Join the Commodore and other MCYC veterans as we kick off the first public stream adventure of 2020.
Outdoor recreation is a great way to eliminate stress (and cabin fever). New studies are showing that outdoor activities are relatively safe as we begin to re-engage in out of the home activities during these times of COVID19. Paddling on a guided trip with the Mill Creek Yacht Club (MCYC) has always been the best way to experience Mill Creek wonders while learning about our long-abused but surprisingly resurgent urban stream. Like everything else, upcoming Urban Stream Adventures may look a little different than those of the past. Our June 2020 stream adventure will begin and end in the same location to eliminate the need for shuttling, which turns out to be one of the major obstacles of paddling and complying with the safety directives provided by the State of Ohio. The adventure launches at the Mill Creek Barrier Dam and heads upstream for a visit to the waterfall at Greater Cincinnati Metropolitan Sewer District's recent project in Lower Price Hill called Lick Run.
Registration for the paddle is open now through noon on Thursday, June 18th, or until all available seats have been reserved. Tickets are $25. Your registration fee supports the work done by the Mill Creek Alliance to champion the resurgence of the Mill Creek.
Paddlers will receive specific guidelines in a confirmation email about COVID19 safety precautions required for this trip. If you cannot join us for this paddle, check back for opportunities to hit the water with us again later in the season.
If you have questions, contact the Yacht Club at millcreekyachtclub@gmail.com.
Important Safety Information
Although we have never experienced health issues, in full disclosure, Ohio EPA recommends no contact with waters of the Mill Creek because it can have high levels of fecal coliform bacteria and other pathogens from time to time, especially within 48 to 72 hours of a rainstorm heavy enough to cause combined sewer overflows.
It is your personal choice on whether to participate, based largely on the strength of your immune system and your willingness to take a calculated risk. If you have an open cut or weakened immunities, you should not go. You should be 18 or older to be on the water with us. FYI, the current COVID19 situation adds another layer of risk that you take full responsibility for.
You will need to be sure-footed in some places. Be ready to climb out of the canoe to get past shallow spots and low-head dams. Potential safety hazards include sudden drop-offs, hidden holes, foot entrapments, slippery algae, submerged obstacles, jagged objects and sealed bottles with volatile methadone ingredients. Germicidal gel and a simple first-aid kit will be available.