Pennsylvania's 2004 River Sojourns: A Part Of June Rivers Month
A mid-season PA River Sojourns press release from the POWR offices:

Despite some rainy weather during the month of May and the beginning of June, early season Sojourns have introduced many participants to Pennsylvania Rivers in 2004. Additional Pennsylvania River Sojourns scheduled in June will help celebrate June Rivers Month in Pennsylvania.

The Swatara Sojourn (May 1 - 2) collected 31 tires and an estimated 3.5 tons of trash during their annual cleanup; a part of National River Cleanup Week sponsored by America Outdoors, the national association for outfitters and guides.


(Photo courtesy of Swatara Creek Watershed Association)

Carrying tires along as a third passenger is a fun, challenging, and rewarding aspect of the Swatara Sojourn.

The Clarion Sojourn (May 21 - 22) celebrated the Clarion's new "River Water Trail" designation, and publication of map and guide by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.



Senator Mary Jo White helped celebrate the occasion at the Pale Whale Canoe Livery adjacent to Cook's Forest State Park.

The Schuylkill Sojourn (June 4 - 10) reported a record number of registrants at 184 people who signed up for part or the entire trip. 41 brave souls signed up as through-trippers to tackle all 7 days on the river.



Allan Quant, of Canoe Susquehanna, gives the day's safety briefing talk to the full contingent of Sunday's Sojourners.


River Sojourns are the perfect way to celebrate June Rivers Month, a nationwide movement to emphasize the importance of rivers in our communities. Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell's Proclamation for 2004 June Rivers Month states, "events and activities scheduled for June reaffirm our commitment to the value and beauty of our river resources."

River Sojourns are multi-day paddling trips for all skill levels on Pennsylvania's waterways that highlight environmental issues, recreational opportunities, community events, and social interaction. Sojourns are perfect family trips catering to all age and skill levels. Most registration fees are all inclusive in regard to meals and lodging (usually tent camping). The remaining Sojourns scheduled for 2004 include:

Stonycreek-Kiski-Connie Rivers June 10 - 13
Juniata River June 12 - 19
Susquehanna River (North Branch) 2004 River of the Year! June 23 - 30
Lehigh River June 25 - 28
Allegheny River July 08 - 10
Ohiopyle Over the Falls Festival Sept 09 - 12

For more information, visit www.pawatersheds.org,; or contact POWR at 717-234-7910, sojourns@pawatersheds.org. The 2004 PA River Sojourn Season is supported by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources; and Rocky Mountain Kayaks.


- posted by frank cetera @ 3:19 PM