From the President,

I wanted to update all on how TSRA is proceeding during these uncertain times. On May 1, ACA posted an update on COVID 19 with a statement which included,

“Based on what we know now, what the CDC recommends, and on the guidance provided by medical professionals, we will continue to cancel or postpone ACA sponsored events such as team trials until at least June 15th. Public health guidelines vary across the country, but there are clear general guidelines we can follow if we choose to paddle.

• If you’re sick, stay home and contact your doctor for care

• If you’re exposed to someone with COVID-19, follow your doctor’s guidance on the proper duration for a quarantine

• Avoid groups of more than ten people

• Maintain at least six feet of separation between people at all times. That may make shuttle and transportation, rafting, and tandem paddling challenging. Flat water paddling, park and play, and attainments are good options. Walking or bike shuttles are also options

• Maintain strict hygiene – wash your hands frequently, don’t share food or water containers, and frequently clean surfaces you touch

• Minimize travel time and distance, and be sure to follow state and local rules for quarantine and isolation if you do travel

• Paddle well below your skill level to reduce the risk of injury and need for rescue

• Respect the communities in which we paddle – be sure to not do anything that might stress local healthcare resources. Make sure we’ll be welcome when this crisis resolves”

The link to the full statement is https://www.americancanoe.org/news/504417/ACA-Update-on-COVID-19--May-1-2020.htm

Our May, June and July TSRA event organizers are closely following ACA and CDC’s recommendations as well as state and county regulations. Decisions will be made accordingly as to whether or not to hold events so watch our website for any changes to the schedule. Managing risks to adequately protect our instructors, volunteers and students is our number one priority along with consideration of land and river managers in the communities we visit along the way.

So, until we meet up again, be sure to follow the general guidelines ACA has stated above if you choose to paddle and be respectful of the communities in which you paddle.

Be safe, be responsible and have fun,

Sally