CAUTION: Stay Clear of South Skunk River Near Hannums Mill Dam; Portage Around Dam Has Washed Out!  Read the details in the July 1 IWTA Newsletter in our Newsletter Archive.

Learn some “Interactive Iowa Paddling Map Tips” in the most recent “SPECIAL” IWTA Email in the News archive The interactive map was recently updated, and these tips will get you started using the new features.

It’s July in Iowa, and the Water Trails are calling. Could there be a better time to take a break and treat yourself to some all-natural stress relief?

Mother Nature is giving us an interesting mixture of heavy-but-scattered storms, resulting in an interesting mixture of high/low water levels, standing water, and some spots in the state indicating drought! Water levels in the Iowa Great Lakes are over two feet above crest, topping docks, damaging shorelines, causing officials to issue a 600 ft no wake zone to minimize erosion and property damage.

Some folks believe that the name “Iowa” is derived from an Indian term for “beautiful land.” Some suspect that it actually meant “variable weather.”

Plan ahead, check river gages, paddle with a partner(s), use proper gear, use common sense, enjoy yourself.