Students learn skills necessary for leading an extended trip (3-10 days) on the waterways of northern New York or New England, including parts of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail. Students are involved in planning all aspects of the trip, including advertising, communication with clients, menus, route, equipment, and clothing.
Early in the class, students refine their paddling, portaging, navigation, cooking, and leadership skills. Written reports place the student in the role of a commercial canoeing outfitter with emphasis on detailed planning, risk management, instructional plans, and setting appropriate expectations for clients. Then the plans are put into practice, including teaching canoe skills, camp set-up, cooking meals,and navigating on the trip.
On the final trip students become the primary leaders for paying clients. In the Summer of 2011 we had 5 Craftsbury area children ages 11-15. In the summer of 2013 the clients were all adult women. This year we may work with Hosmer Point Camp or recruit our own clients. Appropriate waivers and menu plans will be produced and presented to the clients before the trip commences.
Course Faculty
Adrian Owens
Adrian grew up near a tidal river in Rhode Island which started his connection to the natural world. Teaching at Sterling since 1991. Married to Allison Van Akkeren. He enjoys…