CRBI to hold 8th Annual "Waterfest"
By Miranda Lockridge
mlockridge@student.highlands.edu
Staff Writer
The Coosa River Basin Initiative will host the eight annual WATERFEST April 25-26 at Ridge Ferry Park in Rome.
"WATERFEST" is CRBI's major spring fundraiser and educational event. "We're looking to get 200 paddlers on the river and in our Tug-Of-War pool and have a great time doing it," said Executive Director and Riverkeeper Joe Cook.
CRBI encourages college students to participate in this year's festivities.
WATERFEST VIII will hold three competitive events: Tug-Of-War, Canoe-A-Thon and Race. Tug-Of-War will be organized into four-person teams, with an entry fee of $75 per team. CRBI anticipates 200 paddlers to participate in the Canoe-A-Thon. The Race will consist of 13 miles. Separate divisions exist for men and women, and a co-ed team will assemble for tandem canoe and kayak.
The prices for both the Canoe-A-Thon and Race are currently $50 (tandem) and $40 (solo), but will increase after April 18. Prizes will be awarded to winning teams.
Approximately 690 participants were present last year, raising more than $20,000 for CRBI's water programs. CRBI's boards of directors and staff members wish to raise at least $25,000 at this year's WATERFEST. They also anticipate increased participation along with doubling the engagement of colleges and schools involved.
CRBI was formed in 1992 by concerned citizens who wanted to protect the air, water and land of the Upper Coosa River Basin. CRBI has a professional staff, but remains volunteer-based.
Cook stated, "WATERFEST pays for CRBI's advocacy, education, water monitoring and restoration programs and educates the public about the importance of our rivers and streams."
Anyone can become a member of CRBI. To sponsor, join or obtain more information, contact Cook at jcook@coosa.org or at 706-232-2724. Those who would like to participate may register online at www.coosa.org beginning this month or stop by CRBI office located by Schroeder's in downtown Rome.
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