With a nod to North Water Paddle Sports Equipment, our next donation went to British Columbia Search and Rescue Association (BC SARA). This organization, based in Sidney, BC, coordinates the efforts of 80 search-and-rescue groups throughout the province. In turn, these teams utilize the work of 2,500 volunteers and annually respond to 1,700 incidents. BC SARA has worked with North Water in the past, and their collaboration resulted in North Water’s Rapid Survival System for first responders. We’d like to thank BC SARA and all of its teams and volunteers for the important work they do in western Canada. You can learn more about the group by going to: https://www.bcsara.com/

When we approached North Water Paddle Sports Equipment for sponsorship, we had a single request – one of its high-quality canoe spray decks. Given that the Southern Lakes section of the Yukon River, and Lake Laberge, can quickly go from calm water to big waves that can easily swamp a canoe, we were thrilled when Morgan Goldie and the North Water team agreed to become a primary sponsor. The made-to-order spray deck fit the canoe perfectly, was easy to install, and more than rugged enough to withstand the expedition’s time on the water. It also shed drenching rains, acted as a platform for our solar panels, and even doubled as a waterborne wheel barrow when we loaded and moved firewood around long rocky islands. This deck is tough, and absolutely 100-percent expedition worthy.

Why did we approach North Water Paddle Sports Equipment specifically for its spray deck? Because we’ve used North Water products for years, including its roomy kayak Expedition Deck Bag and its unique Coiled Paddle Leash, and paddle floats. All of these items have served us well, and it was a no-brainer to request sponsorship for the best spray deck in the paddling world. We also love that North Water is involved in charitable efforts to bring clean water to the developing world. Great products and a willingness to lend a hand make North Water one of the very best companies in North America. To learn more about North Water and its products, go to: https://northwater.com/