Lucy Anstey, Sanna Saare, Merrillee and Allison Guy raise the colors on a somewhat shaky platform, the waters of the Santa Fe River.
Following the press release and public speaking at the Suwannee River Water Management District on Dec. 10, a large group went to the banks of the Santa Fe River a short distance upstream of Rum Island spring and launched their kayaks and canoes.
None of the participants paid a penny for the vessels rental nor the shuttle. Jim Wood of Canoe Outpost and Merrillee and Doug Jipson of Rum 138 provided equipment at reduced rates and OSFR picked up the tab. Our thanks to these great outfitters for their assistance.
Conceived and coordinated by OSFR board member Merrillee, this first Kayativism turned out to be a huge success as our enthusiasm and exhibitionism garnered us press which furthered OSFR’s mission of education.
Many people who love the river are unaware of the crisis we have in our backyard, with a local family who runs a popular campground and dive center also involved in pumping water from our springs and river and selling it to whom some call the “Devil Encarnate” or Nestle. Nestle and Seven Springs claim the river is sustainable, but proof that it is not is the fact that the water management district has deemed it to be in recovery, since it is below its minimum flows.
Aline Kozokas and Mike Kern
Allison Guy from SomeOfUs in WashingtonHilda GilchristAllison Guy with Tris Meucci immediately behind.Allison9 Guy, Michelle “Mermaid” Colson, Merrillee try to raise uncooperative banner. Michelle traveled with Armada in the water for the whole two-mile plus trip.
Most of the kayaktivists lined up on the north side of Ginnie Spring. They were noisy and loud, but no one in authority from Ginny Springs campground appeared. The family which owns the campground profits from pumping water from this river that is in recovery and below its minimum flow.President Mike Roth and ex-president Pam Smith
Whoa. Kristin Rubin, active advocate, works to maintain control.This is often the view we have of Michelle “Mermaid” Colson, cavorting in the spring.Event organizer Merrillee Malwitz-Jipson, co-owner of Rum 138, who strives tirelessly to preserve our water wonders for her kids and future generations. Nature lovers owe her much more than they realize.
Cindy Noel, OSFR treasurer, Maryann Smith and Sara Younger, power advocate for the planet.
Scotti and Sara Jay, frequent visitors from Georgia who love our springs and rivers. And they do their part to preserve them.
Toni MacIntosh Danny Arnold, Orlando
A rare moment when Merrillee is sitting still. Thanks to her inspirations and skills many more people are educated about our water crises. Many of our so-called leaders are not aware of the fragility of our water. Many others simply don’t care. Notice the high-water mark on tree in upper left.
Comments by OSFR historian Jim Tatum. -A river is like a life: once taken, it cannot be brought back-
2 Comments
What a beautiful little river! And people!–I profoundly appreciate your activism!!!!!!
2 Comments
What a beautiful little river! And people!–I profoundly appreciate your activism!!!!!!
NO!!!