PPCS Message about Spring Trips and the Coronovirus Pandemic

Club Members,

Spring paddling season is upon us. TCs have canceled the first trips over concerns of the pandemic. Yesterday, Wednesday, 3/25, the executive board discussed what we should do in light of the federal and state guidelines for social interactions. The board unanimously voted to cancel all upcoming trips on the PPCS schedule until further notice. We have no idea what regulations might take effect in the near or distant future and therefore we can’t sponsor trips that bring people together and might compromise their health.

This is not to say that members can’t find their own ways to take paddling trips, hopefully following recommendations on sanitizing, group size and social distancing. The list serve is available for all club members to use to communicate with others.
In my opinion, keeping one’s space on the river is doable (not overloading eddies) and driving to the river separately, the trick is the shuttle. Six foot separation in an enclosed vehicle is impossible. Walking or bike shuttles would work. These are suggestions. As a club, we can’t even endorse how to organize or carry out a trip. People will have to use common sense as to whether they can get together and pull off a paddling trip safely.

I can’t believe this is happening during my favorite time of year. Anyone with alternatives or suggestions, we welcome your feedback.

Executive Board:
Kenny DeCoster, President; Helen Hess, Vice President; Ron Chase, Treasurer; Ken Gordon, Secretary; Ryan Galway, Past President