and the rules of the playing field you're on. An informed kayaker is better able to handle potentially hazardous situations!
What are we talking about?
Learning the Navigational Rules of the Road is one way not to become 'Barge Roadkill!' There's the physical limits of exhaustion, hypothermia in cold weather and watching out for those who share the waterways with you: skiers, jetskiers, tankers, barges, tugs and sea monsters -- okay, only kidding, but there are some denizens of the deep that are lethal that you should be aware of.
In upcoming issues we'll explore some of these topics. We seek you're input, your experiences and your tips. This is your private zine on the web shared by just a few million close friends. The accumulated knowledge of our brethren kayakers will help us to be better informed and more capable in handling and avoiding preventable mishaps at sea. In the meantime - see ya on the trips and thanks for allowing us to drop on by.
INVITE - fellow 'Salty Doggers' on either your personal and club trips, or notify them of a special paddling event!