This paddle is from Lassiter Mill to Low Water Bridge at Ophir. Will is scouting this float for an outing he is leading at the end of the month. We are looking for any hazards that might be along this section. Strainers from recent flooding are our main concern.
We start be offloading the kayaks and stashing them under the High Pine Church Road bridge on river left. As we make the drive to Low Water Bridge, a "High Water" signs greets us. Fortunately, the water level has receded to just below the bridge surface. While checking out the take out spot, we watch a couple fellows shove their loaded canoe off for a 2 night river trip. We both note that nothing is tied down in the canoe.
As we peel off into the Uwharrie, we note the very quick current we are in. Will thinks it is 3-4 mph. That will make for a pleasant float. Recent flooding has swept the banks clean of everything. We see debris lodged in trees, well above us. Something there is a sizable log lodged 10 to 15 feet above.
After a quick stop at Burney Mill, we spot some Black Vultures taking turns eating something in the river. Although, we could smell it, we could not get a good look at what it was. The Vultures do not fly off, even as we paddle right up to them.
Our next stop is a creek on river left. We paddle up for a short distance, beach the boats and hop out. This area also suffered from the recent flooding. The structure on stilts was turned over. Some of the roof was wedged in a tree at the mouth of the creek.
Many tributaries are flowing nicely today. We paddle up another one - Big Creek. Again we beach the boats and explore a bit. This creek has suffered some damage from downed trees and lots of debris along the banks. This is a very pretty creek with a nice water color.
Big Creek
Shortly after we left Big Creek, a Bald Eagle flew up in a tree right in front of us. We watched it for a minute or two. It tolerated us being right below it.
Then it was a quick paddle to Low Water Bridge and an easy take out.
No comments:
Post a Comment