March is a “transition” month, as winter begins to yield to spring (unless Mother Nature has forgotten about spring?).

During spring transition we need to be especially aware to consider differences between the calendar and the actual paddling environment. Sunshine & warm air can distract our attention from still-cold water. Rain & wind can be more chilling than snow, quickly leading to hypothermia. Remaining ice will deteriorate, with varying thicknesses and soft spots.

So, please be careful out there!

It has been very enjoyable to visit with many of our readers at events such as the ICNC Paddle Day in Cedar Rapids, Iowa Paddle & Pedal Expo in Indianola, IRR Legislative Reception in Des Moines, and REAP & Environmental Lobby Day at the Capitol. Your positive comments about IWTA and the IWTA Newsletter are much appreciated. We hope to visit with more of you at various events or on the Water Trails in the coming months.

BULLETIN: The venue has changed for the March 21 NE Iowa PaddleFest in Cedar Falls. Whether you are registered, or just plan to show up, be advised it will now be held at Clarion Inn Hotel, 5826 University Ave, Cedar Falls, IA 50613. Show hours are still 10:00-4:00. 

EVENT ADD: Plans for the April 18 “Crossing the Delaware” paddle have been announced. Brother and sister team Sam Childs and Hannah Childs invite you to paddle all, or any part, of the 43 river miles of the Maquoketa River within Delaware County. Details in the IWTA Newsletter.

EVENT ADD: Iowa City will begin a series of 4 Waterway Cleanups on March 29. Additional dates and details in the IWTA Newsletter.