ACA L4 Swiftwater Rescue Skills Course
2026-03-13 - 2026-03-15 | Silver Mines Campground, Highway D, Ironton, MO, 63650, United States
The Swiftwater Rescue workshop teaches participants to recognize and avoid common river hazards, execute self-rescue techniques, and perform rescue techniques for paddlers in distress. Emphasis is placed both on personal safety and on simple, commonly used skills. Fundamental and more advanced techniques for dealing with hazards that carry greater risks for both victim and rescuer, such as strainers, rescue vest applications, entrapments, and pins, are practiced. Scenarios will provide participants with an opportunity to practice their skills both individually and within a team/group context.
Cost: $250 per participant.
Members of the Missouri Whitewater Association are eligible for reimbursement after required volunteer activity.
Taught by Bill Miles from Earth’s Classroom.
Visit Earth’s Classroom to register.

Open Pool Sessions: Pallotine Center
2026-03-17 19:15 - 20:45, 2026-03-24 19:15 - 20:45 (America/Chicago) | PALLOTTINE RENEWAL CENTER, 15270 Old Halls Ferry, Florissant, MO, 63034, United States
Open Pool Kayak Practice Sessions – MWA & StL Team River Runner collaboration.
All participants need to pre-register for each session and sign a TRR 2026 waiver. Details provided to registrants.
Open to first people registered each week, until we hit the 15 boat capacity. Non-boater volunteers are welcome
Join us once or weekly.
Costs:

Free for Active ACA-Certified Instructors L2+, Veterans and Active Military
$10 for Active MWA members; guests are welcome but will be encouraged to join the MWA

Cancellation 48 hours in advance required.
Bring your own CLEAN gear OR TRR can provide a boat & gear for you (arrive at least 15 minutes early for boat fitting).
Point of Contact (POC) = Kyu Reed <kylereed88@gmail.com>, 314-761-7899.
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See TRR’s National Code of Conduct & Alcohol Policy.
Team River Runner Mission: To provide all veterans and their families an opportunity to find health, healing, community purpose, and new challenges through adventure and adaptive paddle sports!

Race set up & slalom clinic (for volunteers)
2026-03-21 10:00 - 14:00 | Silver Mines Campground, Highway D, Ironton, MO, 63650, United States
Help “run wires” for the 59th Annual Missouri Whitewater Championships (MWC)! We will also paddle, spend time at the group campground, camp, and paddle the next day—all with your paddling pals. Saturday morning March 21, please check in (sign a 2026 waiver) at 10:00 at the Millstream Gardens pavilion to string up the slalom gate wires and/or do the slalom practice. No prior experience necessary with wires nor boating.

Bring wire cutters, pliers, a pocket knife, safety glasses, and leather gloves. If you have a pruner handy, please bring that as well. Wear sturdy shoes for being on the rocks. Plan to wear bright clothes so you are easily seen across the river.

If you are helping for the first time, we will coach you. We are grateful for your help!
If you are a returning helper and would like to work on river right or ferry string across the river, please let the course designers (below) know ahead of time.

** Paddle clinic for volunteers on four or five gates. After we finish set up, Joe Sartori will offer a free session for those who helped. It will be after we grab lunch, hopefully around 1:00 pm

Evening gathering at the Silvermines Group Campground with complimentary camping and beer provided (age 21+) for all who helped.

Check out this MWC primer: https://vimeo.com/124411745, shot and edited by our very own John Neibling.

Also, if you are interested in being a Course Designer for future races (no prior slalom experience required), please let the race directors know. Someone to shadow the current designers would be great. Please let us know if you have any questions. THANK YOU in advance!
Questions: <racedirector@missouriwhitewater.org>

Missouri Paddling Coalition Al-Pint Night featuring MWC
2026-03-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Alpine Shop – Kirkwood, 440 N Kirkwood Rd, Kirkwood, MO, 63122, United States
Join the Missouri Paddling Coalition on Tuesday, March 24, 6-8pm, at Alpine Shop Kirkwood for Al-Pint Night. Al-Pint Nights are a monthly happy hour series where good beer meets good causes. For $10, you receive a limited-edition Alpine Shop pint glass and two pours from 4 Hands Brewing Company. Non-alcoholic options are always available. All proceeds from the evening go directly back to that night’s featured cause. We’ll serve up brews and information about all things paddling in Missouri, including a guest speaker from the Missouri Whitewater Association talking about the upcoming Missouri Whitewater Championships, March 27 – 28 on the St. Francis River.

Whitewater Kayaking Youth 3 Week Course
2026-03-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Lindbergh High School Pool, 5000 Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63126, United States
Whitewater Kayaking is wild! Come discover this fun and exciting sport! Enjoy games to start building your skills and strength to help start kayaking. Learn basic paddle strokes, boat balance, boat entry/exit, and intro to river running skills/communication. Boats and paddles are included. No additional equipment needed. This course is taught by instructors with Missouri Whitewater Association. You must be comfortable swimming and treading in deep water, as the pool depth is 7 feet. *Please note, adults must have a child enrolled in the class to register. This session of the Course is on Tuesdays from 6:45-8:15 on 03/24, 03/31 and 04/07.

59th Annual Missouri Whitewater Championships
2026-03-27 - 2026-03-29 | Millstream Gardens, Ironton, MO, 63650, United States
Learn more at our official race page

MWA Kayak Instructor Certification, blended ACA L3 & L4 course
2026-04-08 - 2026-04-12 | Cinco De Mayo Campground, 1042 Hwy H, Farmington, MO, 63640, United States
ACA L-3 and L-4 Whitewater Kayak Instructor Course

April 8-12, 2026

Location – St Francis River, MO
Host- Missouri Whitewater Association
Course fee- $650.00

Contact – Tom Burroughs ACA Whitewater Kayak ITE email at- Swiftwaterrescue@gmail.com

Jojo Newbold about the campground & meal plan (see below) <FlyAKayak@outlook.com> 573-326-9008.
Sally Haywood if you are connected to Team River Runner.

Want to become a Certified Kayak Instructor through the most recognized Instructor Certification organization in Paddlesports? Founded in 1880, the ACA is the gold standard of instruction methods and techniques for paddlesports training. Polish your kayaking technique as you learn experientially based methods of teaching others quickly and effectively. This course is not a “learn to paddle” course. It is designed to help the experienced river paddler learn to design and run effective courses, and unravel the mysteries of teaching others! Your days will consist of time on the water practicing techniques and teaching methods, and at our land classroom working on course design, administrative skills, presentation methods and video review and evaluation.

As an ACA Instructor Trainer/Educator in Whitewater Kayaking, Swiftwater Rescue and Whitewater Rafting, my goal is to help you meet your potential, which is often far greater than you realize! Over the past 27 years of teaching and guiding on rivers in the US and abroad, I have discovered numerous effective ways to help my students advance and learn, and I look forward to bringing that to Missouri’s whitewater paddlers!

Wed am – Sunday pm. Registration through Ozark Safety and Rescue Educators (OSRA) and taught by Tom Burroughs.

For most everyone, Standard (NON- TRR) registration for ACA L-3/4 Kayak Instructor Candidate.
Team River Runner (TRR) veteran / service member registration for ACA L-3/4 Kayak Instructor Candidate registration.

Post-registration, please study the letter the instructor will send you. It will have pre-course assignments in it and a gear list.
This five-day (40-hour min) course prepares participants to teach and model the paddling skills, technical knowledge, rescue ability, teaching ability, group management, and interpersonal skills needed to teach river or whitewater kayaking. L3/4 students say that their kayaking skills are greatly elevated by the ability to demonstrate and instruct.
Course Prerequisites – the skills described in the ACA Level 3 & 4 Kayaking Skills Assessment, which include the following (note: beginning in 2027, ACA will require that an instructor have gained and taught at an L3 level prior to pursuing an L4 certification):
1. A reliable river roll that works in Class II/III water;
2. Completion of (a) the appropriate level kayaking skills course or equivalent kayak skill; AND (b) assessment by an ACA L3 or L4 instructor using the following list (instructor credentials matching the level the student candidate is pursuing). See https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8m9hBZCcRAM&list=PLRPQF2MRPvGj6pY6gYk7LX4sv7aeFo1xx&index=14&pp=iAQB :

Level 3: River Kayaking
Level 4: Whitewater Kayaking

If your assessment instructor, who is currently ACA credentialed, indicates you “need more practice” on a skill, you can practice. Then you need to have an ACA instructor re-assess that skill and sign off as “Pass” on all skills PRIOR to class.The teaching venue will be Missouri’s St. Francis River. L3 candidates have the option to portage any rapids of the lower St Francis River beyond their ability.
3. Students of an ACA class must be current members of the ACA in advance of the course, https://americancanoe.org/join-the-aca/
4. Completion of an ACA Swiftwater Rescue (SWR) class is strongly suggested, but not required.
See Course Curriculum – ACA (americancanoe.org), “River Kayaking” for the above Assessments, Instructor Criteria, and sample skills course content that successful L3/L4 instructors will be prepared to teach.
Full refunds will be issued by the instructor in the event of course cancellation.
Location: The course will be based out of Cinco de Mayo Campground – Riverside RV Park in Farmington and the St Francis River, Millstream Gardens. The campground can offer accommodations and a meal plan, which you arrange directly with them.
Taught by Tom Burroughs, SwiftwaterRescue@gmail.com, 479-595-1655 (credentials below). Working with Tom Burroughs to teach this program, assisted by Glenn Harman, L4-WWK Instructor Trainer, ACA L4 Whitewater Kayak and Canoe Instructor, as well as an L4 Swiftwater Instructor. Glenn has worked for the State of Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for more than 18 years, where he leads DNR’s paddling instructional programs. Glenn is an avid paddler, traveling all over the country to paddle class 3 and 4 whitewater rivers such as the Ocoee and Arkansas rivers in Tennessee and Colorado. Glenn has also traveled out of the US to paddle the Rio Clara River in Chile and the Ottawa River in Canada. Glenn is passionate about kayak instruction and river safety. He feels that the key to safe and enjoyable whitewater kayaking is knowledge of the river and paddling skill.
Cost: $650. Minimum registrants 4 (for course to happen); Maximum 10.
See MWA Training Reimbursement Policy for MWA members. MWA reimburses members for certain trainings after completion of an MWA volunteer commitment. You need to fill out a web-based reimbursement request after you volunteer. If you need a scholarship to participate in this course, please communicate with an MWA Board member. MWA is developing a scholarship policy.

Taught by Tom Burroughs, SwiftwaterRescue@gmail.com, 479-595-1655
ACA Safety and Rescue Committee Chair
ACA L-5 Advanced Swiftwater Rescue Instructor Trainer Educator
ACA L-4 Whitewater Kayak Instructor Trainer EducatorACA L-4 Whitewater Rafting Instructor Trainer
2015 ACA “Excellence in Instruction” National Award Recipient
ITRA Level 3V Swiftwater Rescue Instructor
NREMT/EMT-W/MPIC – Wilderness Medicine Instructor
Team Leader- Washington CO AR Search and Rescue teamDirector, Ozark Safety and Rescue Educators / Clear Creek Paddlesports
Member- Wilderness Medical Society

TSRA Rendezvous
2026-04-08 - 2026-04-12 | TSRA – Camp Nakanawa, 1084 Camp Nakanawa Rd, Crossville, TN, 38571, United States
Every year at least 100 or so people from all around the country, along with a group of people from MWA, descend on Camp Nakinawa, in the Cumberland Plateau in Eastern Tennessee. There are some pretty fantastic rivers in this area, like the Big South Fork, the Emory and Obed Rivers. This is an event similar to Week of Rivers. Every morning, paddlers gather in the Wigwam to learn about the day’s paddling events and sign up for trips. They have something for everyone including non-boater activities, like hiking. Located at a kids Summer Camp you can stay in a cabin or you can camp. This is a pretty drafty camp so bring plenty of warm clothes. Luckily the fire in the Wigwam is always roaring and there are lot’s of chairs. There is a silent auction and a live auction. Usually a movie night about paddling or conservation. They always have a beer sponsor and it is just a fun, lively event! Sign up between now and March 22nd to guarantee a tee shirt, cabin and meal plan! I hope to see a lot of Missourians there!
This is where you can get all the details and sign up https://paddletsra.org/event-6492996
I have gone the last two years and will go again in 2026. My experiences at TSRA Rendezvous has made me a much better paddler. Make sure to join the TSRA Paddler Chat. Also, Boyd Ruppelt is a Pro who does a Silent Auction for a lesson and he is an excellent instructor. I highly recommend taking his lesson. He usually announces it over their Facebook Group.
Contact me Russ Aagaard with any questions floatdirector@missouriwhitewater.org

Try Whitewater Kayaking - Youth Intro Class!
2026-04-12 15:00 - 16:30, 2026-05-03 15:00 - 16:30 | Mehlville Senior High Pool, 3200 Lemay Ferry Rd., St. Louis, MO, 63125, United States
Come See Why There is SO Much Excitement For Whitewater Kayaking!

There will be games, skills, and FUN while you are introduced to some of the basics of Paddling a WHITEWATER Kayak.

No Experience Necessary – Must be able to swim 25 yards and tread water unassisted. Age 7+

Parents must be present for the entire class duration.

Wednesday night Weekly Moving Water Training
2026-04-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Meramac River at 141 – Arnold Grove Trailhead, 38.547659, -90.495046, Valley Park, MO, United States
Wednesday’s Moving Water Practice on the Meramec River. These MWA’s sessions run every Wednesday rain or shine (unless there’s severe weather), April 15 through July 29. If the primary instructor, Joe Sartori, is unavailable, another ACA instructor will lead. (Keep an eye on this FB page for weekly updates.) Other ACA instructors and experienced volunteers will be there to help (more welcome!). No need to pre-register. RSVP is appreciated.
Where: Meet at Meramec Greenway Trailhead: Meramec Landing Park Boat Ramp. At 6:00 we will hit the water and paddle until 7:30 pm (where we met in 2025).
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FORMAT WILL BE DIFFERENT THAN YEARS PAST DUE TO THE DIFFERENT VENUE AND LACK OF STILL WATER.
Sessions are with approval from the City of Valley Park. Come once or every week.

You must come with all of your own whitewater paddling gear including a whitewater boat, helmet, Lifejacket (PFD), paddle and air bags. A spray skirt if you plan to use one.
Each session, you must check in with the primary instructor before getting on the water.
We will take as many participants as we have instructors and support / safety boaters.
If you are new to the primary instructor, be prepared to wet exit or attest to your wet exit skills.

If you are with Team River Runner and want TRR to bring you gear, you must contact them by the Tuesday night prior, stltrr@teamriverrunner.org. If you request gear and “no show,” TRR will charge you $10 for the inconvenience.
Fees: You must either (A) be an ACA Member to participate (join here https://americancanoe.org/); or (B) be a TRR-affiliated Veteran/Service member who has signed TRR’s 2026 Waiver. Otherwise, there is no charge for this event. We encourage you to join the MWA as your membership helps sustain our programs.
Waiver: Before you participate, everyone must sign the 2026 Annual MWA Waiver. We will not have paper waivers at the river. Sign the waiver once and you are good for all of our Wednesday sessions. If you already signed the 2026 Annual MWA Waiver as an ACA Member for the Missouri Whitewater Championship Races or the MWA Clinic, you are all set!
Details: We will warm up with some sweep and forward stroke progressions, a little bow draw work, and then blending strokes. Then practice peel-outs, ferries, and eddy turns. Beginners welcome. If you are new to whitewater kayaking and have your sights set on the MWA clinic, this is perfect for you. If you are not new to kayaking, these sessions can help you strengthen and refine your skills.
ACA Instructors, let Joe know if you’re willing to teach a skill or an evening session. Joe is a superb instructor and can give you feedback (afterward) as you refine your teaching.
Questions: Joe Sartori <paddlenut99@gmail.com> {or CathyMcCredie <Cmccredie@charter.net>}

MWA Whitewater Clinic 2026
2026-04-24 08:00 - 2026-04-26 16:00 | Silver Mines Campground, Highway D, Ironton, MO, 63650, United States
See details here: Beginner/Intermediate Whitewater Clinic – Missouri Whitewater Association
Registration opens 2/1/26.

Arkansas Canoe Club’s annual School of Whitewater Paddling
2026-05-01 14:00 - 2026-05-03 17:00 | The Mulberry River, based at Turner Bend’s Round the Bend campground, 35.657634, -93.829103, Ozark, AR, 72949, United States
Excellent paddling instruction, at many levels. Classes are divided into Whitewater Kayak, Solo Whitewater Canoe, Tandem Whitewater Canoe, Swiftwater Rescue, and Standup Paddleboard.
Registration opens March 1st and often fills up. See link, School of Whitewater Paddling — Arkansas Canoe Club.

This annual event is always the weekend that includes the 1st Sunday of May, on the Mulberry River. In early May, the water is still quite chilly, and the weather can be very unpredictable. For Whitewater School, it’s important to have layers and gear that can keep you warm.

All participants MUST have a whitewater kayak or canoe to participate, or a Stand Up Paddling Board for a SUP class.

The Mulberry River, particularly at higher flows, will offer more rapids and challenging conditions to hone skills.

Whitewater School is a larger social event with a somewhat more “festive” atmosphere.

Updates will also be posted to the ACC Facebook page. If you have other questions, contact the School Director.
Please let the School Director know if you would be willing to volunteer as an instructor, assistant instructor, or support boater. This is a great way to keep up your instruction skills! Note: Family members will not be put in the same group.

MRWTA Kayak ACA L2 Skills Clinic
2026-05-02 08:30 - 2026-05-03 17:00 | Ellis Bay at Riverlands, 301 Riverlands Way, West Alton, 63386, United States
ACA Level 2, Essentials of River Kayaking (ERK) Skills Clinic, Open to ALL skill levels!
Look for updates here, ACA Level 2, Essentials of River Kayaking (ERK) Skills Clinic – Mississippi River Water Trail
Saturday, May 2nd and Sunday, May 3rd, from 8:30-5pm each day.
$100/person for the clinic
+$25 for a skills assessment (pre-requisite for an L2 kayak instructor course).
Whether you are a complete novice, you are a long-time paddler with no formal training, you are planning to become a Level 2 instructor, or you wish to refine your paddling skills– Level 2 River Kayaking is the class for you!
This 2-day clinic covers all that you need to know to safely paddle rivers in MO and IL, including the big rivers. For course curriculum details, please follow our link to the American Canoe Association website.
https://americancanoe.notion.site/Level-2-Essentials-of-River-Kayaking-Skills-Course-a4db7942476946bfb80020a3114ffc08
If you are preparing for the Instructor Trainer Certification, this course (with assessment), will satisfy the pre-requisite of an assessment course.
This clinic has both classroom and water components! Come prepared to get wet both days! The first day we will be in the calm backwaters of Ellis Bay at Riverlands. Day 2 will include moving water clinic time on a river with suitable conditions that weekend.
Please contact board@mississippiriverwatertrail.org if you would like to participate.

May General Meeting
2026-05-12 19:00 - 20:30 | MO
Our bi-monthly members update! Join us to learn about our upcoming events and get a quick report from each of our committees: Bylaws, Clinic, Conservation, Finance, Race, Safety/Training and Youth.

Wednesday Night Moving Water exercise
2026-05-20 18:00 - 19:30 | Meramac River at 141 – Arnold Grove Trailhead, 38.547659, -90.495046, Valley Park, MO, United States
6-7:30 pm, through July 29, Meramec River at 141, Valley Park. This will be paddling as a group of common adventurers. No formal instruction will be provided. Confirm details in the title link.
Check MWA FaceBook page.
We have been unable to get permission from Valley Park for a class and will look at alternatives.
Contact Joe Sartori <paddlenut99@gmail.com>

Veterans' Camp at Perre Marquette - TRR Central Region & Team Red, White, & Blue
2026-05-22 14:00 - 2026-05-25 11:30 | Perre Marquette State Park, 13112 Visitor Center Lane, Grafton, IL, 62037, United States
WHO: Veterans, their friends & family (age 10+), and civilian volunteers
WHAT: Camp, hike, and paddle
WHEN: 22-25 May 2026
WHERE: Pere Marquette State Park, Duncan Hill Rd, Grafton, IL 62037 – Duncan Hill Group Campground
Registration Deadline: 25 April 2026
Organized by TRR Central Region & Team Red, White, & Blue

Join Memorial Day Weekend for camaraderie and challenge, camping, hiking, kayaking, and more. We will have games, prizes, and raffles, which will include limited horseback riding.
Free for Veterans with a refundable registration fee. Non-refundable for any non-Veteran companions, including children over 10. $50 per person due at registration.
Open to all skill levels. We will have lake paddles, which will be relaxing and an excellent introduction to paddling. We will also have moving water river kayaking. We will have experienced kayakers from Team River Runner (TRR), Mississippi River Water Trail Association (MRWTA), the Alpine Shop, St. Louis Canoe & Kayak Club (SLCKC), and the Missouri Whitewater Association (MWA). We will have a finite number of kayaks and gear (life jackets, paddles), so requests are first-come. Please bring your own paddling gear if you have some.
Pere Marquette is offering us free camping at the group site. Cabins and a room in the lodge are available to rent (arrange that on your own). Simple meals will be provided.

Current draft schedule:

Fri., May 22nd: Arrive and set up camp. Afternoon hike up to McAdams Peak with views of the Illinois River valley and into Calhoun County.
Sat., May 23rd: We will split into groups. Some will do an all day paddle on the Illinois River. Some can paddle on Lower Stump Lake.
Sun., May 24th: We will split into groups. Some will paddle on Silver Lake. Others will hike. Or, kick back and rest at the park / Lodge / Visitors Center/Water Front.
Mon., May 25th: Relax. Pack up and leave

Link here for more info and to register. Pere Marquette Veterans’ Camp Flier.
Volunteers needed! Will need people to act as greeters, meal leaders, managers on duty for different activities (eg, for those who do not want to hike or paddle), moving boats for those who cannot, other activities, eg: lead yoga / meditation / thai chi/ stretching / lawn games / evening bonfire, break down, and/or other things. Let us know when you would be available and how you might like to help. THANK YOU!

Point of Contact (POC): HD Key, hd.key@teamriverrunner.org, 636-706-4254

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Participants in TRR events need to electronically sign a 2026 National TRR Waiver. See TRR’s National Code of Conduct & Alcohol Policy.
Team River Runner Mission: To provide all veterans and their families an opportunity to find health, healing, community purpose, and new challenges through adventure and adaptive paddle sports!

Kayak Instructor Certification, ACA L2 course
2026-05-28 08:00 - 2026-05-30 17:30 | National Great Rivers Museum, 2 Lock And Dam Way, East Alton, IL, 62024, United States
Details here… ACA Level 2 Essentials of River Kayaking (ERK) Instructor Certification with Melissa Sauter & Tom Burroughs – Mississippi River Water Trail
Thursday am – Saturday pm, 3 full days, taught by Melissa Sauter & Tom Burroughs, sponsored by the Mississippi River Water Trails Association (MRWTA),
Are you proficient with ACA Level Two River Kayaking Skills and now ready to learn how to teach these skills to others after a skills assessment? This 3-day course will focus on requirements and practice to be a skilled kayak instructor. Be prepared to get wet as portions of this course will take place on the calm backwaters of the Mississippi River and possibly in the current of the Meramec River.
Boats and equipment are available for use during this course.
This class is open to the general public, as well as partner agencies and clubs. Registration with ACA and SEIC is required before starting the course.

his class is open to the general public as well as partner agencies and clubs. Registration with ACA and SEIC required before starting the course.
To register for ACA membership:
https://americancanoe.org/join-the-aca/

To register for the certification course:
https://forms.gle/qZVYQ5pJBxAfrQf68

Please review this link for river kayaking Instructor Criteria.
https://americancanoe.notion.site/Level-2-Essentials-of-River-Kayaking-Instructor-Criteria-d1974859c6cf455ea35eaa7d1d77288b

Cost: $450/person

This course prepares participants to be able to teach and model the paddling skills, technical knowledge, rescue ability, teaching ability, group management, and interpersonal skills needed to teach river kayaking. L2 students say that their kayaking skills are elevated by the ability to demonstrate and instruct. Certification is not guaranteed and is at the sole discretion of Tom Burroughs, the instructor.

**An assessment by a Level 2 ACA Kayak Instructor can be scheduled in advance of the event by contacting board@mississippiriverwatertrail.org.
Course Prerequisites –Be “signed off” as being able to demonstrate the skills described in the ACA Level 2 Kayaking Skills Assessment; See L2_ERK_Assessment.pdf (americancanoe.org)

The MRWTA is holding an ACA L2 Skills Clinic with Assessment May 2 & 3 for a reduced rate for those who plan to take the ACA Level 2 ERK Certification Course.

See Course Curriculum – ACA (americancanoe.org), “Essentials of River Kayaking” for the above Assessments, Instructor Criteria, and sample skills course content that successful L2 instructors will be prepared to teach.
Full refunds will be issued by the instructor in the event of course cancellation. If a student needs to cancel after registering, they are requested to find an eligible replacement and negotiate reimbursement with them.
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See MWA Training Reimbursement Policy for MWA members. MWA reimburses members for certain trainings after completion of an MWA volunteer commitment. You need to fill out a web-based reimbursement request after you volunteer. If you need a scholarship to participate in this course, please communicate with an MWA Board member. MWA is developing a scholarship policy.
For military service members or veterans, Team River Runner (TRR) has a grant that will enable them to reimburse you after the successful completion of this course. If interested, please contact Devin Gates, the StL TRR Chapter Coordinator, at stltrr@teamriverrunner.org or( 314) 904-6443 in advance of the course. The expectation is that you would use your new skills as a future volunteer with TRR.

MWA Spring River Trip
2026-05-29 - 2026-05-31 | Spring River Oak Campground, 1868 River Oaks Trail, Mammoth Spring, AR, 72554, United States
Get ready for a great weekend on the Spring River in Hardy, Arkansas! This beautiful, spring‑fed river runs a consistent 58°F and offers excellent Class I–II whitewater, perfect for both beginners and intermediate paddlers.
We’ll be paddling the Dam 3 to Spring River Oaks Campground stretch (about 8 miles) Sat and Sun, which features:
• Fun, moderate current
• Small waterfalls and 1–2 ft. drops
• Eddies, small surfing waves
• A busy Saturday crowd — with things calming down on Sunday
Weekend Schedule
• Paddling both Saturday and Sunday
• Mexican Feast on Saturday evening (burritos, beans, and all the fixings)
• Camping at Spring River Oaks Campground
This is a joint trip with the Saint Louis Canoe and Kayak Club.
Register by May 19th
Email Russ Aagaard at floatdirector@missouriwhitewater.org with your email, phone, guests, camping or cabins.

Arkansas Canoe Club’s annual School of River Paddling
2026-06-05 14:00 - 2026-06-07 17:00 | Rocky Springs RV Ranch, 17094 Martin Pedro Rd,, Siloam Springs, 72761, United States
See link, School of River Paddling – Basic Information:
The Arkansas Canoe Club’s School of River Paddling is designed to introduce basic paddling techniques on Class I+ rivers. Contained in the web pages is information that should be read by each person registering for the school.

When: June 5th-7th, 2026

Where: Rocky Springs RV Ranch 17094 Martin Pedro Rd, Siloam Springs, AR.

Rocky Springs features a field event area for camping with a pavilion in the middle for our group meetings and meals.

Held in early to mid June and is tentatively scheduled on the Illinois River near Siloam Springs, AR. at Gypsy Camp & Canoe. By June the warmer temperatures can make the water temperature a welcome treat! Participants still need to have appropriate layers.

Participants can use a variety of kayak or canoe models, including but not limited to whitewater models. Longer, “recreational” style boats are welcome.

Although the Illinois River offers features and challenging rapids at the whitewater park, the Illinois River offers a more gentle overall introduction to moving water.

River School is usually a smaller event (with a more laid-back atmosphere than School of Whitewater Paddling — Arkansas Canoe Club.

Excellent paddling instruction. Updates will also be posted to the ACC Facebook page. If you have other questions, contact the School Director.
Please let the School Director know if you would be willing to volunteer as an instructor, assistant instructor, or support boater. This is a great way to keep up your instruction skills!

TRR Central Region Rendezvous - WOKA. MWA & ACC welcome.
2026-06-11 17:00 - 2026-06-14 17:00 | MO
Thursday evening to Sunday evening, TRR Central Region Chapters, Silom Springs & WOKA.
(Dates chosen to overlap with part of the Oklahoma City Golf Tournament benefitting TRR, so TRR National staff can paddle with us!)
We will camp and play at two paddle parks: Silom Springs & WOKA. There is something for every skill level, including instruction. Lots of Class I & II water.
Who:

Participation targeted to veterans from TRR’s Central Region chapters (Missouri, Illinois, Oklahoma, Arkansas) and their +1 civilian guest.
Priority given to veterans and civilian volunteers who have paddled with or volunteered for TRR in the 6 months prior to this event, so come paddle with us!
Support boaters wanted, veterans & civilians.
Other paddling clubs, especially MWA & ACC members, are welcome.

$50 deposit required, which will be returned to veterans and ACA instructors who attend.
Included: Camping fees, food, water park admission fees, use of TRR paddling gear, and breakfasts + dinners.
You are responsible for your own transportation to and from this event and bringing your own camping gear.
Registration deadline will be May 1, 2026.

Application https://forms.gle/KatrTff9MaQRjwU68

Waiver
https://app.waiversign.com/e/5ec586d529225c00177a7229/doc/5ec5886c58ab8000182232d1?eventName=2026%20Central%20Region%20Rendezvous%20WOKA%2FSSKP

POC = Debbie Dean, TRR Central Region Coordinator, 405-249-9498, debbie.dean@teamriverrunner.org.
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Participants in TRR events need to electronically sign a 2026 Regional TRR Waiver. See TRR’s National Code of Conduct & Alcohol Policy.
Team River Runner Mission: To provide all veterans and their families an opportunity to find health, healing, community purpose, and new challenges through adventure and adaptive paddle sports!

Week of Rivers (WOR) Trip - NC Canoe Club 2026
2026-06-27 - 2026-07-04 | Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground, 755 East Alarka Rd, Bryson City, NC, 28713, United States
More info can be found: https://www.carolinacanoeclub.org/content/week-rivers/
You can come for as much or as little of the event as you choose. Opportunities to paddle class 1-4, with some instructional events.
If you want to discuss the event with an MWA local who has gone several times, contact Kathy Pszonka, 314-402-3038 <iamakayaknmom@hotmail.com>.
Willow Pratt Ellis is organizing the rental of a shared “bunk-house” style cabin, adjacent to the group campground of the event. Contact her if interested, (816) 372-2165 <jwillowellis@gmail.com>.

July General Meeting
2026-07-14 19:00 - 20:30 | MO

Colorado Class II Trip
2026-08-15 08:00 - 2026-08-20 17:00 | MO
2026 Class II Colorado Trip Announcement
Once again, the Rocky Mountain Canoe Club and the Missouri Whitewater Association have granted permission for me to conduct a joint Class II whitewater trip.
My plan is to follow the same template used last year. The trip will begin on or about August 16. My current plan is to paddle the Arkansas River first for three day camping at Turtle Mountain Campground north of Buena Vista. We will then travel over the Continental Divide to the Taylor River, camp at Lottis Creek Campground and paddle for two days on the Taylor River.
These are both group campgrounds and both campgrounds also have individual sites available. Turtle Mountain has pit toilets but not water or electricity. Lottis Creek has pit toilets, potable water, a large covered picnic shelter and some spots with electricity. Both have spotty cell service.
At both of these venues there are class III runs easily available and all are welcome to attend but the focus will be on Class II stretches. On the Arkansas our choices will include the Milk Run, Stone Bridge to Big Bend or Salida and the Fractions. As I type today water levels on the Arkansas are uncertain so choices will be somewhat water dependent. I switched to the Arkansas first so we can take advantage of the last two days of artificial release. The Taylor is always runnable.
Last year, and on all other trips I have conducted, I valued the assistance of experienced paddler to lead the smaller groups we will break into, to provide safety and paddling tips to newer folks.
The focus of the trip is to provide an opportunity to safely paddle class II water in the beautiful Colorado mountains and to get to know other like minded paddlers. Canoes, kayaks and inflatables are all welcome.
Last year we had about 30 participants.
I have not yet made campground reservations because I want to get a sense of interest. I encourage last year’s participants to add their own comments.
Please let me know if you are interested. If anyone needs gear please let me know. I am sure we can accommodate any reasonable need. In terms of safety, gear I expect everyone to have a Coastguard approved PFD, a helmet and floatation bags in the boats. For those of you who know how to use it, other safety and first aid gear is very welcome. I am actually thinking of perhaps doing some short safety drills but only if people are amenable.
This is a club sponsored and American Canoe Association covered trip. All participants must be paid up members of either the Missouri Whitewater Association or the Rocky Mountain Canoe Club and have a valid ACA number.
I only have two rules. One, I will designate a starting time in the morning and expect everyone to be ready to depart then. Two, if I ask anyone to walk any rapid or reach I expect that to be complied with. On the river we will, of course, endeavor to paddle safely.
I really enjoyed last year’s trip.
Please let me know if you are interested. Last year I had wonderful help from members of both clubs and will need that again, especially in the area of lists and internet communication. I really need that help again. Please let me know if you are willing to help.
To RSVP for this event please contact Chris Kelly cskelly1022@gmail.com cc Matt Worobec mworobec@yahoo.com Chris phone (573) 489–0684 or Matt phone (314) 229-2714

Annual MWA Members event – float trip, dinner, and annual meeting
2026-09-11 00:00 - 2026-09-13 23:59 | Akers Ferry group campground, 37° 22' 59.0160" N 91° 34' 9.9840" W, United States
Always the weekend after Labor Day. Our annual members’ picnic! Join us for camping, paddling and fun, Friday night to Sunday morning.

Location: Akers Ferry group campground, located 20 miles south of Salem, Missouri. Akers Groupsite Campground, Jadwin, MO 65501

From Salem, take Highway 19 south 4 miles. Turn right on KK-16 miles to Akers Group Campground. The campground is 1/2 mile north of Akers Ferry (junction of Highways K and KK). There are pit toilets and water available, however Note: no campers allowed at this group campsite. The campground is right by the river.

Schedule:

Friday night – set up your campsite and join us for a social gathering.

Saturday – enjoy a float trip and river conservation clean-up on the Upper Current River. Leave from Cedar Grove to Akers campground—estimated 3 hours. If you need to rent a canoe or kayak, try Akers Ferry® Canoe Rental (currentrivercanoe.com). Make your own arrangements (unless you are with TRR).

Saturday dinner, MWA will provide meat. Everyone should bring a side dish. Please indicate on FaceBook if you are coming (to inform the caterer).

After dinner, MWA annual meeting (includes welcoming newly voted officers).

If you haven’t already signed your annual MWA ACA waiver and intend to paddle with us, please sign the waiver.

Organizer: Kevin (Slim) Olson <slimbo12@hotmail.com>

November General Meeting
2026-11-10 19:00 - 20:30 | MO
