Hosts: Tom & Wendy Borchelt

Attending: Scott and Natalie Borchelt, Nick and Matt Kline, and Dennis Versele and Dick Horn

Pics posted here

The 2011 Mad River float set at least one new record, for the number of  paddlers willing to brave the winter elements.  Tom and Wendy Borchelt, Scott and Natalie Borchelt, Nick and Matt Kline, and Dennis Versele and Dick Horn filled out the four canoes.  This was Dick’s rookie year since a number of us chose not to attempt the high waters last year.  Another record was probably set this year for the low water level.  The dry fall, and cold winter weather, which has not allowed much runoff made the first two miles a challenge, with Scott and Nick getting out and pulling canoes off the gravel on at least a couple of occasions.  The first 2.25 miles took two hours, including our lunch stop, while the next seven miles were accomplished in three hours. 

The weather was good, with a few inches of snow on the ground and temperatures hovering around the 30 degree mark.  There was a bit of wind, but the Mad’s high banks afforded good protection.  Once again, the wildlife was abundant, with sightings of turkeys and a coyote providing a first for the annual event.  There were numerous turkeys in the trees and the lead canoe, with Dennis and Dick, saw thirty or more on the ground.  In addition, there were the usual ducks, herons, kingfishers, a flock of robins, and a few American Black Ducks were sighted for possibly the first time.

While checking the website for the numbers of paddlers over the years, it was determined that the tenth anniversary of the Mad River Winter Canoe Event will be in 2013.  It is hoped that we can get all of the previous participants back for the weekend.  In addition to this year’s crew, Kelly, Kristel, Brian, and Denise, put it on your calendars!

Tom & Wendy Borchelt