Want to learn everything you need to know about whitewater parks, but were afraid to ask? Head to the third Whitewater Parks Conference in Salida, Colo., May 24-27, 2010 (and hop on the town’s newly improved play park afterward). PL checks in…
Participants will learn how over 100 projects similar to theirs around the world are improving rivers, offering new outdoor recreation opportunities and growing local economies when they convene. “Projects range in size from a single river surfing wave with bank side access to large capacity stadiums that pump water through a self-contained system, and they are all showcasing paddling to the general public,” says Ed Councill, CEO of event sponsor PIA.
“Sharing whitewater course experiences will enlighten participants and should dismantle misconceptions about the whitewater park concept,” adds co-organizer Risa Shimoda. “Paddlers catalyze whitewater park projects because they see opportunities before others might. But cities realize their value from their use by bikers, walkers and runners; river-based events, new retail establishments and value enhanced real estate.”
The conference will be held on the banks of the Arkansas River, whose whitewater course was designed by Recreation Engineering and Planning of Boulder, Colo. “While I am admittedly biased, the recently renovated Steamplant Conference Center is an excellent venue to host this conference, located on the river along the banks of the whitewater park,” says Mike Harvey, designer of Salida’s whitewater course. “We’re really looking forward to hosting communities and agencies from around the world.”
Mike’s firm Recreational Engineering and Planning is a conference sponsor, as is the McLaughlin Whitewater Design Group.