The Kentucky Waterman Series reignited Blazing Saddles and Cuyahoga50 this past weekend commemorating the 50th anniversary of the massive fire on Cleveland’s Cuyahoga River.

Cuyahoga River Fire, Cleveland Ohio
The Cuyahoga River caught fire several times between 1868 and 1969 due to its becoming so polluted with oil, cyanide and other industrial waste products. For several years, the river was devoid of life on the stretch between Akron to Cleveland, Ohio with algae being the lone flora & fauna that could even exist in such a compromised ecosystem. The fires on the river sparked the development of the Clean Water Act, the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and many other environmental protection initiatives.

Kentucky Waterman’s Series: Blazing Paddles, Cleveland Ohio
Over the past several months, I have had the privilege of working with Jim Ridge of Share the River to grow the 2nd Annual Blazing Paddles Paddleboard, Kayak & Canoe Paddlefest into an event that showcases the reclamation efforts on the Cuyahoga and be a part of our Kentucky Waterman Series this year. The event literally blew up overnight with over 250 paddlers from across the country in attendance and 100% of the proceeds going to support efforts to preserve and maintain clean waterways in the Cleveland area.

I also finally had the chance to meet Doug Vojtko of the Midwest Paddle League and talk shop!
Written by: Gerry Seavo James
Skyline Photo Credit: Ron Skinner
It is amazing what we can do when we come together to protect our waters! Aloha, Gerry Seavo for your efforts in keeping the stoke rising and educating others about ways we can protect our watery playground.
Kentucky Waterman Series: A Paddle for Every Water Athlete
For more information on the Kentucky Waterman Series, check out their website at:
https://www.explorekentucky.us/kentuckywatermanseries
Follow them on Facebook: @kentuckywatermanseries
Or Instagram: @kentuckywaterman
There are 8 events between July 6th and October 5th, 2019 wherein you can participate on the great lakes & waters of Ohio & Kentucky! Stay tuned for MORE from this dynamic series celebrating the great state of Kentucky & beyond.