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There will be a public paddle on Saturday, Aug. 7, but canoers say not to expect a lot of water.
"The occasional thunder storm and shower has not raised the overall water level by any significant amount. As a matter of fact we are at, or near, record lows for this time of year," according to Jack Brady of the Shawsheen River Watershed Association. "(SRWA member) Bob Rauseo pointed out that the current rate of flow is about two cubic feet per second and that during the early spring flood the rate of flow was over 2,000 cubic feet per second."
Those interested in the trip should meet on Saturday, Aug. 7 at 8:30 a.m. at Lowell Junction Road, across from Wyeth Labs, reference point 14 on the group's recreational map. The group will paddle a short distance up river then turn around and paddle to the Ballardvale Dam, reference point 16 on the SRWA's map. If you are unsure where the starting point is, meet in the parking lot next to the Ballardvale Dam by 8:20 a.m. The group will form a convey to the starting point.
Those wishing to borrow any gear, including a boat, flotation devise or paddle, should contact Bob Rauseo at 978-851-9505, or send an e-mail to ShawsheenRiver@comcast.net by tonight, Thursday evening, Aug. 5.
