Those of us who take to the water in human powered watercraft have a very special relationship with our environment. Whether we are paddling in a protected harbor or crossing the Atlantic, each stroke we make is a wonderful example of the laws of Physics. We are the engine. And we are always one with nature’s wind, waves and tides. Our senses are alive as we feel the fluid motion through our arms and body. Special? Incredibly so.
The Human Powered Watercraft Association is here to help protect that special relationship.
I’ve been an activist and environmentalist my entire life. My ocean hero, Jacques-Yves Cousteau, inspired me to be a “waterman;” to learn about our oceans and to explore solutions to the many challenges we face. Those of us who paddle our way along are most affected by the air and water pollution, over development, and commercial interests that threaten our health, enjoyment, and open access to our water world.
Around our country private and public marinas are eliminating small boats in favor of larger yachts; they like the slower turn-over and deep pockets of their wealthy renters. Following this trend, access for car-top boards and boats is often reduced or eliminated. Developers want to cater to well-healed visitors who spend large at their swanky shops, restaurants and hotels. The self-reliant group of paddlers is no match for bed taxes and parking meter revenue.
I seldom return from a paddle without a collection of floating garbage. Paddlers don’t skim over the water’s surface; we flow through it and we see first-hand the level of flotsam entering our playground. Unfiltered urban run-off carries boat-loads of plastic along with viruses and bacteria that we cannot see. We are exposed and in a unique position to document this and demand solutions. The health and survival of our waterways will ultimately depend on it.
Who is the Human Powered Watercraft Association? If you love the water and you enjoy the very special relationship that comes from propelling yourself through our most precious natural resource, then the HPWA is you.
Please join us in our collaborative efforts to protect the environment and our access to it!
Steven Alan Fry