Hundreds of organizations around the country are committed to keeping America's rivers clean and as pure as possible; an effort to maintain our beautiful rivers and ensure that whitewater rafting continues to be a sport that future generations can enjoy.
Paying attention to the impact we have on the environment is just one step to preserving the natural resources available to us; 'thinking green' involves taking extra steps to raise awareness of problems and help preserve some of America's most beautiful natural resources.
The State of America's Rivers Today
As more people turn to outdoor water activities such as rafting, fishing, kayaking, and even canoeing along America's rivers, there is an increasing need to promote environmental awareness.
Litter along campsites and riverbanks are an expensive problem, and can even encourage more littering when it is left unnoticed. Communities around the country are dedicated to improve the natural environment by organizing cleanups and raising awareness about litter problems. Still, it is up to each individual to take care of waste, recycling, and other activities during any trip. Keeping all the waterways clean takes a consistent effort, but it is possible with the right approach.
Contaminants being disposed into the rivers and Lakes around America continue to be regulated by government-enforced laws and local ordinances, but these can be difficult to manage in some areas. Raising awareness about these issues is the only way to reduce pollution from industrial activities in any given city or region, and this requires a group effort from both city officials and representatives from each community.
The Dangers of Polluted Whitewater Rivers
Keeping whitewater rivers clean is not only beneficial to those who enjoy whitewater rafting as a sport, but also for future generations and the environment. Whitewater rivers around the country are essential sources for drinking water, natural irrigation, and also enhance the beauty of the landscape. They are both sources for recreation and a home for millions of birds, fish, and wildlife. A single piece of litter or trash can wind up in an animal's home, and create extensive damage on the riverbed or riverbanks of the waterways as it decomposes.
The rivers are natural habitats for thousands of fish, birds, and animals that make their homes along the forests and riverbanks. From waterfalls to tranquil streams, each area is simply 'home' to America's wildlife. Keeping these areas free of pollution ensures that wildlife can continue to enjoy their natural habitats and contribute to the larger eco-system that nature intended. Even something as small as a cigarette butt or plastic bag can be harmful to the birds, insects, and small animals that inhabit the area.
Future generations can enjoy nature at its most pure forms when wildlife habitats are left untouched, and when the waterways are raft able and clean. Instead of paddling through dirty streams and areas full of debris and contaminants, future generations can look forward to beautiful, pristine waters - just as nature intended. For rafters today, this involves keeping all areas free of excess waste, removing litter and trash and recycling it appropriately, and leaving every campsite in excellent shape before leaving it.
Ways to 'Think Green'
There are many ways to encourage greener thinking as an individual, as a team, or even raising awareness for the community. Organized cleanups are one of the simplest ways to get involved; this is simply a group event where trash, litter, and other debris that are negatively impacting the area are removed and discarded appropriately.
Other ways to maximize white water river resource include:
Educating community leaders about the state of rivers today
Encouraging community groups to take part in cleanup activities
Coordinating cleanup activities as a team-building event
Removing trash, litter, and other toxic materials individually
Reducing waste during a whitewater rafting trip, and disposing of all waste appropriately
Making a conscious effort to preserve the land and restore resources
Supporting local schools and groups raising money for waterway restoration efforts
Supporting companies that promote environmental awareness
Support recreational and economic development programs in the area
Thinking green is an important for making sure future generations can enjoy the natural resources available to us today. Taking steps to preserve the natural habitats of thousands of animals, and taking part in group-cleanup activities are just a few ways to promote environmental awareness for America's beautiful white water rivers.
Norm Schoenhoff and his crew have been leading river rafting trips down four of the most beautiful Northern California white water rivers, since 1978. Whitewater Excitement provides trips designed for beginners to experienced rafters, with "Best in Class" standards of safety, service, pricing and quality. Church groups, business organizations, families, and groups of friends regularly make the fun and exhilarating trip down the rivers, with the expert rafters from Whitewater Excitement. Learn more by visiting: http://www.whitewaterexcitement.com