Swiftwater Awareness for Paddlers

Moving water can be pure joy one moment and unpredictable the next – from shifting currents beneath the surface or strainers and logjams. Join us to explore the fundamentals of hydrology on rivers of all kinds. You’ll learn how water behaves as it accelerates, deepens, compresses, and curls—and how to read every bend for what might be waiting around the corner. This presentation focuses on staying ahead of the environment through proactive decision making, giving you the knowledge and confidence to make smart calls on the water. Whether you’re easing into kayaking or refining your skills for remote backcountry runs, you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of hazards, navigation strategies, and what it takes to move safely through dynamic waterways. About our speaker: Sam is a long time American Canoe Association instructor with 18 years of professional paddlesport teaching experience across whitewater, sea kayaking, packrafting, and swiftwater rescue. He currently serves as the Assistant Coordinator of UAF Outdoor Adventures, leading their paddling program and sharing his expertise with paddlers around the world.