Friends of Messalonskee to offers kayak, conservation class for seniors

SIDNEY — Friends of Messalonskee Lake Association will offer free classes in kayaking, plant identification and watershed ecology to those 60 and older in collaboration with Regional School Unit 8 Adult Education.
The classes will be 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 15 and Aug. 19 at Snow Pond Center for the Arts, Route 23.
There will be two classes of eight people each. The class is designed to create more access for those who may not have an easy way to get on the lake and enjoy the opportunities it affords, such as birding and exercise. All equipment is provided, including open kayaks for easy entry and exit.
A short class on how to identify helpful native plants versus harmful nonnative plants (like variable leaf milfoil) and how human actions influence the watershed overall will be followed by paddle techniques.
Mike Guarino, a paddle instructor and president of Friends Of Messalonksee believes “personal safety is paramount when it comes to having fun on the water.” The organization wants to encourage novice water-goers to participate in a paddle without fear for their safety. Paddlers will be suited with a personal floatation device, learn basic paddling safety, and paddle near shore to collect and identify plants, while having an enjoyable and safe experience on the water.
Given appropriate time and weather, students will be asked back for an additional paddle before summer ends. The program is modeled on the Lake Stewards of Maine statewide Invasive Plant Paddler program. If participants enjoy the experience, the program offers ways to stay involved. The program is funded by Roger N Heald Fund, Maine Community Foundation.
Participants must know the basics of swimming. Register for the class online at www.midmaine.maineadulted.org – under Enrichment classes or call 207-618-8723.