River Healing Journey I

CHECK THIS YEAR EVENT

The River Healing Journey is a citizen-based, non-profit, volunteer paddling and camping project to:

• raise awareness of River issues;
• help promote exploring and enjoying our historic and majestic rivers in human-powered craft;
• to raise money for Ottawa Riverkeeper. For information on Ottawa Riverkeeper, check www.ottawariverkeeper.ca; and

• provide “ordinary Canadians” an opportunity to travel from Ottawa to Montreal, in a replica “Montreal” voyageur canoe along the historic Ottawa River – the original Trans-Canada highway!

  The River Healing Journey will travel from Ottawa to Montreal in two Voyageur canoes, guided by experienced outfitters. The pace will be moderate, to accommodate individuals of varying physical strength and fitness – we will all be paddling together to the best of our ability and within our comfort limits. And we will sing French Voyageur songs as we do it!

  The detailed itinerary is still under development. The pace will be leisurely and will include visits “on foot” to national historic sites, including the Carillon Barracks and the Fur Trade Warehouse at Lachine. At this point, the proposed key stops along the way (subject to confirmation of campsites and planning/booking of the side trips) are:

• Day one (June 11, 2007), the River Healing Journey will depart Petrie Island (just outside of Ottawa) and paddle to a campsite near Montebello, Quebec.
• Day two (June 12, 2007), the River Healing Journey will travel from Montebello to Grenville, Quebec.
• Day three (June 13, 2007), the River Healing Journey will travel from Grenville, Quebec to St. Andre, Quebec.
• Day four (June 14, 2007) the River Healing Journey will travel from St. Andre, Quebec to St. Anne de Bellevue (for lunch on the shore) and then to our final destination—the historic fur trading headquarters in Montreal!

  All meals will be provided by the outfitter, Canadian Voyageur adventures. Participants will need to bring their own camping gear. Participants will be expected to assist with food preparation.

  Along the way, we will be learning about the river and its ecological, historic and economic values. We will have campfire activities, including storytelling, sharing and singing.

  Please note, at this point, there is no plan to bring participants back from Montreal – participants should plan to make their own way back to Ottawa (carpool, bus and train are all options on this well-travelled land route!). If there is enough interest and is affordable, we could look into providing a shuttle service.

  How can I help?

  We are looking for ten to twenty adventurous individuals who are willing to pre-pay $500 to participate in what we hope will be a fun, interesting and worthwhile experience.

  What will happen to my money?

  Your cheque will be deposited in a special bank account for the benefit of Ottawa Riverkeeper. After the event, the outfitters (Canadian Voyageur Adventures) will be paid for their costs and services and the balance – 100% of it—will be donated to Ottawa Riverkeeper. Each participant will receive a tax receipt for the net amount that was donated to Ottawa Riverkeeper on his or her behalf.

  As of today, we now have 11 participants and are looking for 9 more paid participants by May 31.

  Please note, the $500 pre-payment is non-refundable. If you later discover that you cannot participate, for whatever reason, you will be responsible for selling your seat to someone else.

  What else?

  Paddle sports are inherently risky. Organizers assume no responsibility for accidents. Participants will be required to sign a standard disclaimer. As with all activities involving strenuous physical activity, participants are strongly advised to consult their physician regarding the advisability of participating in this activity. Participants are expected to act responsibly toward the environment and respectfully of their fellow Voyageurs, and to participate in communal chores, such as helping to prepare food and set up camp.

  How can I sign up?

  If this interests you, please send a brief note to healtheriver@hotmail.com indicating the key reasons you would like to participate in this adventure, and any comments or suggestions you may have.

  I cannot participate, but I would like to support the Journey—what can I do?

  We encourage you to make a donation to support the good work of Ottawa Riverkeeper.

  To make a donation online to support the Journey, please click here. Under Fund, please choose “Special Event” and in the comment section, please type River Healing Journey. You can also send your cheque or cash to Ottawa Riverkeeper, Attn River healing Project, PO BOX 67008, 421 Richmond Road, Ottawa, ON K2A 4E4

  A tax receipt will be available for all donations over $20.

  Thanks!