Canoe club youth play their part in protecting water sources

Florida Lake Canoe Club (FLCC), which is on a continuous quest to protect water sources, continued to play a part when some of its youth members were involved in a project on International Water Day in late March.

To celebrate the occasion being International Water Day, International Water Week and International Healthy Rivers Day, the club arranged a river trip for the youngsters to Meyerton with beginners and learners to demonstrate the enjoyment and fun that participation in river activities can bring.

This included youth from underprivileged social backgrounds. During this river trip, a sewage overflow was discovered by the canoeists as it was trickling into the Klip River. This has been brought to the attention of the Mayor and environmental departments for action.

Club spokesperson, Jennie Dallas says: “The purpose was to enjoy celebrating healthy water during International Water Week, International Water Day and International Day of Action for Rivers.”

“Canoeists are obviously environmentally aware, conscious and concerned regarding the future and protection of the natural waterways including lakes, dams, rivers and streams – constantly taking action against pollution of such water to ensure the future of our natural environment.

“The river fun was followed by a traditional South African braai later in the afternoon.

“The younger paddlers at Florida Lake also enjoyed celebrating the annual anniversary of water which brings them so much fun and enjoyment where they were made aware of the importance of protecting the water sources. Since an annual anniversary is often accompanied by cake and candles, the youngsters also added their Happy Birthday song to healthy rivers, lakes and dams.”