Our first day on the Flint river was more than we could have asked for… Gorgeous weather, with highs in the low 80’s , a mix of sun, shade and a lovely zephyr keeping the gnats at bay. The majestic cypress and ogeechee lime graced the banks towering high above and kneeling before us like ancient majestic bearded giants.
Radium Springs was a pleasant lunch stop with the welcoming arching bridge and pool, but unfortunately the nutrient load was higher than encountered in past years, the likely culprit agricultural runoff... soon to be determined by the water quality testing results from Adopt A Stream.
Kingfisher chattered and danced along the river guarding their boroughs- some carved 8 feet or more into the bank. A venue of black vultures cavorted over a swollen deer carcass…helping recycle death back into life.
The karst topography etched the river bank and floor into a moonscape, with overhangs draped in luscious ferns. Truly a gorgeous landscape you would never think to see in Georgia!
Map turtle with their high back ridge and intricate pattern sun bathed themselves on logs along the way and many were so content absorbing the sun, they didn’t move even within reach of paddlers passing by.
Blue skies prevailed and the hot sun dared paddlers to jump into the chilly spring fed water and whip out squirt guns for refreshment and revenge.
With 14 miles of paddling under our belts, the bus ride home held sleepers and energizer bunnies…all satisfied with the day’s adventures.
Settling back into camp at Chehaw Park with delicious dinner from Satterfields – warmed our hearts and bellies, followed by an educational presentation from Flint Riverkeeper- Gordon Rogers.
Georgia River Network staff and volunteers worked hard to ensure everyone’s needs were accommodated and ready for a GREAT journey tomorrow!
Keep on rollin’ on the river!
Gwyneth Moody
Community Programs Coordinator, Georgia River Network