The annual Mississippi River Canoe Days event is set for on Aug. 5.
The event will be 9 a.m.-noon at Kiwanis Park, 410 E. River Road, Brainerd. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will have an aquatic invasive species decontamination unit there. The Crow Wing County Sheriff's Office Water Patrol boat will be on display for everyone to explore and ask questions. People can also learn about what a watershed is, what it means to live in the Upper Mississippi-Brainerd Watershed and what residents can do to keep it healthy. There will be numerous booths focused on environmental, recreational and civic themes.
At 10 a.m., take a watercraft ride down the Mississippi River to Crow Wing State Park. After arrival at the park, visitors may stop at the authentic fur trade encampment to learn about the history of the area.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own non-motorized watercraft (canoe, kayak or paddleboard). A few canoes, courtesy of Camp Ripley, will be provided free of charge. A shuttle service from Crow Wing State Park back to Kiwanis Park will be provided by Crow Wing County to help with transportation needs. Call Tim Terrill of the Mississippi Headwaters Board at 218-824-1189 to reserve a canoe before Aug. 3.
This event is sponsored by the Mississippi Headwaters Board and Crow Wing County. Additional partners include: the Crow Wing Soil & Water Conservation District, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Crow Wing State Park and Brainerd Parks and Recreation. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/cwswcd . Arrive early to receive a treat and bottled water.
