Comments and Discussion
Narrative: Initially over-subscribed, but back by popular demand. Come out for an early season exploration of Steelman and Sturgeon Lake on Sauvie Island at high water. The Westside Management Unit of Sauvie Island officially opened April 16, and we'll view Eagles, Hawks, Herons, waterfowl, and possibly even get boat slapped by a carp! We'll paddle from Steelman Lake through the trees, across Sturgeon Lake, and into the Gilbert River. Lunch will be on any available dry spot around Noon. We'll return to the Steelman Lake put in by 4:00 PM. This will be a medium paced trip for viewing wildlife and enjoying the scenery. We will be practicing the 4P Principle - Please Plan to be a POD Participant!
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area Parking Permits are REQUIRED, $10 daily or $30 for an Annual Pass. Available at the Cracker Barrel Store and wherever fishing licenses are sold. Meet at 8:15 AM and we will leave the parking lot next to the Cracker Barrel store promptly at 8:30 to caravan out to the Steelman Lake put in. Bring your wheels, plenty of water, and tow belt if you have them. Please Note: Little McNary Lake and the Gilbert River on the Eastside Unit will not open until May 1st. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/visitors/sauvie_island/ Meeting Time: 8:15:00 AM Launch Time: 10:00:00 AM Type of activity: Paddle Trip Put in: Steelman Lake Take out: Same Route Alternative for bad weather: Stay on Steelman and/or explore shoreline of Sturgeon. If a tornado warning is issued the trip will be canceled. Required equipment: Minimum Immersion protection: Shorty wetsuit Primary Organizer: Brad Sheehan Assistant Organizer(s): Chris Mayou Has organizer paddled here before? Yes Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before? Yes Organizer's first aid and CPR current? Yes First Aid /CPR Person: Chris Mayou Maximum number of paddlers: 8 I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy: Yes Estimated Air Temperature: 52 AM, High of 71 Estimated Water Temperature: 57 Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch): 6 hours Tide times & heights: 2018/04/27 Fri 11:11 AM 0.30 L This is a Lake with tidal influence. 3:38 PM 2.25 H Current information: Less than 2 knots Hazards: Wind strength: Level 1: 0-7 knots (8 mph) Swell/Surf size: Level 1: Under 1' waves, no breaking waves Sea state: Level 1: Waves up to the deck seam; water glassy to rippled, no whitecaps Landing types: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees Currents: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half Total distance: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles Open crossing: Level 2: Less than 1 mile Paddling Environment: Overall rating: Level 2 Rating Comments: In calm weather this could be considered a longer Level 1 trip, however the wind and open crossings push this to a Level 2.