Elkhorn Creek

Spalding Hurst ran the Elkhorn in Frankfort on Saturday. The weather was close to 70 degrees, the sun was out, and the winds blew a nice warm breeze. All of this in winter December. It was a great Christmas present for any kayaker. The creek was at 1000cfs and had plenty of good surfing spots along the way. A great day to be on the water. Many from throughout Kentucky were there to enjoy the optimal weather and water conditions.

Cumberland River 7000cfs

On this Friday, Ben Ballard, his roomate Eric Thoben and their paddling buddy Matt Jarboe went down the Cumberland at 7000 cfs. Ben says he was a little nervous, but all went well.

The river washes out at this level, and becomes wave-trains and sticky holes. Surfers is none existent and screaming right turns in to a washout wave-train that is realy swirly. The only thing you really have worry about is Last Drop. It becomes a solid class IV. The line is like threading a needle and it has some bad consiquences if you mess up. Everyone ran it successfully and they had a good time.

Revisting the Rockcastle

Here are a couple of videos from the archives. These were the early years for the Bardstown Boaters and some of our first trips on the Kentucky classic river, the Rockcastle. The songs in these videos, in order, are: Kanye West (he's gone down hill), Diplo, Express Rising and The Walkmen. This post goes out to Kevin in Bend, Oregon. Enjoy.


Rockcastle River May 2004 from bardstownboaters on Vimeo.


Rockcastle Overnight Trip 2004 from bardstownboaters on Vimeo.

Song of the Moment: Nathan Medley

Nathan Medley has a new album out and you can listen to many of the songs at www.nathanmedley.com.

Nathan is a singer & songwriter from Fredericksburg, Kentucky. He makes the kind of music that sounds like it came from Kentucky.

His new album is called Hill Billy Brigade and you can't get it anywhere. It was recorded at his home and is available to listen to through his website.

Phase 1 of whitewater park project complete

By Jenny Blandford for the Kentucky Standard

Phase I of the Beech Fork River whitewater project is complete. A reconnaissance evaluation of municipal supply and whitewater recreation enhancements of Beech Fork River near Rubble Dam conducted by RiverRestoration.org estimated the project to cost about $350,000 to $500,000.

RiverRestoration.org River Engineer Jason Carey, who was hired by Bardstown Boaters to survey the area in August, sent a letter to the city and the club Nov. 18.

“Last week, we got the materials back from (Carey), which was basically a letter outlining everything,” Bardstown Boaters President Spalding Hurst said. “The estimate is about where we hoped it would be.”

In the letter, Carey said Rubble Dam on the Beech Fork River “has excellent opportunity for enhancement of both municipal water supply and whitewater recreation. The site has a number of advantages that make the project not only feasible, but will also keep costs down.”

Carey stated in the letter the project would enhance “water supply infrastructure while creating a recreation amenity for the community.”

In the letter, Carey outlined four advantages for why the project is feasible. Those reasons were: good construction access on a two-track road, seasonal low-flows of the channel will ease construction and reduce environmental impacts, significant amount of material onsite that can be reused in construction to help reduce costs and no sensitive species or other significant environmental issues that would complicate permitting or deter public support.

RiverRestoration.org, which is a Glenwood Springs, Colo.-based company that focuses on river restoration, preservation, enhancement and use of ecosystems, was the first developer Bardstown Boaters hired to survey the area. Bardstown Boaters raised $10,000 — $6,000 from the club, $2,000 from City Council and $2,000 from tourism — to bring Carey, who has more than nine years of experience as a river engineer, to Bardstown. Carey has a master’s degree in civil engineering and a bachelor’s degree in physics.

Carey, along with Hibbs Engineering, conducted topographic and channel surveys and took photographs of the river channel. Hurst said in August RiverRestoration.org was chosen because the club felt Carey developed three of the best whitewater parks in Colorado.

While in Bardstown, Carey met onsite with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and discussed the project with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Nelson County floodplain manager and the Kentucky Division of Water.

“These regulators see no glaring objection to proceeding with this project and permitting should be straight forward,” Carey said in the letter. “We are requesting a notice to proceed with Phase II. The next steps are to perform engineering, obtain permits, develop alternatives and costs and assist seeking construction funds.”

Following receipt of the letter, Bardstown Boaters met Nov. 22 to discuss the next step.

“It was sort of a brainstorming meeting about what we, as a club, should be doing next to keep this project moving along since Phase I has been completed by RiverRestoration.org,” Hurst said. “So, we are moving toward Phase II.”

Phase II of the project — feasibility — includes eight tasks set forth by Carey in the river enhancement proposal, including hydrology, hydraulic analyses, preliminary design and alternatives, permitting, grant applications, landscape plan, final design and construction plans and specifications.

“He originally sent us an outline of all the phases and all the tasks within each of those phases,” Hurst said. “Phase II is design and Phase III is construction. Phase II includes the bulk of all the work.”

Phase II is projected to cost $44,500 and take about a year to complete, if everything goes as planned, Spalding said. Phase III — implementation — includes two tasks which entail construction bid package preparation and construction engineering services.

Bardstown Boaters plans to seek donations and sponsorships from local businesses and individuals and host fundraising events. Hurst said the club hopes to secure a non-profit status so money collected would be tax-deductible.

“We are going to start looking for some donors and we’re going to start putting on some events,” Hurst said.

Some ideas for fundraising include a bourbon barrel race on local waterways, card tournaments, educational and environmental grants and seeking funds from local government since the whitewater park project is a joint effort between Bardstown Boaters and Bardstown City Council. The emphasis of the River Recreation Enhancements design is to enhance Rubble Dam on the Beech Fork River for whitewater recreation and to improve the water supply. A plan for a whitewater park has been under way for about two years.

The data Carey collected will also be presented to Bardstown City Council, which will decide what the next step of the project will be.

Bardstown Boaters, which has about 115 members, supports a whitewater park, stating it could modify the hazardous Rubble Dam, attract visitors to the park, create a venue for paddlers, increase the city’s water supply, enhance the fish habitat, create a family-friendly and easily accessible river park, improve the aesthetics of the site and provide local economic stimulation.

According to its Web site, economic impacts of a whitewater park could provide recreation, tourism, competitions, new jobs and businesses, environmental awareness, construction of the river, enhanced land and property value and business retention.

For more information about Bardstown Boaters, visit www.bardstownboaters.com. To view some of RiverRestoration. org’s whitewater river projects, visit http://riverrestoration.org/ projects/index.html.

Jenny Blandford can be reached at 348-9003, Ext. 114, or jblandford@kystandard.com.

PitCo gives $100K for kayak park

The Pitkin County Open Space and Trails board Thursday agreed to spend up to $100,000 to design and help build a small and “moderately difficult” kayak park in the Roaring Fork River in Basalt, just upstream of the Elk Run neighborhood.

The funding was granted at the request of Pitkin County Attorney John Ely, who said a recently completed $10,000 feasibility study by The McLaughlin Whitewater Design Group in Denver concluded the park would be both a recreational and environmental improvement.

If the $100,000 expenditure for the kayak park is approved by the county commissioners, about $75,000 will be paid to Jason Carey of River Restoration.org of Glenwood Springs to design a kayak wave, a small boat ramp and riverside trails.

Read More

DLG Accepting Applications for Recreational Trails and Land and Water Grants

The Department for Local Government (DLG) is currently accepting applications for two grant programs to be awarded in 2009: Recreational Trails Program grant applications will be accepted through February 1, 2009 and the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) applications will be accepted through March 1, 2009.

The Recreational Trails Program is funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). It can be used to provide assistance for acquisition of easements, development and maintenance of recreational trails and trailhead facilities for both motorized and non-motorized use. Eligible applicants are city and county governments, state and federal agencies, and non-profit organizations.
The LWCF provides federal grant funds to acquire land for outdoor recreation and to develop or renovate public outdoor recreation facilities such as campgrounds, picnic areas, sports & playfields and support facilities.

Administered by DLG, funds for this program are allocated to Kentucky by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Interior. Cities, counties, state and federal agencies are eligible to apply.

Tonight's Meeting

The Bardstown Boaters held a very productive meeting tonight at Bardstown Mills, discussing future plans of moving forward with the whitewater park initiative.

Phase I - Reconnaissance Evaluation of Municipal Supply and Whitewater Recreation Enhancements on the Beech Fork at Rubble Dam - has been completed.

Phase II is projected to cost $44,500. The Bardstown Boaters plan to seek donations and sponsorships from local businesses, hold fundraising events and seek out a non-profit shell for the money to be received.

Ideas ranged from bourbon barrel races on local water ways, card tournaments, educational and environmental grants and receiving funds from local government due to the whitewater park also being a municipal water supply project. Improvements to the rubble dam would serve recreational purposes as well as serving Bardstown's current and future water needs.

Spalding Hurst, the club President, will be building an informational packet that highlights the benefits of the park and outlines the details of the park's creation. Total costs are estimated by RiverRestoration.org to be between $350,000 & $500,000.

Future meetings are being planned to occur each month to discuss the progress on the park and all other club activities. Continue visiting this website for more details.

Big South Fork in the Fall

What compels us to venture into the outdoors during unfavorable weather?
The spirit of adventure is strong, even with snow and temperatures falling, for a group of Kentucky paddlers, the urge to explore a familiar river shed remained. A large number of paddlers did just that on a cold Sunday in November.

After a long drought through the Summer, the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River finally reached a level suitable for paddling of nine hundred cubic feet per second (cfs). As the numbers of the water gauge raised, so did the amount of paddlers seeking the thrill of whitewater.

The Bardstown Boaters, Viking Canoe Club, and Bluegrass Wildwater Association all had representation in a group of nine kayakers making their way through the scenic class four and class three rapids of the Big South Fork. Temperatures reached highs of thirty-nine degrees, the water temperature was a bit warmer than that. The wind blew at times, but these paddlers never felt the cold of the day.

The rapids are familiar. The same thousand-year-old rocks residing in their indistinguishable positions. Double Drop, Washing Machine, The El, and Ass Kicker. Yet, they all become new again when you reach the lip of the drop and prepare to make your line through the twisting whitewater.

At the bottom of the rapid, the exhilaration subdues, a steady calmness takes over and all doubts about the weather have been washed away. Rolling out of bed at seven a.m. and venturing out into the Fall’s cold morning air is now well worth it. The majesty of the Big South Fork’s high gorges and the greatness of the people who paddle them make it all extremely worth while. And the only thought that crosses your mind is, “What compels people to stay indoors during unfavorable weather, when there is so much fun to be had outside?”

Reconnaissance Evaluation

RiverRestoration.org is pleased to inform you that the Rubble Dam on the Beech Fork has excellent opportunity for enhancement of both municipal water supply and whitewater recreation.

The existing rubble dam is nearly 100-years old and has deteriorated, reducing the pumping pool capacity and potential water supply. Furthermore, the angle of the structure has created erosion of the right bank that will soon be problematic for the pump station access road and the dam itself. The necessary improvements to the dam can easily include fish passage, boat passage and whitewater recreation. Bank improvements can be designed for the dual purposes of a community river park and for erosion control.

The site has a number of advantages that make the project not only feasible, but will also keep costs down. 1) There is good construction access on a two track road, although this may cross private property and easements will likely be required. 2) The seasonal low-flows of the channel will ease construction and reduce environmental impacts. 3) There is a significant amount of material onsite that can be reused in construction, further reducing costs. 4) There are no sensitive species or other significant environmental issues that would complicate permitting or deter public support.

We have initiated project coordination by meeting onsite with KY Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. We have discussed the project with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Nelson County Floodplain manager and the KY Division of Water. These regulators see no glaring objection to proceeding with this project and permitting should be straight forward. The City Engineers see the project as maintaining existing infrastructure and expanding the potential for future water supply. The Bardstown Chamber has already enjoyed national press (National Geographic Adventure, September 2008) generated by the project buzz. Furthermore you have a local Whitewater Park Committee that enthusiastically represents public support for the project.

We have completed a channel survey of the site and drafted hydraulic models. We have done preliminary hydrologic analyses and understand the constraints and functions of the site. We have reviewed floodplain scenarios and obtained hydraulic information from the US 31E Bridge project. We are prepared to move forward with the design of the project.

We previously submitted to you a July 28, 2008 proposal to take this project to construction bid. This letter represents the completion of Phase I of that proposal. We are requesting a notice to proceed with Phase II. The next steps are to perform engineering, obtain permits, develop alternatives and costs, and assist seeking construction funds. Our experience has been that funding is always competitive and those projects that show diligence by obtaining permits and presenting feasible design are awarded funds; while projects that remain conceptual are told to re-apply next year in the hopes that funding will be less competitive. Conceptually, you should be seeking funds between $350K and $500K; however, we request the opportunity to legitimize the grant application process.

This project is a winner for Bardstown; enhancing water supply infrastructure while creating a recreation amenity for the community. This can be accomplished without environmental impacts. Our whitewater parks experience three times the passive users over the number of actual boaters. The community will also come to the park to watch the birds, picnic, fish or swim. The actual whitewater aspect can generate tremendous press among the young athletic crowd. Today’s young professionals choose to live where their lifestyles are supported and places that offer recreation have been revived by this trend.

Russell Fork Rendezvous

Once again The Bardstown Boaters were at the Russell Fork Rendezvous for some glorious Fall paddling. The Rendezvous is a gathering in Eastern Kentucky to celebrate the Russell Fork River and the wonderful people of the area.

You could find The Bardstown Boaters camp at the trailhead for the Pine Mountain Trail.

On Saturday, The Bardstown Boaters paddled the Upper Section of the Russell Fork then hiked into The Gorge Section to watch competitors in The Lord of The Fork, a whitewater race through what is known as the Beast of the East.

On Sunday, many in the club paddled the Upper Section of the Russell Fork River once again.

The Russell Fork runs every weekend in October with scheduled releases on Saturday and Sunday. The scenery is always spectacular this time of year. When the Fall comes it continues to invoke memories of the Russell Fork into the minds of Bardstown Boaters.

For some first-hand recounts, a run down of the winners, and more images from the weekend visit the forum.

Race to follow Bourbon Trail

A new adventure relay race called The Bourbon Chase will be held for the first time in Kentucky in October 2009.

Teams consisting of 12 runners will run along the state's famed Bourbon Trail on Oct. 9-10. The race will start near Bardstown and finish in Lexington, but the route the runners will take covers nearly 200 miles.

"Certainly, running along the trail in horse country is beautiful. It's a great way to showcase our finest products," said Mary Quinn Ramer, vice president of tourism marketing for the Lexington Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The idea for the race came from Mike Kuntz, a former track and field coach at the University of Louisville and Bellarmine University.

He participated in Oregon's annual Hood to Coast Relay in 2001 with former U of L runners.

"This is the grandmother of them all," he said of the Oregon race.

"I thought we could do an event in Kentucky that could be even better," he said, adding that Kentucky has more to market, and the Bourbon Trail has more beautiful scenery than the Oregon race route.

"I felt like we could have a better runner's experience in Kentucky. ... Oregon was beautiful, but they really didn't showcase the state," he said.

Kuntz talked with people in the bourbon industry about his idea for a race in Kentucky nearly a year ago.

"It's my idea that's been slightly tweaked," he said of the Kentucky race.

Lexington has been designated as the host city for the overnight relay race.

"We want to have a huge post-race event here in Lexington," Ramer said.

She said the race could have an $800,000 to $1 million economic impact on the Lexington area. People who participate in such events often stay overnight in the cities where the races end, she said.

"Ultimately our goal is to have an event that will bring people from every corner of the United States," she said.

Next year's race will be held the same weekend that Keeneland Race Course's fall meet starts, so participants can enjoy the city after the run, then head to the track, she said.

Up to 4,000 participants and volunteers are expected the first year for The Bourbon Chase, which is designed to celebrate Kentucky's bourbon production history, according to planners of the event. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail links distilleries in the state, where visitors can see how bourbon is made.

Each runner will run three three- to eight-mile legs. Support vans will drop off and pick up runners at designated exchange points along the route.

"This is a great opportunity to introduce our signature industry to thousands of adventurous travelers," said Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers' Association.

Details for the event are still being worked out, including what prizes the winners will receive.

"I think there's nothing to win on a Bourbon chase really than bourbon," Kuntz said.

For more info visit www.bourbonchase.com

Viking Canoe Club Donation

The Bardstown Boaters would like to send out a very big thank you to The Viking Canoe Club and to those who attended the LVM Premiere at Nachbar in Louisville. They have graciously donated $100 in proceeds towards the Bardstown Whitewater Park.

The Viking Canoe Club and The Nachbar host many LVM Premieres and other boater friendly activities. Keep checking in with the Vikings and visit the Nachbar at 969 Charles Street on the corner of Charles and Krieger in Germantown where there is always a good time to be had.

Song of the Moment

This is the song of the moment. ”The Funeral” by Band of Horses. You will enjoy this tune while driving home on the Eastern Mountain Parkway.

[Flash 9 is required to listen to audio.]

This Weekend …

Russell Fork Rendezvous
This Weekend.

Wild and Scenic Rivers Act - 40th Anniversary

On October 2, 1968, President Johnson signed the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Paddlers were and continue to be among the most passionate advocates for protecting our nation's free-flowing rivers. Upon witnessing the loss of hundreds of miles of great rivers to water development projects and hydropower, paddlers were among the first activists who advocated for a Wild and Scenic Rivers system to protect our nation’s last free-flowing rivers.

In Kentucky there is only one river in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, Red River.

(154) (A) RED RIVER, KENTUCKY. — The 19.4-mile segment of the Red River extending from the Highway 746 Bridge to the School House Branch, to be administered by the Secretary of Agriculture in the following classes: (i) the 9.1-mile segment known as the "Upper Gorge" from the Highway 746 Bridge to Swift Camp Creek, as a wild river (this segment is identified as having the same boundary as the Kentucky Wild River), (ii) the 10.3-mile segment known as the "Lower Gorge" from Swift Camp Creek to the School House Branch, as a recreational river.

Hike Pine Mountain, Channel Daniel Boone

By DAN WHITE

“THIS is all virgin trail,” said Shad Baker, a connoisseur of hiking in the steeply slanted backwoods of eastern Kentucky, as he dropped me off at the start of my adventure there on the new Pine Mountain Trail. “This is probably the most remote place you can get that exists out here. You are five miles even from the nearest house.”

We said goodbye. He drove off. And then I slipped into woods so thick they looked like an American jungle.

Read More in the New York Times

Song of the Moment

Neil Young's "Alabama"

You just can't beat old Neil Young tunes. May this one be on you're radio the next time your heading to the put-in.

[Flash 9 is required to listen to audio.]

Rusell Fork Rapid Descriptions

The upper and lower sections of the Russell Fork offer fantastic views and great Class II-III action. The upper is fantastic for intermediate paddlers who want to work on surfing and boofs, the lower is a great beginner/intermediate training ground. If we could only figure out how to jam them together!

Visit the great Russell Fork Info website for a run down on all of these rapids.

Upper Section
Splashdam
Railroad
Twenty Stitches
Johnny Rock

Lower Section
MeatGrinder
Pinball

Site Update

The Bardstown Boaters website has undergone some changes today. You might not notice much difference but behind the scenes things have changed. Now anyone can be a contributer to the main page blog that you see here. If you would like to contribute please let me know. I am looking for some new writers to the blog. Contact me at spalding@bardstownboaters.com

Race Challenges Didn't Stop It

This year's "Bourbon City Challenge," which was last Sunday in the area around Samuels Field, Sympson Lake and west Bardstown, had a pair of major challenges. First, the organizers, led by former Standard Reporter Bob White, lacked a major sponsor and had to scramble to figure out how to pay the bills without serious underwriting. The participants in the run, paddle and peddle competition faced wind gusts of more than 50 mph during the early afternoon dodging falling limbs and being pushed backward and sideways.

As it turned out the second annual event turned out to be a great success with more people taking part as individuals or as part of a team. We hope that the perseverance shown by White, Bardstown Boaters, Horizon Hoppers and the other sponsors will pay off next year in landing a "naming sponsor" for the event.

In the meantime, the community should be thankful that we have volunteers who have the fortitude to stay with a project even in the face of adversity and give it a chance to succeed. If we are going to live up to the outdoor adventure potential that National Geographic Magazine sees here it will take some more of the vision shown by the "Challenge" organizers.

Their efforts should be applauded and others should follow their example to make Nelson County the place it can be.

Bourbon City Challenge Results

Here are the results from the Bourbon City Challenge

Male Solo
1st - Matt Hoyes (Bardstown) 2 hours, 15 minutes
2nd - Jeremiah Ellis (Fort Knox)
3rd - Thad Hardin, two hours, 26 minutes

Team Relay
1st - Brian Beauman and Bradley Medley (Bardstown) two hours 16 minutes
2nd - Djzvad Kreso, Mike Zoeller, and Chris Walsh (Bardstown)
3rd - Kenny & John Thomas, Lindsay & Robin Cline

Female Solo
1st - Amanda Tucker - 2:38
2nd - Sue Mulet - 2:42
3rd - Leslie Seymour

Hollis Hurst

Hollis Clark Hurst was born today in Bardstown, Kentucky. Weighing in at seven pounds 12 ounces and twenty-one and a half inches long, Hollis looks to be a promising young boater. She is the daughter of Spalding and Jennifer Hurst, members of the Bardstown Boaters.

More Pictures: Picasa

Bardstown Recycling Program

In 2008 the City of Bardstown and the government of Nelson County worked together to apply for a grant to start a recycling program for all city and county residents. In May of 2008 they were given notification that they had received the grant from the State of Kentucky. This grant made it possible to purchase the forklift, two balers and five recycling bin trailers that would be necessary for the start of the program in the Bardstown community. The trailers will be parked strategically around the city and throughout the county where you can drop off your recyclable materials that you have collected.

To learn more about which materials you can recycle and where the bins are located check out the City of Bardtown’s website.

Adventure Race This Sunday

Adventure Race
This Sunday!
Register Now

This year's Bourbon City Challenge Adventure Race in Bardstown, Ky., Sept. 14, 2008 begins Sunday at 9 a.m. at the Bardstown-Nelson County Airport on U.S. 62 just a mile west of Bardstown.

Notes about the race

1. Anyone Training on the lake prior to race day needs a $10 boat permit. This does not include trail running or biking on the road. There is no permit needed on race day.

2. Anyone planning to rent a canoe or kayak, needs to contact Central Ky. Canoe and Kayak's Mike Hammons at (502) 345-9220 or (502) 507-9364 to reserve a boat. We're trying to have numbers coincide with racers to ensure all people get a canoe or kayak as they intend. The rental boats are $20.

3. The event goes rain or shine. No exceptions. This is an adventure race, so we'll not quit for weather. (as those who entered last year's race know, a little rain can actually improve conditions and the mud makes for a great photo op!)

4. Please arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to station your bikes, boats and teammates at transition areas. Both Bike and Boat Transition areas are on Ben Irvin Road on the back side of Sympson Lake. Attached is a map of the bike and boat course (The trail has changed since this map was made) The map details the bike transition area. The boat transition area is the boat ramp at Sympson lake. Please position your boat on the shore on the left side of the concrete boat ramp. The concrete ramp needs to be clear as much as possible.

5. We have a lot of return racers from last year's event and that says to me we did a pretty good job last year! Hopefully this year, racers will be even more impressed.

Bardstown Whitewater Park

Find out more about the Bardstown Whitewater Park

Colorado-based company surveys Beech Fork River for whitewater park

From: The Kentucky Standard

RiverRestoration.org surveyed Beech Fork River near Rubble Dam Thursday as part of Phase I of the Beech Fork whitewater park project.

River Engineer Jason Carey with the Glenwood Springs, Colo.-based company, which focuses on river restoration, preservation, enhancement and use of ecosystems, will be in Bardstown through Saturday.

The whitewater park project is a joint effort between Bardstown Boaters and Bardstown City Council. The emphasis of the River Recreation Enhancements design is to enhance Rubble Dam on the Beech Fork River for whitewater recreation and to improve the water supply.

A plan for a whitewater park has been under way for about two years, Bardstown Boaters President Spalding Hurst said.

“We had a really good spot to build a whitewater park,” he said, “and since that time, we have been raising money and looking for ways to bring in some designers to start the work on this. That’s where we’re at today with RiverRestoration.org.”

RiverRestoration.org is the first developer Bardstown Boaters has hired to survey the area. Bardstown Boaters raised $10,000 — $6,000 from the club, $2,000 from City Council and $2,000 from tourism — to bring Carey, who has more than nine years of experience as a river engineer, to Bardstown. Carey has a master’s degree in civil engineering and a bachelor’s degree in physics.

“We had explored the idea of going with another firm from Colorado,” Hurst said. “For a while, we were going to try to go with a professor at the University of Louisville that does stream restoration, but it didn’t work out with them. They felt the scope of work was not what they could do and the timing wasn’t right. So, we went back to the Colorado engineers and found Jason.”

Carey, along with Hibbs Engineering, will be conducting topographic and channel surveys and taking photographs of the river channel. Carey will also be meeting with officials to discuss what can be done and what is allowed at the river. Hurst said RiverRestoration.org was chosen because the club felt Carey developed three of the best whitewater parks in Colorado.

“We do a lot of different kinds of river projects all over the place, but we’ve currently been getting involved in recreation enhancements, mostly whitewater kayak parks,” Carey said. “We really think they are great projects because they kind of bring communities back to their river ways and they introduce people to the river system and make the rivers a great place to be.”

Carey said Bardstown had a perfect location for a whitewater park near Rubble Dam, which serves as a back-up water supply for Bardstown.

“The city is interested in improving this system for municipal water supply as well as making it an amenity for the community,” he said. “I think there is a lot of opportunity here.”

Kayak parks are becoming increasingly more popular in cities, Carey said.

To create a whitewater park, rocks are rearranged and reform the channel hydraulics to create waves that allow surfboards, inner tubes and kayaks to float in moving water.

The information Carey collects from the surveys will be converted to a computer model to compare the information to hydraulic models to predict what would happen to the river at different levels.

“In the computer, we can stimulate water running through here and make it as deep as we want to,” Carey said. “[It will also help us] understand how the river system works right here to understand what opportunities we might have for improving it.”

RiverRestoration.org will work with the Division of Fish and Wildlife to help protect vegetation, wildlife and river species.

“We will investigate the opportunities and constraints, such as do we have issues with the bridge? Do we have issues with flooding? What are the constraints of the site? We work with the resource agencies and the habitat issues and figure out what can be done,” he said. “Possibly, we could enhance the habitat.”

The data Carey collects will be presented to Bardstown City Council and from there, the city would decide what the next step of the project would be. The project could cost between $300,000 to $1 million and could take at least a year to complete.

The Bardstown Boaters support a whitewater park, stating it could modify the hazardous Rubble Dam, attract visitors to the park, create a venue for paddlers, increase the city’s water supply, enhance the fish habitat, create a family-friendly and easily accessible river park, improve the aesthetics of the site and provide local economic stimulation.
According to its Web site, economic impacts of a whitewater park could provide recreation, tourism, competitions, new jobs and businesses, environmental awareness, construction of the river, enhance land and property value and business retention.

To view some of RiverRestoration.org’s whitewater river projects, visit http://riverrestoration.org/projects/index.html.

RiverRestoration.org in Bardstown

National Geographic Recognizes Bardstown & Whitewater Park

Bardstown has been named one of 50 “next great adventure towns in which to live and play” by National Geographic Adventure magazine.

On Bardstown, National Geographic wrote: “We ain’t gonna lie: Bardstown’s status as the world’s bourbon capital drew us in, but its rivers flow as freely as the whiskey. Paddlers convene at Sympson Lake, and a whitewater park is in the works downtown. Not in the liquor business? Lexington and Louisville are both less than an hour’s commute.”

Now we just need to deliver on that whitewater park so we can truley make Bardstown a great adventure town!

Article: Kentucky Standard

Club Stickers

Only $1

Slap this bad boy onto your car, truck or boat to show some love to your local boating club.

Bardstown Boaters offers the original, exclusively printed Club stickers which are being sold with a minimal markup to cover our expenses. It's the best proactive way that we know to make sure that this image that was produced by the volunteer efforts of the few, end up in the hands of the many. Get it here.

Bourbon City Challenge Adventure Race 2008 in Bardstown, Kentucky

Bourbon City Challenge Adventure Race 2008 is proud to announce Central Kentucky Canoe and Kayak as the 2008 title sponsor for next month's adventure race in Bardstown.

Central Kentucky Canoe and Kayak - a vital supporter of last year's race - joins hands with more than a dozen other event supporters already whom have pledged their support. And we're still five weeks out from race day.

"Supporting this event is a given for me," Mike Hammons, CKCK owner said. "I had a great time last year and with many of the same supporters on board this year, we'll again see this event grow into one of Kentucky's most enjoyed races."

Thanks to the canoe and kayak livery of Central Kentucky's acceptance of the title sponsorship, this is sure to be another great year for the Bourbon City Challenge Adventure Race.

CKCK joins a generous and dedicated group of supporters - the majority of which turned out last year for the event's inaugural - of whom all are critical to the event's success.

Red Bull, Kentucky Bourbon Distillers, Beam Global Spirits, Makers Mark, Flaget Hospital, Ale-8-One, Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, Bardstown Boaters, Honaker Aviation, Joe Hill's Equipment, Lonely Goat Productions, and many others are on board again this year to support the event and we invite and encourage others to lend their support.

The cooperation of the city, county, and state governments, their departments and the Bardstown-Nelson County Air Board must also be recognized, because only with their cooperation can this event be what it is.

This year's Bourbon City Challenge Adventure Race in Bardstown, Ky., Sept. 14, 2008 begins Sunday at 9 a.m. at the Bardstown-Nelson County Airport on U.S. 62 just a mile west of Bardstown.

The first year's event was a great success drawing 70 racers, 40 sponsors and more than 100 spectators and race fans. This year is sure to attract even more.

The multi-sport race combines running, paddling, navigation and road cycling in a race designed to challenge the person of average athletic ability and provide die-hard athletes a great venue to compete in.

The Bourbon City Challenge is followed by a week filled with activities in Bardstown, during the Kentucky Bourbon Festival's full-week of events. The world renown festival is a celebration of Bardstown's 200-year distilling heritage.

The race begins with a run leaving the Bardstown-Nelson County Airport and continuing across adjoining property with Sympson Lake, where a paddling leg of the event takes place. After the paddle, racers mount bicycles to head their way back to Bardstown on a 12-mile ride in and around Bardstown.

The event offers three categories of racers: solo male, solo female and team relay.

The team relay category allows participants to partake in only portions of the race, while teammates fulfill other legs.

"This keeps the event open and fun to all, not just the hardcore athletes," Bob White, race creator said. "That's what we're here to do is have a great time running, paddling and cycling in the outdoors."

Entry fee for the 2008 race is $30 per racer. The price includes free camping and party activities the night before, a gift bag filled with neat stuff from our sponsors, and a chance at winning prize packages.

Learn more about the event and register online for the race at www.kyrace.com. Bardstown Boaters and Horizon Hoppers Adventure Services are hosting the event along with Bob White, a news reporter for Landmark Community Newspapers Inc. Those interested in sponsoring the event, being an event vendor, volunteering, or media interviews, should contact Bob White.

Ocoee Trip

Summer trip to the Ocoee with Jay, John, and Kenny Thomas, Jonny and Michael Matthews, Scott(Scooter), David Ethridge, Spalding Hurst, Josh Carpenter, and Amber camping at Ocoee River Rats. First run on the lower with Jay and Kenny in the duckie, Spalding and Josh in Kayaks, and Jonny guiding Michael, Scooter, David, and John in Ole Abram(bucket raft). Second run included the upper-lower combo run with Spalding, Michael, Jay, Kenny, John, and scooter in Ole Abram. Tons of fun all around. Highlights include Jay and Kenny with a swim at Double Trouble in the Duckie, running the meat of Double Suck BACKWARDS in Ole Abe, Scooter and Michael getting a bull ride in on Hell Hole, and Ethridge's attempts to keep a cigar lit on the whitewater. Can't wait to go back.

Pictures

Bardstown Whitewater Park Proposal Recieved

We have recieved a letter of Interest for River Design Services of Municipal Supply and Whitewater Recreation Enhancements from RiverRestorations.org.

The emphasis of the River Recreation Enhancements design will be to enhance the rubble dam on the Beech Fork for whitewater recreation and improved water supply. Proposed is a holistic approach that balances the environment with the recreational facets, as well as facilitating municipal water supply. The project will provide additional community benefits such as: passive enjoyment of the riparian zone, swimming holes, fishing access, and a tourist draw.

Through the efforts of the Bardstown Boaters and Bardstown City Officials we may be soon moving toward Phase 1; Reconnaissance Survey of the Bardstown Whitewater Park. Stay tuned...

BADDLUN

For those hardcore adventure types, try your hand at Baddlun at the Russell Fork.

Ratliff Hole, Elkhorn City, Ky
Noon, Saturday, October 11th, 2008
13 mile bike, 9 mile paddle, 3 mile run.

Mass start bike from Ratliff Hole to Bartlick Bridge, paddle down Russell Fork to Carson Island, trail run back to Ratliff Hole. No entry fee, no prizes, no teams...we do this shit for fun. Great training for Lord of the Fork Race. River safety and a sweep wagon will be provided.

More info: Baddlun

New Local Creek?

Jennifer Hurst, while driving through Boston, KY was sent on a detour around a traffic accident. She reported that the creek that followed the road she was on looked like it may abe a pretty good whitewater run if it had water in it. So put Cedar Creek on your list of local creeks to check into the next time it rains.

Click here for a map of Cedar Creek. It passes under Bennets Lane near Boston, Ky.

You can add this to the list of Bardstown’s most promising oppertunities for whitewater creeking, which includes Rowan Creek. No first decents have been made just yet. But it has got to rain again.

Ocoee Viking Trip

Spalding Hurst and Josh Carpenter paddled the Ocoee this weekend, along with 20+ Viking Canoe Club members. Runs were made on the Upper and Middle sections on both days.

Song of the Moment : Kitchenware & Candybars

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Here is a great song from back in the day. Not one of the hits from STP’s Purple album, but a favorite around here. And hey, listen to the lyrics. It’s a river song.

Is STP getting back together? Is Scott Weiland still alive? These guys used to be good.

If you would like to help us pick the next song of the moment just leave your choice in the comments section below.

Whitewater Spells Green for Glenwood

GLENWOOD SPRINGS — Footage of the Glenwood Springs White Park can now be seen on youtube.com, which might answer any questions concerning the popularity of the town’s newest attraction.

“It’s taken off a little quicker than we had expected it would,” said Brian Wright, co-owner of Glenwood Canyon Kayak.

Wright and his business partner, Chris Vogt, are surprised at how quickly interest in the whitewater park has spread, not only throughout Colorado but also nationally and worldwide.

“It’s crazy, the attention it’s been receiving,” Wright said. “It’s turned out better than we even dreamed.”

Wright, who is on the Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park Committee, also designed and maintains the park’s website.

Over the first few months the park, built on the Colorado River in West Glenwood, has been open for business, the website has received hits from 35 states and 20 foreign countries, including Europe and South America.

“My wish is that everyone in Glenwood is as proud of this as we are because it’s something to be proud of,” Vogt said. “[Glenwood] is now in the national, if not the world, spotlight for our industry and our sport. There are not a lot of places that are, and even fewer places that have exploded into the spotlight like we have.”

That type of interest could mean a sizable economic impact on a town that already is a summer tourist destination.

Kate Collins, the vice president of tourism marketing for the Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association, said she is excited about the potential of the town’s newest attraction.

“Between the whitewater park and the completion of the Rio Grande Trial, we can hardly contain ourselves,” Collins said. “The economic impact for tourism and the focus of a new and defined segment of the kayaking community is very exciting.”

The Glenwood Whitewater Park Committee was recently awarded its bid to host the U.S. Kayak Freestyle Team Trial, to be held in the summer of 2009. The U.S. trials are often held in Canada on the Ottawa River that makes up part of the border between Quebec and Ontario provinces. The event will likely generate national and world recognition for Glenwood, as well as generate added tourism income with an influx of hundreds to thousands of people.

“It’s a little hard to appreciate if you’re not a boater, but it’s a pretty big honor,” Wright said.

Hosting the trials could eventually lead to other events in Glenwood, such as the World Kayak Championships, say the kayak shop’s owners.

“There is speculation of possibly being able to hold the championships here,” Vogt said.

It’s those type of events that carry huge economic impacts for them.

“We are excited about anything that brings new and incremental business to the town,” Collins said. “It’s different when we are looking at what is already peak season.”

Collins said the chamber looks for opportunities to build tourism during the months of June, July and August. But Wright and Vogt agree that the park will generate interest for much of the rest of the year, as well.

“No one has done a whitewater park on a river like this before,” Vogt said. “We’ve got a viable park that is usable from March through October.”

Additionally, both Wright and Vogt are talking about aiding in organizing a local annual event that would be more like the Teva Games in Vail or the FIBArk Mountain Festival in Salida, Colo.

“The park makes this town a recreation hub,” Wright said. “It’s tax dollars well spent.”

The park has cost approximately $900,000 to build so far, and might gain additional parking, shower and restroom facilities, and viewing areas on either side of the river, Wright said.

Colorado Trip

By: Zack Wimpsett

Four friends and I went to Colorado for 12 days of kayaking, hiking, and skiing. We left for Colorado Springs on May 9th and came home on the 20th.

We arrived in Colorado Springs on the 10th after an 18hr drive. Our first day in Colorado we hiked 7miles on Barr trail at Pike's peak up to 11,000 ft elevation and camped, it was a brutal hike. We originally thought we would try for the peak, but after the car ride and the hike, I think the summit would have been near impossible. Day 2 was spent hiking off the Mountain and checking out the Garden of the God's.

We headed from Colorado Springs to Buena Vista. In Buena Vista I kayaked

the white water park on the Arkansas; we also ran a short class II-III section on the Arkansas. The run and the Whitewater Park were awesome, but I broke my paddle which was not so awsome. Our second day in Buena Vista the group was suppose to go rafting on the class IV-V Pine creek to the numbers section of the Arkansas while I kayaked, but the temp dropped and we were hit with 10 inches of snow. So instead we spent the day exploring the big town of Buena Vista and hit up the local pub and the hot springs, the kayak shop there is awesome; you can demo just about any boat on the market for $15.

We left Buena Vista and headed for Vail were we stayed for 3 nights in my buddy’s girlfriend’s condo, pretty sweet deal. I was able to kayak some on the creek right outside our door in Vail. The play wave that the Teva mountain games is held on was right beside our balcony, the water level was low but still fun. We had originally only planed on skiing for one day while we were out there, but since we had all the snow we decided to take advantage of it and skied for 3 days. Skiing out there is awesome; I think I have to put it right up there with kayaking on my list of favorite things to do now.

One of the guys on the trip had to leave early due to work so we took him to Denver to catch his flight as our last stop. We didn’t do anything outdoors in Denver, but we

did catch a Rockies game and go out, Denver is a pretty cool city.

All in all the trip was a blast, and I look forward to going back sometime in the near future. A mid summer trip out in late June mid July during the peak snow runoff would be awesome for kayaking there is tons of runs all over the place

Bardstown Receives Recycling Grant

From The Kentucky Standard

Bardstown will receive a grant for $172,564 to reduce the amount of solid waste going into landfills. It is one of 34 recycling and household hazardous waste grants offered by the state to expand recycling in Kentucky.
The grant is subject to formal acceptance from Bardstown and requires a 25 percent local match in the form of cash or “in kind” services, materials or equipment from the city.

The grant will provide Bardstown assistance in purchasing recycling trailers, a forklift, balers, cages, scales and advertising.
Assistant City Administrator Larry Green said Bardstown will meet the required match by in kind services such as labor by the city, county and Nelson County Industries. Advertising on WBRT, in The Kentucky Standard and on PLG-TV, who will assist in producing four television commercials, also is eligible as in kind services.

Bardstown Mayor Dick Heaton said he will sign necessary paperwork next week and Bardstown should receive the grant money by June 30.

The grant will allow the city to purchase five recycling trailers with 10 bins that could be assigned to different recyclable materials, Green said. Two trailers will be in Bardstown, possibly one downtown and the other in a shopping center. One trailer each will be in New Haven and Bloomfield. The final location of the fifth trailer is undecided, but could possibly be placed along KY 245 toward I-65. Green said one on KY 245 could offer residents in that area a more convenient drop-off location.

“This is a joint city, county and Communicare project,” Green said. “The county has agreed to transport the trailers in the county and the city has agreed to transport the trailers that is in the city to the Nelson County Industries location on Allison Avenue. What they will do [at Nelson County Industries] is take these recycled materials and collect them [and bale it into 500-800 pound bales]. When they get enough [bales], they will have them picked up by recyclers.”
The bales will be sold with proceeds benefiting Nelson County Industries, Green said, to offset its cost to pay employees who work there.

“We are excited about getting into a serious campaign to start recycling,” Green said. “We are going to try to convince people that recycling is a good thing for Bardstown and Nelson County and that we can do our part.”
Mayor Heaton said he has wanted a recycling program since being elected.

“[Recycling] is not normally a money-maker for governments, but it is the right thing to do environmentally,” Heaton said. “Many people in the community have been asking for it, and I think that is sort of where the council’s support came from.”
The county already has some curbside recycling in smaller communities and neighborhoods.

This is the second year the Recycling and Household Hazardous Waste Grant Program was offered. The Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet’s Division of Waste Management administers the grant.

Paddle Pickup 2008 Video

Song of the Moment : On Call

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3 brothers and their cousin make up this Tennesse rock band, Kings of Leon. There are many great tracks on this, their newest album, but ‘On Call’ stands out the most. A great river song, I think.

If you would like to help us pick the next song of the moment just leave your choice in the comments section below.

Paddle Pickup 2008

This year the Bardstown Boaters hosted their 4th Annual Paddle Pickup on the Beech Fork of the Salt River in Bardstown, KY. The Bardstown Boaters along with help from a total near 50 volunteers from across the state cleaned well over a ton of garbage from the Beech Fork. The section cleaned was from highway 49 to the Nelson County Fairgrounds.

The Paddle Pickup has now cleaned 13 miles of the Beech Fork in all, from Highway 605 in Manton to Highway 31E in Bardstown. The Bardstown Boaters are all ready looking forward to cleaning up more waste from our local waterways next year.

A very special thanks tp these people and organizations who make the Paddle Pickup such a huge success.

Mike Hammons & Central Kentucky Canoe and Kayak
DeanWatts & Nelson County Government
The Bardstown Rotary Club
Brad Hurst
Kenny Fogle & WBRT
David White
David Adams
Laura Blair (Newcomb Oil)
Jerry Boone & Boone’s Butcher Shop
Jennifer Waldron & 3D Graphics
Patrick Hayden & Keene’s Depot

Media: Pictures | Video

Salt River Paddle Battle

Registration still open!

The Paddle Battle on Salt River is an endurance canoe and kayak race geared to test paddlers' stamina and skill on a course between Taylorsville and Shepherdsville on the main stem of the river.

Beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 14th in Taylorsville, the race will continue for the next 24 hours until all paddlers end up at the Louisville South KOA campground, where free camping is made available for participants.

Paddlers in the open canoe and kayak class are expected to begin arriving at the finish line sometime before 7 p.m. Saturday, while those entering in stock divisions will spend their night at one of several designated camping stops along the river - finishing the course Sunday morning just before the awards banquet begins.

Getting off rain or shine, low or high-water, the event will be, without a doubt, it will be a challenge for all.

"There have been canoe races on the Salt before, but never seen anything like this," Hammons said. "This is a great opportunity for those wanting to explore the main stem who never have had the oomph or partner to do it alone. It's also great way to bring much-needed attention to one of the tri-county area's greatest resources."

Cost to enter the race is $30 and includes Sunday brunch, a t-shirt and a chance at winning prize awards for beating out the rest of the field. Those interested in participating need to pre-register with Mike Hammons by calling (502) 507-9364 or online at www.kycanoe.com.

Bardstown Boaters At It Again

From: The Kentucky Standard

By STAFF REPORT

This Saturday the Bardstown Boaters, a local whitewater paddling and water conservation group, will host its fourth annual “Paddle Pick up.”

Each year the group cleans up a different four-mile section of the Beech Fork River. This year the group will pickup between KY 49 and The Nelson County Fairgrounds. Those interested can meet at 9 a.m. at Keene’s Depot at 8 Old Bloomfield Pike. Canoes will be available to those who do not have their own kayak or canoe, provided by Central Kentucky Canoe and Kayak. A shuttle will take the cleanup crew to the put in, the event is expected to last until 3 - 4 p.m.

The Bardstown group strives to meet water conservation, sustainability, energy conservation, and habitat conservation goals in Nelson County.

The local initiative is to clean up local waterways and promote awareness that coincides with National River Cleanup, a year-long initiative that kicks off May 31- June 8.

In the past three years the Bardstown Boaters and other volunteers have cleaned four tons of garbage and more than 300 tires out of the Beech Fork River.

“People should come out to clean out local waterways,” and no experience is necessary, said Bardstown Boaters president, Spalding Hurst.

Those interested in learning more about white water, canoeing or kayaking should visit www.bardstownboaters.com.

Paddle Pickup This Saturday!

The Paddle Pickup is this Saturday, May 31st. Participants will meet at 9 a.m. Keene’s Depot at 108 Old Bloomfield Pike in downtown Bardstown. Boats will be provided by Central Kentucky Canoe and Kayak for those who do not have their own.

The Bardstown Boaters along with local Boy Scout Troops and members of the community will be paddling the Beech Fork in Nelson County and removing garbage from the waterway.

For more information visit the Paddle Pickup page of the website or visit the the forum. But what ever you do, just be sure to join us this Saturday.

Press: The News-Enterprise | American Rivers

Song of the Week : Freight Train

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I had to post this song this week after seeing Laura Veirs live in Louisville last Friday night. She played at the 930 Listening Room and she was great. I thought this track, Freight Train, was the the best from the night. Freight Train is originally by Elizabeth Cotten. I don't know which version is better.

If you would like to help us pick the next song of the week just leave your choice in the comments section below.

Get Ready to Rethink What It Means to Be Green

Wired magazine is running a very interesting article about re-thinking what needs to be done to reduce global warming. Below are 10 views on the new environmental approach.

For the entire article visit Wired.

1: Live in Cities
2: A/C Is OK
3: Organics Are Not The Answer
4: Farm the Forests
5: China Is the Solution
6: Accept Genetic Engineering
7: Carbon Trading Doesn't Work
8: Embrace Nuclear Power
9: Used Cars — Not Hybrids
10: Prepare for the Worst

2nd Annual Duck Race This Saturday

WBRT in Bardstown is holding a fundraiser to benefit Bardstown schools. They will be releasing up to 5000 rubber ducks on the Beech Fork and the winner will win $1000. You can get your own duck in the race for $5. Call WBRT at (502) 348-3943 for an entry.

The Bardstown Boaters will be helping out by wrangling in the ducks on the river. If you would like to help us out, the race is on Saturday, May 24th at 10 a.m. Meet at the Beech Fork off of New Haven road, Highway 31E in bardstown.

Post in the forum here if you plan to help.

Song of the Week : Heart In A Cage

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Do you like Rock? Do you like Bluegrass? How about the Strokes? And Nickle Creek? Well we do too. This is a cover song from Nickel Creek's Chris Thile of the track Heart in a Cage by The Strokes. It make s a perfect track for your next whitewater road trip.

Have a listen and download it.

And if you would like to help us pick the next song of the week just leave your choice in the comments section below.

Governor Approves $1,231,844 in Recreational Trails Grants

Gov. Steve Beshear, in conjunction with the Governor’s Office for Local Development (GOLD) and the Recreational Trails Advisory Board, has announced the approval of 25 Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grants for a total allocation of $1,231,844.

“I am pleased to approve these grants for projects which will continue to promote an active, outdoor lifestyle for families and individuals across the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “The Recreational Trails Program is essential for maintaining and expanding our state’s existing network of trails that cater to such a variety of interests and ages.”

The RTP is an assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Kentucky’s RTP is administered by GOLD and requires that applicants match the amount of funds requested to receive a 50% reimbursement on approved projects. Those eligible to apply are city and county governments, state and federal agencies, and non-profit organizations.

RTP grants may be used to provide assistance for acquisition of easements, development and/or maintenance of recreational trails and trailhead facilities for both motorized and non-motorized use. Examples of trail uses include hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, off-road motorcycling and all-terrain vehicle riding.

For a list a the projects receiving grants, visit the Commonwealth of Kentucky's website.

Body Found in Beech Fork River

From the Kentucky Standard

A 67-year-old Bardstown man was found dead in the Beech Fork River Tuesday. Authorities had searched for John Brantley Stephens, 5120 Springfield Road, since he was reported missing Sunday by his daughter.

He was last seen May 8, according to police.

At about 8 a.m. on Sunday, sheriff’s deputies found Stephens’ silver Dodge Dakota pickup truck stuck in the mud on Manton Road, according to police. Stephens was described as being in poor health, according to Gary Luce of Marion County EMS.

A search for Stephens ensued, centered near the Nelson/Washington county line, by units from the Bardstown Fire and Nelson County Sheriff’s departments and emergency personnel from Washington and Marion counties, who were providing mutual aid.

Stephens’ body was found several miles down river near KY 49 at about 11:40 a.m. by deputies searching the river.

The investigation is ongoing pending the medical examiner’s review.

Paddle Pickup Shirts

Here is the screen for the Paddle Pickup Shirts. We tend to keep these shirts a little old school. We don't know what color these shirts will be yet. Leave your choice for the color of the shirts in the comments below.

The Paddle Pickup will be on Saturday, May 31st. Meet at Keene's Depot at 9 a.m.

Shirts will be given away to the first 60 volunteers. See you at the Paddle Pickup!

Song of the Week : Evil Urges

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We are starting up a song of the week post here at the Bardstown Boaters website. These are songs that we are feeling for the moment and are good on and off the water. So load this one up for your next shuttle to the Rockcastle.

For the first week we are starting off with some local flavor. The brand new title track from the upcoming album, Evil Urges by My Morning Jacket.

Cinco De Elkhorn

The Bardstown Boaters were on the Elkhorn late Monday. The level was at the minimum 400 cfs, but it was still a good day to be on the water. Micahel and Zack headed up one crew, getting on a little earlier. Jay, Josh and Spalding were part of the second group down.

After scrambling around to borrow a helmet, Thanks to BWA's JBob for that, the group was ready for an easy paddle down.

The surfing wasn't all that great, mainly due to Angioplasty not being in. Looks like it is gone completely. The best bet for surfing at 400cfs is the very next rapid.

Old Tires, Where Do They Go?

Many have often wondered about what happens to the tires retrieved from the Paddle Pickup? Well now we know the entire life cycle of the these tires.

Tires are made at the factory. After they are done being raced with at the local speedway, they are conveniently pitched into the Beech Fork. Once a year the Paddle Pickup rolls around and local boaters not so conveniently retrieve them from the river. These tires are then taken to the Nelson County Landfill and separated from the other garbage. A company from Marion County then picks them up for a fee paid for by the Landfill. They are then recycled into either mulch or used as a supplement for burning coal which in turn powers the factory so it can produce some more tires.

Learn more by joining us at this years Paddle Pickup!

Paddle Pickup Meeting Place

This year's meeting place for the Paddle Pickup will be at Keen's Depot on Old Bloomfield Pike in Bardstown, Kentucky. We will meet at 9am. Patrick Hayden has graciously opened his doors to us as the jumping point for our annual river cleanup.

The Paddle Pickup is on Saturday May 31st. The Bardstown Boaters along with local Boy Scout Troops and members of the community will be paddling the Beech Fork in Nelson County and removing garbage from the waterway.

This is the 4th year for the Paddle Pickup. We receive support from Central Kentucky Canoe & Kayak, City of Bardstown, Nelson County Government and The Rotary Club.

The Bardstown Boaters hold the Paddle Pickup in conjunction with National River Cleanup Week. In the past the club has removed over 3 tons of waste from the river.

Pass around the Paddle Pickup flyer and join us on May 31st! For more information visit the Paddle Pickup webpage or talk to us in the forum.