An exceptional 2019 paddling season ends
This summer, we had a spectacular run of gorgeous Sundays with few weather related cancellations. On 29 September, 2019, the Dragons and community supporters put the boat to bed for the coming winter. Thank you to everyone who pitched in and made it easy. We wish everyone a safe and happy time until it’s again time to get on our beautiful Slocan Lake.
Garlic Festival paddle, September 8, 2019
The 27th Annual Hills Garlic Festival is a Slocan Valley highlight we look forward to each year. As usual, Dark Water Dragons added to the fun with a noon time paddle that drew people to the beach in warm weather under cloudy skies. New this year was our paddle to a routine, with mixed yet encouraging results.
The dragon boat team met at the marina at 11:30 AM, for warm up and boarding. The dragon boat exited the marina on schedule at noon, to entertain the lunch crowd on the beach. We were very proud to dress the dragon boat with its glorious head and tail.
All Dark Water Dragon members enjoyed the special paddle. Friends and family photographed and shared impressions. Thanks to the photographers, Jim Ball, Kathy Hartman’s anonymous friend, James Moore (video), and Linda Taylor.
sketch by Julie Black, Calgary
On 22 August, 2019, team members helped pull knapweed at the marina. This invasive species can be eradicated with a multi-year effort so we plan to continue pulling. After we filled many bags, Laurie Frankcom, CKISS Education Program Coordinator, gave us tips to keep Slocan Lake pristine.
Marilyn and Jim 
Sue filled a bag 
Four dogs supervised Wendy, Paula, Mara and Sue 
Deborah, Jim, Wendy, Paula, Marilyn, Sue, Mara & Buddy Boop (Tracy had to leave) 
Wendy disposed of the results 
Laurie celebrated our status as alert to the perils of invasive species 
CKISS.ca photo op
When the Red Rogue’s 26′ Voyageur canoe came to visit New Denver on 8 July, 2019, Barb, Gerry, Paula and Lorraine, all long-time Dark Water Dragon members, went for an evening paddle.
