For decades, the White River has been enjoyed by thousands seeking adventure or a relaxing summer afternoon, but nearby organizations are looking to shake things up a bit.
The White River Alliance is kicking things into high gear with the 2024 Paddle Days and Festival Races June 14 to 16 at locations in Daleville, Indianapolis, and Noblesville. The festival lasts for three days, filled with live music and plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and race with friends and family.
The Alliance is a 16-county consortium of local governments, industries, utilities, universities, agriculture organizations, and regional community members that work together to steward the river and its watershed. Their ultimate goal is to protect and improve the quality of water resources in central Indiana.
Maintaining the quality of the water is essential for agricultural and safe community use, but there’s limited financial support and ever-changing regulations.
“Getting people out and recreating on the water is the first step to getting more folks invested in water issues,” explained London Heist, the White River Alliance’s Community Outreach Coordinator. “These races are a great way to get more people interacting with our waterways, making them more likely to care about water quality and its advocacy.”
By drawing in new visitors, they hope to expose locals to the importance of having accessible water sources and nature conservation.
Awards will be handed out to the first three finishers by boat type: canoes, tandem kayaks, and kayaks. If your team races in themed outfits or costumes, you will be entered for a chance to win the team spirit award. Enter all three races at Daleville’s Canoe Country, Indianapolis’s Frank’s Paddlesports Livery and Noblesville’s White River Canoe Company, and you will be entered for the participation award.
Participants and spectators can also earn points through the free Discover White River Rewards Pass by attending any of the races, which can be redeemed for exclusive prizes like stickers, T-shirts and on-water experiences.
Registration for the event is required for all paddlers and will cover canoe or kayak rentals, food, entertainment, and fundraising for the Alliance.
In addition to the White River Paddle Days and Festival, the Alliance’s programs include the Indiana Water Summit, the national Clear Choices Clean Water program, the River Assessment Field Team (RAFT) and several other regional public engagement and professional training programs.
As more people are moving to Indianapolis and its surrounding cities, there’s many opportunities to introduce newcomers and long-time residents to what all White River has to offer. Anyone of any canoeing or kayaking experience is welcome to join in on the fun.
To learn more about the White River Alliance and its mission, visit thewhiteriveralliance.org.