SHORELINES

19 Shor e l i n e S | 2016 Vol :3 an extension specialist with the 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Education division of ACES, who conducted oyster research in West Africa using dug-out canoes and performed aquatic field research using canoes and kayaks on the Tallapoosa River. "I've had many great experiences by way of paddling," Nichols says. "I've reaped many benefits personally and professionally from spending time on waterways. I was all in." The effect of the partnership forged in 2015 was immediate. "Suddenly, we had instructors whose backgrounds had been checked by the rigorous 4-H vetting process," Felder says. "We had sophisticated registration. We had instructors who were certified in various levels of emergency medical training and wilderness medicine. And, suddenly, a whole world of educational tie-ins opened up to us." 4-H RiverKids classes are operated by participating ACES offices and vary from county to county; some are one-day-a-month events while others are a series of meetings. Once young kayakers are trained, ACES instructors conduct float trips combining fun and education. Instruction includes topography, history and culture of the area; how an aquatic ecosystem functions; the role of waterways in the historical development of Alabama; and the imperative of wearing a life jacket. Above: Photo by Joe deScioSe — The entire 4-H Riverkids class of Andrew Paul, Aidan Paul, Chloe Wilson (Limestone County 4-H Foundation Agent), Nathan Kawell, Michael Savitz, Grace Wilson, Charity Battles (Shelby County 4-H Foundation Agent) navigate the Cooosa River.

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