A Job With Benefits

One of the perks of working for a river conservation group is that I get to explore rivers in western Washington. On Saturday, I was invited by the Middle Green River Coalition to participate in a cleanup event for the Green River. The Green River is dam controlled and supplies drinking water to the city of Tacoma. The river is close to Seattle (about 45 minutes southeast) and is an amazing place. A gorge with sandstone walls and, when enough water is released from the dam upstream, class II - III rapids make the river a playground for whitewater boaters.

I was lucky enough to tour the gorge with a great group of folks: Lisa Parsons (head of the MGRC), Casey Garland (a.k.a. Dr. Whitewater and owner of Downstream River Runners), and many more. After a long and stressful week, I wasn't sure if floating on the Green during a cool and drizzly day would be enjoyable. The second I got on the river, all my stress lifted and my mind cleared instantly. I had the best time and loved every minute of it!

Casey even let me take the oars and taught me some of the basics to rowing a raft. Years ago, I was a paddle raft guide on some great whitewater rivers in California. Something about the river makes me feel at home and getting in a raft again was a great feeling!

Here are some pictures from my own camera and some from Casey's. Thanks to the folks that allowed me to share in such a fun and important event!

I've never seen so many warning signs next to a river.

Unfortunately, the Green River is the scene of a number of drownings and fatal accidents. Most of the deaths on the river are from people drinking too much, not wearing life jackets, and making poor decisions.

Heading into a rapid and hoping for some action!

Taking a minute to enjoy a beautiful view.
You can probably see the hiking trail that goes behind the waterfall. The Green is fed by a number of waterfalls and springs, one of which was warm from a decades-old underground mine fire.

Another boat full of happy river rats.
I love the dog with a life jacket sitting in the raft.
Someday, I hope Soma will join me on the river!