While for the most part this area provides for safe paddling for all skill levels, everyone should make sure to pay attention to hazards and always use appropriate gear. The guide provides warnings for areas with high boat traffic or that are exposed during low tides. Areas around bridges are often high traffic areas or have currents that may be difficult to paddle through. Paddling in a group is always safest!

Intracoastal Waterway tide information is available here.  This information has been provided by Olsen Associates and a link to their webpage has been provided below.  Tide information can help you plan your route as well as know when you can safely enter and leave the water. In addition to checking the tides, paddlers should check the weather, but also prepare for Florida’s sudden thunderstorms. Do not underestimate the danger of lightning.  Current weather information may be found here.

What you will need to bring with you:

Personal floatation device
Whistle
Water
Sunscreen

Suggested items to bring with you:

Insect repellent
Hat
Long sleeved shirt

While you are planning for your own safety, take a minute to plan for the environment’s safety as well.  Paddlers as a group are very environmentally conscious. Bring drinks and snacks in reusable containers. Dispose of all garbage appropriately, especially fishing line and plastic bags which can entrap wildlife. Do not approach wildlife. Leave what you find (unless it is garbage).

Pollution Warnings:

Unfortunately not all areas along the Intracoastal waterway are safe to enjoy to the fullest.  As of now we would like to warn all paddlers to avoid water-contact in two areas: Hopkins Creek and Hogpen Creek.

Hopkins Creek-Recent State reports show consistently high levels of pollution in Hopkins Creek, and a September Florida Department of Environmental Protection report showed that high levels of fecal coliform bacteria were found in the creek in 58% of the tests taken since 1985.  People exposed to fecal coliform bacteria may suffer diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, and the danger of the bacteria is higher for children and people with weaker immune systems.  For an Oct. 2008 newspaper article on the pollution of Hopkins Creek, click here.

Hogpen Creek-Information to come shortly. 

Safety Links:

http://www.americancanoe.org/safety/safety.lasso
http://www.flseaislandspaddlingtrails.com/tripsafety.html
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/gwt/paddling/Segments/long_distance.htm
http://www.olsen-associates.com/