Let’s Plan For FUN in 2021!
Paddle Oregon 2020 is Canceled
A letter from Paddle Oregon Instigator, Travis Williams:
Hello All –
Nineteen years ago at about this time, in my first year as Riverkeeper & Executive Director at WR, I was preparing with our partners to host the first Paddle Oregon. From the get go – the trip was a hit, owing to the beauty of the Willamette, a great community of people, and the sheer fun and uniqueness of the event. Since that time we did another 18 Paddle Oregon’s in each successive year, and this year we were set for a big celebration for the 20th trip!
After waiting a few weeks to determine if Paddle Oregon can take place in August during the time of COVID, we’ve decided to cancel the trip this year.
Like you, we really wanted to make this trip happen, and were imaging the various contingencies we could put into place to protect all of us. Unfortunately, imagining people sitting three to a table at dinner, wearing masks in 85 degree heat, and having pods that are socially distanced just seems to be a ridiculous notion. Those are but three of the factors that are against us this time around. The biggest issue is the health of all of us.
As you likely know, this event has multiple roles, one being a staple fundraiser for our small non profit organization. All registrants have been sent an email with several options related to how you would like us to handle your 2020 registration fees paid to date. If you have not received this email CLICK HERE.
Over the next few weeks we will be in touch in regard to ways that you can engage with the river, from online platforms to learn about the Willamette River, to how to plan for a canoe and kayak trip on your own. We may even be able to host some smaller paddle trips, depending on the conditions.
Thank you, friends! We’ll be planning for FUN in 2021!
Join us when we really celebrate “20 Tours of WOW” on August 16th – 20th 2021
For the River,
Travis Williams
Riverkeeper & Executive Director
