Boats were put in at the Halls Creek Landing and take out was an enjoyable six miles downstream at the BRF dam. Although a rainy spring has contributed to high water levels and a brisk current, strong head winds kept the colorful string of paddlers working.

The public was invited to the event and many took advantage of the equipment and shuttles made available by several FBR members. Joining the local members of FBR was UW LaCrosse student, Ajay Holder, with several fellow students including Thao and Quy, Vietnam natives. Kayaking was a new experience for both students but they did a fine job handling their boats and enjoyed the trip.

FBR president, Andy Ellingson, used his fishing rod and reel as well as his paddle for most of the trip. His luck however was not as good as that of a Bald eagle seen flying overhead clutching a flopping fish in his talons.

Following the river tour, Jeff Polzin, organizer of the event, demonstrated some white water kayaking techniques. A small crowd of passers-by was attracted to the BRF Hydroelectric tail race as Jeff rolled his kayak expertly in the fast water. The Friends of the Black River board is encouraging consideration of developing this tail race into a whitewater kayak raceway.