Newbie Paddler Program Scheduled for Sept. 12

FORT MYERS – A free program to help newcomers to canoeing, kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding is slated for Wednesday, Sept. 12, in South Fort Myers. Attendees can learn about launches, safety, equipment, eco-etiquette and more. New Paddlers as Eco Travelers will cover planning a paddle (launch locations, equipment suggestions, safety considerations), etiquette for viewing wildlife and trash conservation, the Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail (using the maps, outfitters and kayak fishing), and beginner basics, such as proper strokes, choosing a kayak and watching the weather. The new, two-hour program is part of the Eco Travelers Program, coordinated by the Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism (SEE). It’s co-hosted by the Southwest Florida Paddling Club and Lee County Parks & Recreation.

The 6:30 p.m. event is open to the public. Organizers encourage paddlesport newcomers, paddling club members, eco-tour providers, SEE members, Lee County Parks & Recreation volunteers and Calusa Blueway supporters to attend. There will be handouts, brochures, maps and hands-on information. It’s at the Eco Living Center, Rutenberg Park, 6490 South Pointe Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919. map

Directions can be found at the Lee Parks website. For more information and to RSVP, contact John Kiseda at (239) 432-2163. For questions about the Southwest Florida Paddling Club, email President Pat Owen.

• What: New Paddlers as Eco Travelers
• When: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12.
• Where: Rutenberg Park’s Eco Living Center, 6490 South Pointe Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919
• Who: Open to the public; we encourage paddling club members, eco-tour providers, SEE members, Lee County Parks & Recreation volunteers and Calusa Blueway supporters to attend.
• Cost: Free
• Info: (239) 432-2163; an RSVP is requested.
• Hosts: Southwest Florida Paddling Club, Florida Society for Ethical Ecotourism, Calusa Blueway Paddling Trail and Lee County Parks & Recreation