As many of you may know, River Keepers coordinated a canoe and kayak rental along with the River Excursions with the S.S. Ruby on our Red River. They had to be discontinued due to a lack of funding and qualified captains. While the S.S. Ruby is still dry docked due to the onerous time requirements to maintain a captain status for deemed federal waters, we are pleased to say that due to a grant from the University of Minnesota/Extension, and a partnership with the City of Moorhead and River Keepers, canoe and kayak rentals are back in the water. They will be available Wednesdays from 6-8pm and Saturdays from 1-4pm, starting June 17th.

In addition, there will be special River Paddling Excursions – History of the Red River (June 16), Canoeing and Kayaking Basics (June 30), History of Saloons (July 14), Red River Scavenger Hunt (July 28), Aviary Expedition (August 11), and Red River Fish (August 25). $15/participant or $10/participant if you have your own vessel.

Last spring, the City approved a River Corridor Study that placed an emphasis on our River areas, and how we could enjoy them. City staff have worked to develop trails and people-friendly areas while maintaining an emphasis on its natural state. Partnerships with the University of Minnesota/Extension, The Audobon Society, River Keepers and our Historical & Cultural Society in the Hjemkomst Center help us respect and enjoy our River to the fullest. Thank you to those organizations. If you haven’t had the opportunity, I hope you’ll take some time this summer and visit the river through one of these programs, or simply by visiting one of our beautiful parks along the River.