How to lead a paddling trip for Space Coast Paddlers

BEFORE

  1. Post trip details on scpaddlers calendar and post an e-mail on the yahoo group.  Indicate date and time, location of launch site and driving directions, length of paddle, Indication of skill and fitness level appropriate to the trip, and special items to bring e.g. lunch, camping supplies, wetsuits, helmets.  Include trip leaders name and contact information.
  2. Notify the ACA by e-mail ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) a minimum of 24 hours before the trip and again if the trip is cancelled.
  3. Comply with ACA event safety guidelines applicable to the event.  (ACA website; clubs & affiliates; resources and forms; checklist & planning documents)
  4. Obtain a list of SCP members (with ACA numbers) from SCP treasurer.  If unable to do this, check ACA cards at the event.
  5. Record names and contact info of those who intend to participate in the trip.  Notify these individuals in a timely manner if the trip is cancelled or changed.  Use of the e-mail on yahoo groups is usually adequate notification.
  6. Check weather conditions prior to trip to determine potential cancellation or postponement in case of hazardous conditions.
  7. Be familiar with the launch site in advance.  Arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled launch time to inspect the put-in area for hazards and direct arriving paddlers appropriately.

DURING

  1. Record names etc of participating paddlers on the trip list. (Final Report form).
  2. Obtain signed ACA waivers and $5.00 from paddlers who are not ACA members and signed waivers from ACA members who are not SCP members.
  3. Help paddlers prepare for launch.  Assess skill levels of new paddlers and request experienced paddling buddies to accompany them if appropriate.
  4. Brief the group about the trip.  Ask an experienced paddler to take point or sweep and you take the other position.  Sweep is one who follows the group to prevent stragglers.  Advise paddlers to stay together.  Check to ensure no one is missing during the trip and especially at the end of the paddle.  Large groups may be divided with experienced paddlers acting as leader and sweep for each group.

AFTER

  1. Within 2 weeks of the event:  send the trip list, waivers and fees to ACA, new applications including waiver to the SCP treasurer.

Note that the trip leader has the authority to:
  • Propose, cancel or postpone their paddling trip.
  • Designate the trip to be limited to club members.
  • Make a trip open only to individuals they choose to invite.
  • Exclude someone from their trip due to safety concerns.