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Approximately 300 paddlers of all ages came out to Victoria Island yesterday under sunny skies to help celebrate the annual Canadian Rivers Day.
Some brought their own canoes or kayaks, while others joined a crew on one of the many historic wooden voyageur canoes for the 20 kilometre guided journey from Victoria Island to Petrie Island.
Many people brought their kids and dogs – it was definitely a family affair – which is exactly what the organizers wanted. Promoting
community involvement in watching over the Ottawa River is critical at a time when the river is facing several threats. Those attending yesterday’s paddle were well aware of the many raw sewage leaks into the river, as well as, radioactive leaks from the Atomic Energy of Canada Limited reactor at Chalk River.
“We are here to enjoy gifts of the river,” said Max Finkelstein. “But we have a duty of stewardship as well.”
Aboriginal leaders set the tone for the day by lighting a sacred fire in honour of the Ottawa River. Peter Decontie said a prayer for the safety of the paddlers in his Algonquin language.
Some of the more inexperienced paddlers were concerned about making the entire trip. Volunteer Laurel Rosene laid their fears to rest when she joked with them: “If you get tired, you have to keep paddling.”
Canadian Rivers Day was started in 2003 by the federal government as a way of recognizing the importance of rivers in our lives.