MI Paddle Stewards Train the Trainer Course
Tue, Jul 22
|Ellsworth River Park
This free, half-day “train-the-trainer” course is designed for paddlers who want to help protect Michigan’s waterways by learning how to identify and report aquatic invasive species. Participants will also learn how to properly decontaminate paddlecraft to prevent the spread of these species.
Time & Location
Jul 22, 2025, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Ellsworth River Park, 6625 Bridge St, Ellsworth, MI 49729, USA
About the event
About the MI Paddle Stewards Training 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
This free, half-day “train-the-trainer” course is designed for paddlers who want to help protect Michigan’s waterways by learning how to identify and report aquatic invasive species. Participants will also learn how to properly decontaminate paddlecraft to prevent the spread of these species.
You must register for this event through the Michigan State University ANR Events Management System linked here.
MI Paddle Stewards Training | 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM ET
Kayak Skills & Safety Training (optional) | 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM ET
Who should attend?
Those interested in teaching others about invasive species prevention
Paddlers with at least five previous paddling experiences
No prior experience with aquatic invasive species identification is required, but participants must complete the online MI Paddle Stewards course (offered through Michigan State University’s Desire2Learn platform) before attending.
Kayak Skills & Safety Training (Optional Add-On) 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Enhance your paddling confidence with this additional half-day training! Participants will learn essential safety skills, including how to:
Identify and avoid potential hazards on the water
Practice self-rescue techniques
Manage minor in-water incidents
What to Bring:
Water bottle
Sack lunch
Sunblock
Weather-appropriate clothing
This is a free event, but registration is required. Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your paddling skills while making a difference in protecting our waterways!