RUMFORD — Paddlers of all ages and abilities are invited for a day on the Androscoggin River in Rumford on Saturday, Oct 1.

The event is sponsored by the Androscoggin River Watershed Council, the Mahoosuc Land Trust and the River Valley Growth Council.

One of the Androscoggin River Watershed Council’s purposes is to Promote recreational uses, especially through more access and responsible, low-impact activities.

Jim Rinaldo, executive director of the River Valley Growth Council, said,  “We’re so excited about this event because the Androscoggin is such a great asset to our community, and we want to encourage people to get out and enjoy it.”

There will be two trips down the river, a longer one will start at 9 a.m. at the boat landing at the Hanover Town Hall. The first run will meet up with a second group of paddlers at the Madison Motor Inn on Route 2 in Rumford at 10:30 a.m. 

From there the two groups will continue down the Androscoggin and end the day at the Rumford river access near McDonald’s in Rumford.

Canoes will be provided free of charge by Bruce Powell, owner of Grafton Notch Campground, for those who do not have their own boats. The campground is also providing shuttle service back to the starting point.

The outdoor outfitter Ecopelagicon of Rangeley will have kayaks to try out for free from 10 a.m. to noon and instructors will be on hand for the event.

Also, the River Valley Growth Council will be offering a free barbecue for all participants once the paddlers have completed their trip down the river.

“The section of river between Hanover and Rumford is a perfect, easy but beautiful paddle that anyone can enjoy,” said Jesse Perkins of the Androscoggin River Watershed Council. “With foliage nearing its peak on the surrounding hillsides, it should be a fantastic day.”

Anyone wanting to reserve a canoe for the event is asked to contact Rinaldo at 364-2983 or by email at jimrinaldo@yahoo.com

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