Sea Kayaking: Beginner-Novice, instructional

The outing*:* If you've never paddled a sea kayak, or have been out only once or twice, join us for learning the basics of being on the water in a kayak. Included will be basic paddle strokes, capsize recovery (verbal), on-water communication, paddling in wind, entering/exiting a kayak, using a spray skirt and more.
Read Entire Posting: You're responsible for knowing outing details and how to prepare.
The Leader Needs: Your FULL name, email address /cell number, and the name and number of an emergency contact. If you bring a guest (maximum 1 guest), include the name and number of your guest. This info is required on the waiver/sign-in form, and providing it in advance of the outing will save time at the meeting location.
Meeting Location/Time/Day: Ridgefield Marina (5 Mill St, Ridgefield, WA), 9:30 a.m. PDT, May 30/Thursday. Please be prompt -- we want to be on the water by 10 a.m. Note that this is a 2-hour introductory outing. Directions: Follow I-5 N to exit 14. Turn L, and follow Pioneer St into Ridgefield (about 3 miles). You'll encounter 3 roundabouts, go straight ahead. At Pioneer & Main Streets, go straight head to enter the marina.
Parking: Parking on the gravel next to the fence (head-in) is free. If you park on the pavement, purchase a ticket from the machine at the restroom for $8. Leader will be wearing a green Sierra Club hat.
If You Sign Up for This Outing: Don't be a no-show. If this outing fills, you could prevent someone on the wait list from participating. If you must cancel, do so in advance on Meetup, or email the outing leader: tripsguy@aol.com.
Kayak Rentals: Available on the water from Ridgefield Kayak. You are responsible for arranging your rental! Call Ridgefield Kayak at (360) 727-4520 or book online at: AlderCreek.com . Two hour rentals are $35/single kayak, $45/double kayak and include pfd (life vest) and paddle. Ridgefield Kayak will also need your name, email address, cell number and driver's license number. Note: Participants may bring their own kayaks, but inflatables are not recommended.
After Our Instruction: We'll enjoy an easy paddle on Lake River, a tidal tributary of the Columbia, so you can practice your skills. Lake River is adjacent to Ridgefield Nat'l Wildlife Refuge and you will likely see great blue herons, osprey and maybe a bald eagle.
Outing Donation: Sierra Club members $2, non-members $4. Sierra Club membership is not required to participate in this outing.
Weather: Kayak outings go rain or shine. However, if weather is severe (high winds, heavy rain, lightning, etc), leaders will evaluate and will reschedule the outing. If it looks rainy, bring a rain parka (see below). You'll receive a weather update/reminder 2 days in advance, on May 28.
Medical: If you have a medical issue that could affect your participation in this outing, email the leader privately (tripsguy@aol.com).
Pets: This outing is not suitable for pets.
What to Wear and Bring: Wear clothing suited to weather (NO COTTON!). Polyester, polartec, nylon or polypropylene are far superior. Hat with drawstring to prevent loss if it's breezy. Sunglasses with tether (if sunny; your eyes will thank you). Footwear: river sandals, water shoes or old running shoes that you don't mind getting wet (your feet will get wet). Gloves: Fingerless gloves (such as bicycle gloves) can prevent blisters from handling the paddle shaft. Camera/binoculars: Optional.
Lunch & Water: We'll have lunch outdoors near the river following the outing. Participants who wish are very welcome to join us. Bring a full, 1-qt water bottle.
Questions? Contact the outing leader (tripsguy@aol.com).