WC133 NovDec 2023 - Magazine - Page 21
Paddle with Purpose
Whether we’re paddling, swimming, surfing, or even hiking along a
body of water, the universal need for reliable access to clean water
is something we can all agree on. Yet as of August 2023, hundreds of
Indigenous communities still live under long-term boil water advisories. To rectify this situation, we must honour traditional Indigenous
water laws and elevate the voices of Indigenous water keepers, who
are often women. Doing so not only fosters a healthier relationship
between humans and water but also takes meaningful strides
toward healing the wounds inflicted by colonial practices.
When I explore new paddling routes, I make a point of using Native-Land.ca to identify the traditional territories I’m traversing. There
are also several Indigenous-led initiatives, communities, and organizations focused on safeguarding not just water, but also air, land, and
living beings. Offering our support to these efforts is an impactful way
to contribute to the conversation.
adventure-seekers who extend their aquatic pursuits beyond
September? From cold-water paddlers to open-water swimmers
and cold plunge aficionados, many are navigating these waters
without the safeguard of up-to-date quality data.
Winter’s chill
Paddling in open water while it snows is a magical experience,
with fewer boats and activity than you’d see in warmer months.
Heading out on the rare flat and calm days in the winter wearing layers of merino wool underneath my drysuit, and having
a lifejacket and ankle leash securely fastened, I can confidently
explore what the waters have to offer. I watch for moving ice to
ensure it does not close off my path back to shore (definitely a
winter consideration!) and am prepared with an insulated bottle
of warm water to de-ice my board and gear, just in case.
As much as I love getting out on the water during the colder
months, it is always tinged with concern. It’s somewhat disconcerting that open water is even accessible during what should
be the thick of winter. Declining ice cover on the Great Lakes,
which has reached historic lows in recent years, is an alarming
indicator of climate change. Less ice cover has ripple effects—like
accelerated coastal erosion and adverse impacts on marine ecosystems, including spawning habitats for fish and water quality.
Thinking about our role in this, individual actions matter
even in winter. For instance, excessive use of salt on driveways
WAT E R C A N A D A . N E T
and walkways can contribute to increased salinity in our water
bodies. After my winter paddling sessions, I make it a point to
thoroughly rinse my board and gear—not just to prevent the
spread of invasive species, which are still a problem in the colder
months, but also to remove the salty residue, much of which can
be attributed to winter road salting practices.
When ice does form on the water, it serves as a stark reminder
of another issue: the visible accumulation of litter and microplastics resting on the frozen surface. These pollutants can have
devastating effects on aquatic life and ultimately contribute to
the larger issue of water pollution.
Yet even in winter, there’s a sense of community. Seeing other
“water people” gearing up, often in full wetsuits, to catch some
waves in a blizzard is nothing short of exhilarating. Organizations
like the Lake Surfistas, an all-women surf and SUP crew, serve
as a wonderful testament to a shared respect and passion for
preserving our invaluable freshwater resources.
In every season, the Great Lakes offer their own unique set
of rewards and challenges for paddlers, surfers, and swimmers
alike. From the sunny allure of summer to the haunting quiet of
winter, each period brings not just new opportunities to play, but
also pressing reasons for vigilance and responsibility.
If you’re considering extending your water activities beyond
summer, you’re in good company! Community groups are out
there, eager to help you explore safely and responsibly, no matter
your preferred activity. Remember, we’re not just individual surfers, paddlers, or swimmers: we’re stewards of these waters. As you
paddle through each season, use the experience as an opportunity
to deepen your understanding of these vital ecosystems. After
all, safeguarding our freshwater isn’t just a summer job: it’s a
year-round commitment. And by becoming active participants in
their preservation, we can ensure they remain vibrant and healthy
for generations to come!
For further reading visit www.watercanada.net/nd23resources/
WATER C AN ADA • NOV EMBER/ DECEMBER 2023
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