Paddle for Parks Launches Saturday

Nature lovers of all abilities are invited to explore the Fox River Saturday while benefitting the Oswegoland Park and Recreation Foundation.

Participants in Paddle for Parks can choose to canoe or kayak from the dam below Montgomery to Yorkville. A riverside lunch at breaks up the journey. Shuttles return participants to their cars.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A $45 fee includes a kayak or canoe rental, lunch and shuttle. Proceeds benefit the Oswegoland Park and Recreation Foundation.

“The focus of the foundation is the preservation of our natural areas. This event allows us to showcase one of Oswego’s greatest natural resources—the Fox River,” said Margaret Gienger, superintendent of marketing at Oswegoland Park District and liaison to the Foundation.

Ken Holmstrom, who sits on the Foundation's board of directors, said the foundation has partnered with Paddle and Trail of Aurora to provide instruction as needed for participants.

Naturalist and Oswegoland Park Board Commissioner Danielle Ebersole will provide information on the Fox River that is both useful and enjoyable, said Gienger.

“This is the first time this event has been offered. Once we get our feet wet, we hope to offer both a summer and fall event each year,” said Holmstrom. “The fall event will likely occur further toward Ottawa and highlight the fall scenery.”

The foundation raises funding for projects beyond what tax dollars can support. Holmstrom said he hopes some of the proceeds from the event will be used to add trees behind .

Register for Paddle for Parks online or by calling the Park District at 630-554-1010. Registration deadline is Friday. Children must be accompanied by an adult and this event is recommended for children ages 10 and older. The rain date is Sunday, July 24.