Arkansas Canoe Club Forums

mvhyde wrote:As far as water quality goes, has anyone ever done a study of the Cossatot? How much chicken poop and fertilizer and other stuff washes into it when it rains? Water quality sucks everywhere, even in so-called pristine Colorado creeks and rivers. I'll take some of the stuff that gets into the water here over the constant heavy metals you find up there.

As a matter of fact the USGS conducted a ten year study of the Cassatot and found that "the effect of pasture land and rural residential areas on water quality during the sampling period was minimal."
In addition, the GORP stated this about Cassatot's water quality: Not only is the water quality high, but the stream features Class III, IV and even Class V rapids, making it a favorite with skilled canoeists, rafters and kayakers.
For the record I'm not dissing the Trinity River, Dallas Whitewater Park or any part of the great state of Texas for that matter. If anything I hope that this thread raises awareness of water quality issues not just at the Dallas Whitewater Park, but everywhere in this great land. For awareness is the first step in fixing our troubled waters. I'm very proud of our waters here in Arkansas. However, I am thankful and excited for the Dallas Whitewater Park and I plan on making many trips down I-75 to visit. Making sure I slow down through Atoka County, Oklahoma of course.

Link to USGS's report:
http://pubs.usgs.gov/circ/circ1173/circ ... pter01.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Link to GORP's review on Cossatot River State Park:
http://www.gorp.com/parks-guide/travel- ... 53760.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

We stopped by the construction site on our way back from the Brazos. Snapped some pics to show the progress. The river is completely dammed and there is a large area of exposed riverbed. Looks like they are still pumping out the riverbed to get it dry enough to begin construction.

http://outdoors.webshots.com/album/578529008QxXqmh" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Big Daddy D, any progress to report on the park there?

According to two different sources I contacted this week, they are estimating it will be open by Spring 2011. One thought it would be end of February, the other thought March. This is based on current progress and the time necessary for the contractor to remove equipment and do final clean up so paddlers don't get hurt.

If you happen to be heading to Dallas this spring, bring your boat (preferably an ultra light carbon-fiber European playboat since that is the future of freestyle ) and make sure you're up on all your shots.

BDD

I'll be there March 1st. can't wait.

Pics as of 11.14.10:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/flipit/517 ... /lightbox/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Wow! That is some project! Can't wait to make a trip to Big D for some kayaking?!?!!?!?

Kewl!