A New Trail

     When you’re in the Paddlesport Industry water is news.  When you have children you’re exposed to Disney movies.  When you can find a teaching moment that is interesting to both you and your children you’re lucky.  Today I feel lucky.

     I just read an article about a new water trail congress created named the Captain John Smith Historic Trail.  Although I am not a history buff I do recognize Captain Smith from one of my daughter’s favorite Disney Movies,  "Pocahontas."  His explorations in the mid-Atlantic area made him famous and now Congress is honoring him with a historical trail that is completely on the water.  Now history buffs, Pocahontas fans and paddling enthusiasts can all come together in and around the Chesapeake to explore and experience the voyages of Captain John Smith.

     It’s great to have a new historical trail recognized by Congress that children and adults will enjoy exploring.  Getting people outdoors and participating in paddlesports is even better.  Finding a way to help me enjoy learning more about history is priceless.

     Thanks to everyone who made this trail possible including President Bush, the Conservation Fund, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, American Rivers, Walt Disney, Pocahontas, and Captain John Smith. 

Founded in 1973, American Rivers is a national non-profit conservation organization dedicated to protecting and restoring healthy natural rivers for the benefit of people, wildlife and nature. American Rivers has over 65,000 supporters nationwide, with offices in Washington, DC and the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, Midwest, Southeast, California and Northwest regions. www.AmericanRivers.org.