Water News Network

follow up

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 08:02:00 +0000

Hey there,

Just a quick follow up in case you’ve missed my email. If you’re short on time right now — no worries. I won’t bug you about it again.

Thank you,

John.

On Wed, Mar 21, 2018 at 9:26 AM, John Hawthorne <john.hawthorne@connexdm.com> wrote:

Hello there

On http://waternewsnetwork.blogspot.com/2009_08_02_archive.html
http://waternewsnetwork.blogspot.com/2009_08_02_archive.html
http://waternewsnetwork.blogspot.com/2009_08_02_archive.html you mention contaminated water. I would like to ask if an article I just published which is about Waterborne Diseases would be of any use to you on your page.

You can read all the takeaways right here: https://businessconnectworld.com/2018/02/15/critical-facts-waterborne-diseases-us/

It would be great to know your personal opinion on the article. And if you find it useful please consider linking to it from that page of yours, or perhaps in your future writing. Also if you prefer you may republish the article.

Thank you very much,

John.

question regarding a water scarcity post on waternewsnetwork.blogspot.com

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Wed, 21 Mar 2018 09:26:00 +0000

Hello there

On http://waternewsnetwork.blogspot.com/2009_08_02_archive.html
http://waternewsnetwork.blogspot.com/2009_08_02_archive.html
http://waternewsnetwork.blogspot.com/2009_08_02_archive.html you mention contaminated water. I would like to ask if an article I just published which is about Waterborne Diseases would be of any use to you on your page.

You can read all the takeaways right here: https://businessconnectworld.com/2018/02/15/critical-facts-waterborne-diseases-us/

It would be great to know your personal opinion on the article. And if you find it useful please consider linking to it from that page of yours, or perhaps in your future writing. Also if you prefer you may republish the article.

Thank you very much,

John.

GOOD NEWS ZENITH PAYMENT NOTICE

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 17:00:00 +0000

From the Disk of Ms. Rita Ikeh

Director, ATM Debit Card Unit

Zenith Bank Plc

Attn:BENEFICIARY,

How are you doing? Well this is to let you know that we Zenith Bank

Management has today concluded loading your funds USD$10.5Million into

your ATM debit Card and will be sending it to you as soon as we

receive this following information below to enable us know where we

are sending it and to avoid the card missing on transit, so we need

this information as soon as possible.

1} Your full name/address

2} A copy of your identification

3} Your direct telephone number where we can get you when needed

Again, we will immediately commence with the sending of your ATM Debit

Card as soon as we receive this information because your card is ready

as we communicate with you through this media and we need to send it

to you as soon as possible, so try to be a little fast in sending all

this information to us while you feel free to call us on phone as soon

as you are less busy.

Have a nice day while we will be waiting to hear from you couple with

all this information just as we have requested because your card is

ready and we need to send it to you, so be fast please.

Regards,

Ms. Rita Ikeh

Director, ATM Debit Card Unit

Zenith Bank Plc

Invitation to connect on LinkedIn

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 05:45:00 +0000

From Kristian Gustavson

Oceanography Instructor at Cuyamaca College

Greater San Diego Area

I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.

- Kristian

Confirm that you know Kristian

You are receiving Invitation to Connect emails. Unsubscribe

The 90-Day Plan (weekly update)

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 18:17:00 +0000

Hello,

When The 90-Day Plan was put on hiatus, we received a lot of requests to bundle the plan once a week as opposed to sending daily updates. Please read on below for the updates.

As you probably know, daily updates can be found here: http://www.belowthesurface.org/90dayplan.php

We hope you're staying tuned to Dave Cornthwaite's journey down the Mississippi and we wish him and our good friend John Ruskey well as the hopefully finish their paddle in the Gulf later today!

Follow Dave here: http://www.davecornthwaite.com/

Cheers,

Kristian

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 74

Pack a punch to pollution and PACK YOUR LUNCH. Single servings use 10-times more packaging than buying in bulk; if you do go out for lunch, what are some ways to minimize waste?

Buy a Lunchbox Today!

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Generally, it is less expensive to pack a lunch from home than it is to buy it; how much money could you save if you packed your lunch (in reusable containers) everyday throughout the year?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 75

Physical exercise can help improve your focus and study habits, but time for recess and gym class is decreasing at schools across the country. GET ACTIVE by promoting a fit lifestyle. Good health is similar to clean water; it is easy to take for granted when you have it, but it's a problem when it is gone.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: How many minutes of exercise do you get everyday? How does spending time outside help you understand yourself and nature? Do you like to exercise and spend time outdoors?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 76

Reuse is the second of the three R's. GIVE YOUR CLOTHES ANOTHER GO by donating items that no longer fit or items you no longer wear to charity.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Do you know of a local charity that supports efforts in response to natural disasters? Why are wetlands considered storm buffers?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 77

Next time you want to read a new book, TRY the LIBRARY. It requires a lot if energy and paper to produce a book, consider reusing one at the library—it's free too!

Read: The Lorax

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: What community resources does your library offer? What is America's literacy rate? What role does research play in conservation efforts? Why happens if that research never makes it to the public?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 78

DON'T FEED WILDLIFE—including waterfowl (ducks, geese, swans, etc). Feeding wildlife is highly discouraged. It causes animals to lose their fear of humans, makes them more aggressive and spreads diseases. Plus, human food can make them sick and we don't want that! If you want to help animals, the best thing you can do is advocate for native plants and open-lands to promote biodiversity. This will allow wildlife to the ability to feed themselves.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: What are three harmful impacts of feeding waterfowl? What diseases can large populations of waterfowl spread?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 79

Rainwater replenishes groundwater and reduces runoff. BUILD a RAIN GARDEN at home, work, or volunteer to build one in your community.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Organize gather volunteers and to apply for a grant to help fund your rain garden.

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 80

Choose one NATURAL CARE product to replace a conventional type. Traces from Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) are beginning to appear in our drinking water across the country.

Buy Eco-Friendly Soap!

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge:Do these products seem to work the same, better, or worse? What are there benefits to using products with fewer artificial ingredients? If you think the alternative care products are better, gradually begin replacing one for the other.

--
Kristian Anders Gustavson

BELOW THE SURFACE, Founder & Explorer
A coast-to-coast exploration of America's waterways
760-277-3503
www.belowthesurface.org

"Be the Solution"

Follow Us and Our Work! http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=WaterNewsNetwork&loc=en_US

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 75

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 16:44:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: How many minutes of exercise do you get everyday? How does spending time outside help you understand yourself and nature? Do you like to exercise and spend time outdoors?

River News

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 16:41:00 +0000

Some news of note off the web from our good friends John Ruskey @ The Quapaw Canoe Company:

River flooding gives birth to tiny island in West Bay

http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2011/08/miss_flooding_gives_birth_to_t.html

Roundup commonly found in Mississippi River watershed

http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=2909

Nation needs a fresh view of its rivers

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/aug/11/guest-column-nation-needs-a-fresh-view-of-its

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 74

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 05:32:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

Buy a Lunchbox Today!

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Generally, it is less expensive to pack a lunch from home than it is to buy it; how much money could you save if you packed your lunch (in reusable containers) everyday throughout the year?

The 90-Day Plan: RESURFACING and Updates!

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 05:07:00 +0000

Howdy!

Thanks for following The 90-Day Plan: 90 Ways in 90 Days to Clean & Conserve Water! We apologize that we have been under the radar and below the surface for a couple weeks. Field work and explorations called us away from the web. We hope that you have been following Dave Cornthwaite's source-to-sea paddle--he's in Baton Rouge!

Anyhow, below you can find the days we didn't send out on time. Please expect us to keep you current the rest of the ride thought!

Cheers,

Kristian and the BTS Exploration Team

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 62

The summer heat adds stress to trees, bushes, and other plants by speeding up transpiration (or the evaporation of water from parts of the plant). SPREAD a LAYER of MULCH around all plants outdoors to help minimize water loss. Using a two-three inch layer of mulch around plants is also a natural way to keep weeds under control.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Composting organic materials such as yard clippings and kitchen waste prevents hundreds of pounds sent to the landfill every year and saves water if you use this instead of the garbage disposal. Design a plan to build a compost bin for your home.

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 63

Too much water can be a bad thing: ONLY YOU CAN PREVENT EROSION! By reducing the amount of water that flows from your property and ensuring that it is absorbed into the ground instead of flowing into storm drains, you will play an important role in reducing flash floods downstream.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: How much runoff does a one-acre parking lot produce compared to one-acre grassy field?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 64

From the street to the sea—before you do anything else today, go outside and make sure your closest STORM DRAIN is CLEAN. Storm drains are the fastest route for water to travel from the street to the ocean and they send almost 70% of nonpoint pollution downstream to our lakes, rivers, and oceans. About half of all stormwater comes from our homes, driveways, and sidewalks.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Why is it better to sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing debris into storm drains? Get involved with or create a local storm drain-stenciling program and search for innovative ways to keep trash out of the gutter. Ask your municipality to consider installing screens and covers on all storm drains. After all, it's downstream from there.

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 65

DON'T OVERWATER! More plants die from too much water than from not getting enough water. Before watering, check the soil two or three inches down, if it's moist watering can wait.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Research the amount of water plants in your yard need and come up with three easy ways to check if they need to be watered. Having the lawn frequently aerated is also a way to reduce the amount of needed water.

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 66

During the next storm place a bucket under a downspout and time how long it takes to fill. Then, GRAB a RAIN-BARREL and start collecting water from your roof. Rainwater is free, contains no chlorine, and arrives to your home without the need for filtration and pumping. If you can't do some of these things at home, it may be possible for your school, business, and/or local government to look into these tips. Just ask!

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Given the size of your roof, how much rainwater can you capture during a typical storm?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 67

Pick a spot and PLANT a TREE. Why not? Research different types of native trees and choose one that would be best for your yard.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: What age do you think the oldest tree is on your property? Why do native trees and plants use less water than non-native species? Get a thermometer, how hot is it in the full sun? What is the temperature in the shade?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 68

RECYCLE PAPER save some blue, and make some green for your school or workplace. Recycling one ton of paper is the equivalent of saving 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Determine ways for your school or classroom to use less paper.

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 69

Don't just recycle, E-CYCLE. Electronic waste is a growing concern; fortunately most electronics can be recycled. Electronics contain many heavy metals and other dangerous chemicals but most of these can be recycled.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: On June 12th we made the digital transition and no doubt, left some electronics behind. Work with some friends, coworkers, or local teachers to organize an e-waste recycling fundraiser.

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 70

Ink leaves our mark on paper, what does it leave for the water? RECYCLE INK CARTRIDGES.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: How do you dispose of ink cartridges? Suggest a way for your workplace, school, or community group to raise money by collecting empty cartridges. Also, try to make the switch to using soy-based inks.

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 71

You've made it this far, take it one step further and aim to produce ZERO WASTE.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Create a 100% recyclable and compostable grocery list

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 72

Learning from our past can be used to shape our future; help your workplace, school, or township LEED the WAY to a better, more efficient future. LEED is a certification that stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design that promotes sustainable development.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Are any buildings in your area that have been LEED certified?

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 73

GET on the BUS; don't put up a fuss (for a ride).

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: How many miles is your commute? Think of three ways you can commute to work without riding alone. What is the carbon dioxide Parts Per Million (PPM) threshold for coral reefs?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 61

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:13:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 61

Encourage your family, friends, neighbors and anyone else you know to REDUCE the USE of LANDSCAPE PESTICIDES, HERBICIDES, and FERTILIZERS, especially fertilizers containing phosphorus. You can tell if it is phosphorus free by reading the label; the Nitrogen content is the first number, phosphorus is the second, and potassium is listed third. The over-use and runoff of these products leads to harmful algae blooms which causes 'dead zones' and poisons aquaculture.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Name three water-specific types of collateral damage from each: pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Pouring boiling water on weeds or pulling them is a safe method of removal; what are other safe remedies for weeds and pests? Why do plants treated with fertilizer require more water?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 60

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:13:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 60

It is estimated that 30-50% of outdoor watering is wasted; save water and money by WATERING in the MORNING or in the EVENING. Make sure you don't water the sidewalk or driveway.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: About half of our drinking water comes from groundwater, why is it more important to recharge the ground water than to have it evaporate? Get a rain gauge or use an empty can to determine how much you need to water.

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 59

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:12:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 59

Our yards get a lot of use during nice months don't just mow over it, MAKE YOUR YARD WORK FOR YOU. During WWII backyard gardens grew the same amount of produce commercial agriculture did. What types of fruits and vegetables can be grown in your area?

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: What is a Freedom Lawn? Estimate how much water, time, and money you spend on landscaping. Is it possible to put that money to better use? Purchase a manual push mower to completely cut lawn care costs.

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 58

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 17:24:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 58

Let's go back outside to INVESTIGATE YOUR YARD. Take a close look at what lives there and determine if your yard could serve as a sanctuary. Backyard sanctuaries promote biodiversity, a healthy environment, and a peaceful atmosphere.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: How many mosquitoes can one bat consume in one night? How can a bat house(s) benefit your backyard and your community? Is there food, water, and shelter for wildlife in your yard?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 57

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:00:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 57

Although it may not seem like it, air inside your home is usually dirtier than air outside. CLEAR the AIR with a houseplant.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: What plants are best to add some aesthetic value to a room? What harmful contaminants can plants help to remove from your home? Have you ever considered giving a live plant or flowers in place of cut flowers?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 56

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:00:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 56

Choosing products that promote QUALITY OVER QUANTITY is a core approach to conservation. The idea is to buy and use something that lasts because it ultimately saves money and precious resources.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Consider the durable items you have (it could be a sturdy backpack, pair of jeans, a bike, or anything else). How much money do you think not having to replace them has saved you?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 55

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 18:57:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 55

Americans tend to use 1-3 pounds of paper everyday. GO PAPERLESS to save trees and ease clutter. Most banks and other companies allow for secure, convenient account access and provide paperless statements, make the switch today. Another way to save paper is to widen document margins and print double-sided. How many phonebooks are hiding in your home? How often do you really use them?

Buy a Kindle!

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Cut junk mail today—call 1-888-5 OPT OUT. How do trees and plants minimize erosion? Why is water clarity important for aquaculture?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 54

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:40:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 54

Please BEGIN USING COMPACT FLORESCENT bulbs (CFLs) in place of conventional ones. By making the switch to CFL's you are installing a bulb that will last ten-times longer and use 75% less energy than conventional bulbs. Although CFL's are a great way to save energy, make sure that you dispose of them as you would other HHW.

Get some HCFs today!

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Compared to their present electricity bill, if you were to replace every bulb in your home with CFL's, how much money could you save this year?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 53

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 04:53:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 53

To maximize heat when cooking food on the stove, KEEP a LID on IT! By covering dishes on the stove as you prepare food, cooking time will be reduced and you can save as much as 2/3 of energy.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: It may not sound like much fun, but you can save energy by cleaning the burners on your stovetop. Is it a good idea to pour grease down the drain?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 52

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 19:02:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 52

Nothing has changed the way we eat more than the refrigerator. RE-THINKING the way we use the REFRIGE can cut energy costs on one of the kitchen's most costly appliances.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: If your refrigerator was purchased before 2001, technology and efficiency have greatly improved. How quickly could the savings of a high efficiency refrigerator add up to pay for itself?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 51

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 19:51:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 51

While we are still in the kitchen, PLAN a NO-BULL MEAL. An appetizing figure suggests that Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, CAFOs, located in the US produce three times the amount of sewage as American citizens. It is estimated that 60-pounds of animal waste are generated for every one pound of beef produced.

America's Environmental Report Card: Are We Making the Grade. By: Harvey Blatt

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: What is a CAFO and how do these feedlots impact the water? Why is nonpoint source pollution difficult to regulate and enforce?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 50

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 00:16:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 50

There can be a high cost to low prices. BUY FAIR TRADE certified products. Fair Trade products increase environmental, social, and consumer standards.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: What began the Fair Trade Movement? Why is important to know the origin of products you purchase?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 49

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 01:53:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 49

Now that you have considered what it takes for most produce to travel to your plate, GIVE ORGANIC FOODS a TRY.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Groundwater provides 50% of our country's drinking water; what happens when fertilizers and pesticides get in the groundwater? How can ground water be cleaned? Are there any obvious benefits to the water that would come from reducing pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers?

SUP Mississippi Expedition Blog: I am Small

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 20:53:00 +0000

When the waves come, I am a dwarf. Across the channel a white tug pushes over 30 barge containers, each close to 200 feet long, 35 feet wide and 12 feet high. The rollers start when I am level with the mid-section of the craft but the water only begins to churn properly behind the tug, a long line of white water jumping up and down, snakelike. You could surf these waves but if you fell you'd need a good three minutes of breath. I stay away, just little old me on my paddleboard, rising and falling at the whim of the river. The key is to go with it, but don't let it take you.

For 1300 miles I have been at home on the Mississippi; this famous, iconic waterway, this giant among rivers, a second in a name, a breeding ground for generations of writers and musicians. The river starts small, as we all do, but it didn't take long to become strong. It has let me be its friend, so far. Mike Clarke, the St Louis-based waterman who has paddled more miles on this river than most, described his relationship with the Mississippi perfectly; 'it is benevolent, it gives and gives and gives, but now and then it will take something, we call it an offering. If it doesn't take you, it's a fair offering.'

This is not the typical rattling of a foreigners cage forced by either over-protectiveness or ignorance, Mike knows what he's talking about, and once the Middle Mississippi is joined by the other Big Miss, the Missouri, the true nature of a big river is revealed. Up until now I've seen endless new sights, things that made me tense up or murmur 'wow' beneath my breath, but just as I was getting the hang of life on the Mississippi the challenge is ramped up, the costs are obvious whether you see them or not. The river isn't just big anymore, it is enormous. I am very small and there are reminders everywhere.

Sure, the barges are enormous, but the river has never been so dominant. I had become used to my pace but the arrival of the Missouri has forced a recalculation. Suddenly a hard paddle can bring 9 miles per hour, where at the headwaters it was 3.5 mph and at Minneapolis 5.5 mph. I am travelling faster, which means there is more water, which means more danger. All at once parts of the river fold in on themselves. A thin ripple metres ahead of me can break apart as though a chasm in a violent earthquake, and in milliseconds the two sides of the void curl and spin around each other, creating a whirlpool with an eye two-foot across. I could jump in and not touch the sides, and instinct tells my toes to grip a little harder, my knees bend to brace against the river's attempt to pull my board down. Awesome is a word too overused, but this is nothing but awesome, to see hydraulics like this.

The river is wide, and so is the sky. Many of the bluffs that followed the Upper River have been etched away over time and now sandbars and a thin tree line border the Mississippi, the grasslands and plains beyond them are hidden unless you go walkabout. I find myself stood on my board, drifting downstream, my paddle to attention at my feet like a Masai Warrior on guard, both of us becoming accustomed to our surroundings, learning to understand just how small we are when set against this river.

---------------

Dave Cornthwaite is currently Stand Up Paddleboarding the length of the Mississippi River. To find out more about his journey visit <a href="http://www.davecornthwaite.com" target="_blank">www.davecornthwaite.com</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/expedition100" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/expedition1000</a> and follow Dave on <a href="http://www.Twitter.com/Davecorn" target="_blank">www.Twitter.com/Davecorn</a>

--
Dave Cornthwaite
Adventurer | Author | Motivational Speaker

Official Website: davecornthwaite.com

US Mobile (throughout Mississippi Exped June - September '11) 760-453-3059
UK Mobile: 07872 986084

Twitter: @DaveCorn

Facebook: Expedition1000

YouTube: DaveCornthwaite

On June 20th 2011 Dave started the 4th journey of his Expedition1000 project, a 2400 mile source to sea descent of the Mississippi River, by Stand Up Paddleboard. Dave is aiming to raise £1,000,000 throughout the project, please find out more about his charities, here

Expedition1000: Twenty-five journeys of 1000+miles, all by different means
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAkfvWwL0-U

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 48

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 01:03:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 48
Support your community and BUY LOCAL. While we're at it, buy American; our environmental standards are a lot higher than most other countries and right now, we need to keep as much revenue as possible at home.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Where is the closest farmer's market? Have you considered joining a community supported agriculture co-op? What are three ways a healthy diet helps to support a healthy planet?

The 90-Day Plan: DAY 47

noreply@blogger.com (Below The Surface) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 06:19:00 +0000

The 90 Day Plan - 90 Ways in 90 Days

The 90 Day Plan: Day 47

Most food travels thousands of miles before reaching your plate. BUY PRODUCE IN-SEASON to slash emissions.

For More Information:

www.belowthesurface.org

Challenge: Most produce stickers list the country of origin; calculate the total distance all of the your produce traveled in order to reach your home.