Long time OOPS member, Mel Wishan, passed away on October 5, 2024. Mel contributed greatly to the club as an Instructor, Trip Organizer and previous board member. He joined OOPS in 2013 and led many classes and trips, always encouraging people to learn and progress. Mel was an ACA Level 3 paddler and ACA Level 2 Instructor. Join us on November 1st to remember and honor Mel.
In his honor, we will be holding a paddle and potluck. You can participate in the paddle, or the potluck, or both. You choose when you register.
Registration for the potluck will close on October 28th.
Paddle
The paddle will meet at Willamette Park (Bernert Landing) at 9:00 am, we'll be on the water at 9:30 am. We will paddle up to the Narrows to enjoy the scenery, then turn around and return to Willamette Park. Our paddle will be accompanied by Mel's "Geardoc" kayak. 
After the paddle (around noon) OOPS will sponsor a potluck in the park.
See more details about the paddle below.
Potluck
Starting at noon or when the paddlers return, OOPS will provide grilled salmon for all potluck attendees. Please bring a side dish or dessert. Please bring your own (non-alcoholic) drink. Registration for the potluck will close on October 28th.
Paddle Details
Meeting Time: 9:00:00 AM
Launch Time: 9:30:00 AM
Put in: 1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068
Take out: 1100 12th St, West Linn, OR 97068
Route Alternative for bad weather: Endurance paddle hugging west bank, cancel
Minimum Immersion protection: Drysuit
Primary Organizer: Mark Niemann-Ross
First Aid /CPR Person: Mark Niemann-Ross
Estimated Air Temperature: 59 - 60 °F
Estimated Water Temperature: 59 °F
Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch): 3 - 4 hrs depending on route
Current information: Mild - 1kt
Hazards:
Wind strength: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle
Swell/Surf size: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves
Sea state: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps
Landing types: Level 1: Frequent easy landing opportunities including gently sloping, sand, gravel or grass
Currents: Level 1: None or mild (less than 1 knot)
Total distance: Level 1: Up to 6 miles
Open crossing: Level 1: Less than 0.5 miles
Paddling Environment:
Overall rating: Level 2
