Boone News Republican

June 26, 2000

by Chuck Hackenmiller

More than 50 people from Boone and central Iowa gathered on the banks of the Des Moines River near Fraser to promote Iowa Rivers 2000 Month during June.

However, one more incentive was evident as Gerry Rowland, a consultant with the State Library of Iowa and also a canoe enthusiast, joined others, including Iowa Lt. Gov. Sally Pederson, in rowing on the Des Moines River.

Rowland, an advocate of rowing on Iowa rivers, was promoting the Des Moines River Water Trail. (Photo caption: Gerry Rowland holds up a sign designating the Des Moines River as a water trail.)

The Des Moines River flows through Boone County and 18 other counties, with about 60 access points to the river, from Estherville to Keokuk. It flows through Iowa for more than 400 miles and drains nearly a fourth of the state.

Pederson Saturday presented Rowland with an "Iowa Rivers Month" proclamation signed by Gov. Tom Vilsack, who couldn’t attend the Des Moines river rowing adventure because of his "Walk Across Iowa" commitment, according to Pederson.

"He’s walked more than 125 miles, so he probably wouldn’t mind soaking his feet in water right now," she said.

In the proclamation, it stated that Iowa’s rivers and streams provide outstanding environmental conservation, economic and recreational benefits and provide valuable outdoor experiences.

The proclamation, Vilsack stated, "helps promote awareness and appreciation for the vital role rivers and streams play in the overall quality of life in this country, and encourages personal and collective stewardship of these resources."

Pederson told the audience it’s been 15 years since she’s been in a canoe. She said it is important to promote and be good stewards of Iowa rivers.

With recent reports of reasons why so many young people are leaving the state, Iowa rivers known for their recreational value can help attract young people to come, or to stay in the state, she said.

Seven Oaks Recreation of Boone provided most of the canoes for the trip from the Fraser site to the Boone Y camp, where those in the group were treated to lunch.

Boone County Transportation and the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad offered transportation to and from the canoe sites.