2017 Festival - June 24-25

W W W . W A T E R T R A I L S F E S T I V A L . C O M

A SUPPLEMENT OF THE BAINBRIDGE REVIEW, CENTRAL KITSAP REPORTER, NORTH KITSAP HERALD AND PORT ORCHARD INDEPENDENT

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

JUNE 23, 2017

Welcome to the 2017 Kitsap Water Trails Festival

Port Orchard • Kitsap Rowing and Sailboats on Dyes Inlet • Water safety class – Silverdale Waterfront continues throughout the day • Cardboard boat racing at 3:30 p.m.

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

Enjoy two days of music, food, sports and activities celebrating the majestic and diverse natural resources of the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails, officially designated by the U.S. Department of Interior to be part of the National Water Trails System, and the only nationally designated salt water trail in the U.S. Multi-city events include the Silverdale “Riot With out a Paddle” 5K and 1K run, outrigger race, waterfront bike ride, 5K trail walk, and family paddle. On the Silverdale Waterfront: (both days) • Family entertainment, food, music games, arts & crafts, boating demonstrations • Tours of Carlisle II (mosquito fleet) • Peer the Pier, view what’s underwater • Kitsap Sailing & Rowing - entertainment on the water Countywide events on Saturday, June 24: • Ride the Tide Organized Kayak and Paddle begins on the water at 1:30 p.m. • Family paddle from Silverdale Waterfront to Anna Smith Park and back, 1:30 p.m. • Silverdale Outrigger Club Annual Regattas and Sprint Races begins at 8 a.m. through 2 p.m.

Participants in the 2016 Water Trails’ “Ride the Tide” prepare for their journey on Dyes Inlet. More than 100 paddlers are expected this year. Contributed photo • Suquamish Tribal Canoe Greetings and Tribal Blessing, approximately 5 p.m. • Celebration Ceremony at 5 p.m. • Veggie Fest all day • Fly Over by the NW Beachboys • Build cardboard boats noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and race them on Sunday

Introducing the new Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trail Inter-Active Map! The map is mobile friendly and features info about 84 popular locations that offer access for a variety of watercraft and skill levels around the region. Check it out today! KPNWT website & inter-active map funded by Kitsap County, Visit Kitsap Peninsula and Tourism/Lodging Tax Fund Partners.

www.kitsappeninsulawatertrails.com

Countywide events Sunday, June 25: • Bike Ride Around Dyes Inlet (West Sound Cycle Club) all day • Riot Without a Paddle 5K Run at 9 a.m. • Port paddles throughout the region, all day • Dinghy Races at noon in Port Orchard • SCHS Rowing Races at 2:30 p.m. in

Bainbridge Island

About the events: RawFuel VegFest is a not-to-miss event; featuring a vegetarian feast; seasonal produce displays, workshops about plant based diets, exercise and maintaining wellness, exhibits, free plant-based food samples, cooking demonstrations and musical entertainment. Hear-See-Interact, learn to improve and maintain your health and wellness naturally. Don’t miss your chance to run along the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails in the Riot Without A Paddle 5K, one of the featured races of the Water Trails Festival. Gorgeous views. Beginner friendly trail/paved trail – Clear Creek Trail. Podium, finisher and age group awards. Free Kids’ Dash and 1K option. Begins 9 a.m. Sunday at Silverdale Waterfront Park, 3337 NW Byron St., Silverdale. For more on all these events go to www.watertrailsfestival.com ON THE COVER: The Clam Island Rowers on the water in early morning. Photo from Clam Island Rowers.

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

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He’s the man who started the Water Trails Festival

ticipants back to Evergreen Park. Kuntz said the work to promote the Kitsap Water Trails isn’t finished. The group is working on rolling out a new website, which will match the map where paddlers can click on spots along the trail and see the services that are available at each stopping point. There’s also a phone app that is expected to be working by festival time. There’s been talk of moving the main events of the festival to various communities and ports along the trail in coming years, but that will depend on sponsorships. For now, what Kuntz is really working toward, is getting every single resident of Kitsap County to know about the water trail. “As long as that’s the focus, and as long as we’re getting people to come out and enjoy these public spaces, we’re happy,” he said.

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

It’s a far cry from the water trail that John Kuntz paddled back in 1992. Although the route is much the same, many improvements have been made, and the Kitsap Water Trails has much more notoriety. Kuntz, owner of Olympic Outdoors sports centers, is credited with being the person who made the water trails happen in Kitsap County. “Back in about 1996, a friend and I paddled the whole peninsula from Belfair to Allyn. It’s about 150 miles and we really thought it was cool.” After that Kuntz got the idea to make the water trail a recognized public route for watercraft. “The real thing was that so much of the shoreline was going away, being bought by private companies and individuals,” he said. “We knew if we didn’t do something, it would all go away. We wanted to create something that would last and would benefit everybody.” In 2008, Kuntz joined the North Kitsap Trails Association and was put in charge of the water trails. “We put a plan together,” he said. “We visited sites along the way and we got the paddle club behind us.” Then in 2010, Kuntz sought the help of Patty Graf-Hoke, executive director of Visit Kitsap tourism organization. “I was going to Paddle Fest in Seattle,” he said. “I told Patty I needed something I could hand out to paddlers at that event to tell them about what we were doing here.” Kuntz gave some to officials of REI, Inc., at the paddle event and they were excited about putting them in their stores. Eventually that brochure became the Water Trails map that is available today. Work was underway and the group got county approval. They hosted 32 town meetings throughout the route and in asking for comments, got a 86 percent approval rate, that if there was an official water trail, it would be used. “We started to think that the trail should be broken down into lengths that could be done individually, if people didn’t want to do the entire route,” he said. “We knew people would be drawn to it if there were stops along the way where they could rest or get something to eat.” That is why the Kitsap Water Trails is called trails, with a “s,” because there are really a number of trails within the trail, organizers said. By 2013, the cities, communities, Native American Tribes and the ports along the trail were on board and eventually a Water Trails Alliance was formed, with representation from those places. Today, that alliance helps govern what happens with the Kitsap Water Trails. The next step was to get the local trail on the National Water Trails system. The group applied to the U.S. Parks Service and was approved. “At that time there were less than 20 water trails in the U.S. and we were the only salt water trail,” Kuntz said. Most of the others are on rivers, he added. In June 2014, the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails was designated a National Water Trail by the National Park Service. This prestigious designation is only one of a handful in the U.S. The 371-mile trail

John Kuntz leads a group of kayakers in the “Ride the Tide.” It’s named for the fact that the paddlers go with the tide. Debbie Gilman photo

Two kayakers enjoy the view as they paddle to the Silverdale Waterfront Park during the 2016 Ride the Tide. Contributed photo encompasses all of the Kitsap Peninsula and is one of the most spectacular paddling destinations in the world, Kuntz said. “The real success is that we’ve saved beaches for public use,” he said. “And not just for kayakers. The trail is meant to attract all types of water activity, including people who just want to come down to the beach for a picnic or to go clamming.” It was in 2014 at the celebration of the water trail becoming part of the national system, that Kuntz and others formally began the Water Trails Festival. Although there had been a festival of sorts prior, this is the fourth year for the official annual water trails festival. “The trail is a huge draw for tourism,” Kuntz said. “In Kitsap County, we don’t have a Safeco Field, or a big air museum, or a LeMay Car Museum. But we have the beauty of our land and water and mountains. People come here to see the great views of the Olympic Mountains. And it’s a plus that they can get out on the water and do things.” Part of the reason for continuing the festival is to draw tourism to Kitsap, Kuntz said. But it’s also a time for locals

who aren’t water people to get familiar with Kitsap’s beaches and waterways. Additionally, he said, Kitsap’s waters have some of the best marine environments where orcas and seals can often be viewed. The best way to “take it all in” he said is to participate in the Ride the Tide event on Saturday. Folks, up to possibly 120, put kayaks in the water about 1:30 p.m. at Evergreen Park in Bremerton and paddle with the tide to the Silverdale waterfront. And this year there is a family-friendly ride from the waterfront to Anna Smith Park and back. “The paddle is called Ride the Tide for good reason,” Kuntz said. “We will take advantage of the current in the Port Washington Narrows to provide a significant push for much of the paddle. The total paddle distance is about five miles and will take two to three hours to complete.” Once they reach Silverdale, they will be met by members of the local Suquamish Tribe who will escort them to shore. At the Silverdale Waterfront, there will be an optional shuttle available to take par-

Everything you need to know: Ride the Tide includes a paddle snack and drink pack, a donation to Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails, five raffle tickets, shuttle ride and access to kayak and paddle board demonstrations at the festival. Cost: $30 Here’s the timeline for the day: 9 a.m. — Shuttle check-in opens at the Silverdale Boat Ramp 10:45 a.m. — Silverdale Shuttle check-in closes 11 a.m. — Shuttle Departs from Silverdale to Bremerton Noon - Check-in opens at Evergreen Park 12:45 p.m. — Evergreen check-in closes 1 p.m.- Mandatory paddler safety talk 1:30 p.m. -— Paddlers depart Evergreen Park 4:30 p.m. — Paddlers rendezvous on water for procession into Silverdale 5 p.m. — Water Trail ceremony followed by raffle Where to meet: Silverdale Waterfront Park, 3337 NW Byron St., Silverdale Unload your boat and equipment at the boat ramp then find a place to park your car. This may be several blocks away so give yourself plenty of time. A shuttle will be available to take you and your equipment from Silverdale to the launch at Evergreen Rotary Park, 1500 Park Ave. in Bremerton. A shuttle will be available to take you and your equipment back to Silverdale to Evergreen Park in Bremerton after the event. Here’s what to wear and bring: Sun hat Sun screen and lip balm Comfortable shoes that can get wet Outdoor clothing that can get wet All electronics in waterproof cases or double ziplock bags Leave a change of clothes in your car For more, go to Kuntz’s business website at www.Olympicoutdoorcenter. com, or checkout 18743 Front St. NE, in Poulsbo, phone: 360-297-4659. There are locations in Port Gamble and Silverdale, too.

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

Water Trails goes live with a new interactive map for paddlers By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

Thanks to a grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce and Lodging Tax funds from Kitsap County, residents and visitors now have an interactive map that offer information about 84 of the most popular locations on the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails (KPNWT). New inter-active map is mobile friendly and in addition to providing details about the name, owner, street address and co-ordiantes for each location, the pop-up box including details about type of launch, parking, restrooms, amenities and services available at the location or nearby including rental and lodging. The map features a legend that allows users to filter results by area, type of amenity and recreation activity. According to Patricia Graf-Hoke, director, Visit Kitsap Peninsula, the goal of the new inter-active map was to create a digital, GPS access to information about KPNWT locations, especially on hand-held digital devices.

“Weather and location play a major role in planning when and where to enjoy a water trail experience and today people of all ages use smart phones to find the information about the best time and place to launch their water-craft. We also include information about lodging, dining, retail and other services designed to promote local businesses and generate economic benefits”, GrafHoke said. The project included development of a totally new website dedicated to the Kitsap Peninsula National Water Trails which now has its own website address; www. KitsapPeninsulaWaterTrails. com. Previously, information about the KPNWT was part of the www.VisitKitsap.

com website. The new site including information about the history of the KPNWT, links to resources, safety information and the KPNWT Alliance comprised of representatives from Kitsap, Mason and Pierce County, local tribes, port districts and user groups. The Alliance estimates there are approximately 350 potential water trail access points around the 371-mile water trail system. Many of the access points offer limited amenities, water access only or used as rest stops for those on longer journeys and will be added to the interactive map in the future. Plans also include adding more photos, videos, blog posts and eventually a Facebook page. Visit Kitsap Peninsula, which was responsible for development of the original marketing strategies that launched the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails in 2010, collaborated with staff at Kitsap County and Olympic Outdoor Center, on the inter-active map and new website.

JUNE 23, 2017

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

JUNE 23, 2017

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Water sports bring economic boost to Kitsap County By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

When most people hear the term “water trails” they think about folks in man-powered boats. They think kayaks, canoes and paddle boards. But the Kitsap Water Trails, and its designation as part of the National Water Trails system, means much more. According to local officials and business owners, having that designation, and being part of the National Water Trails and the Washington Water Trails Association, means tourism dollars and a boost to the local economy. Patricia Graf-Hoke, executive director of Visit Kitsap Peninsula, the region’s official tourism development agency, said it means national and even international attention and the opportunity to attract more outdoor recreation visitors. “Over the past few years Visit Kitsap Peninsula has successfully generated some excellent national coverage for the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails including the most recent article in Canoe & Kayak which also named Poulsbo among the Best Paddling Towns in North America,” Graf-Hoke said. “Our goal is to attract kayakers from all around the USA and the world.” In May 2014, the U.S. Department of Interior, approved Kitsap County’s application to have the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails added to the National Water Trails System. Since then, the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails has been featured many times

The designation as part of the National Water Trails system has brought visitors to Kitsap County for water sports and other entertainment. Contributed photo in outdoor publications, National Park publications and local, regional newspapers. “The national designation of the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails has generated significant exposure for the region and is a big boost for our reputation as a major destination for outdoor recreation activities,” she said. “While much of the focus of the water trails tends to be on paddling, it also includes other water related activities including sailing, stand-up paddle boards,

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tribal canoes, outriggers, boating and fishing.” Kitsap already is a popular destination for cycling, mountain biking and marathons, she said. The national designation of the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails continues to provide another opportunity to build on the region-wide brand identity, the “Natural Side of Puget Sound,” that Visit Kitsap has been promoting since 2009, Graf-Hoke added. Graf-Hoke was one of 16 industry leaders appointed by Gov. Jay Inslee to a Blue Ribbon Task for Parks & Outdoor Recreation. The Task Force was charged with looking at the economic impact of outdoor recreation and short and longterm funding strategies. To help identify the economic benefits of outdoor recreation, waterways and parks, Washington State hired Earth Economics to conduct a study and prepare a report which was released in 2015. Key findings in the report showed that recreation associated with “public waters” generates the highest expenditures. Other findings in the report indicate that $21.6 billion is spent every year in Washington state on outdoor recreational trips and equipment across all recreational land those expenditures generate about $20.5 billion in state economic contributions. Washington residents average 27 visits per year to local parks, making local parks the most visited land type for outdoor recreation. The Earth Economic report ranked Kitsap fourth in the state in employment with 6,700 jobs attributed to outdoor recreation, and sixth with $700 million in sales and expenditures related to outdoor recreation activities and visitors. The Visit Kitsap Peninsula board decided in 2009 to make Kitsap’s natural environment and outdoor recreation assets a primary focus of its focus its branding, marketing and tourism strategy. Since it didn’t have the advantage of mega hotels, sport complex or large conference center, the board decide instead, to take advantage of the region’s close proximity to Seattle/Tacoma and the Eastside (Bellevue) metro area and target urban employees and dwellers. “The Earth Economic’s study and the national water designation definitely

validates the VKP’s decision to target outdoor recreation visitors,” said Graf-Hoke. “It’s a logical way to help diversity in the economy and help hoteliers increase sales among leisure travelers which have more disposable income and can pay higher room rates versus government travelers which are capped at a lower per-diem rate.” It’s a strategy that appears to be reaping positive results for local government and hotels, she said. According to recent Smith Travel Reports, lodging revenues for Kitsap County have increased more than 15 percent over the past two years and in some cases up 23 percent month to month. Jim Rothlin, CEO Port of Bremerton, said the port wants to be a part of water recreation activities because that enhances the marinas it oversees. “The Port strongly supports the efforts of the water trails events and have met with the group to discuss ways the Port can contribute,” Rothlin said. “I appreciate the vision to make this an event that is visited annually by travelers from all over. We are working on providing facilities to help with the promotion of the water and non-water events. The success of this event creates more interest in the beautiful surroundings our county has to offer, increases our economic viability and who knows, maybe even sparks interest in moving more business to the area to create more jobs, which is our ultimate mission.” And, the water trails are being enjoyed by more than boaters. It’s spawning improvements to docks and marinas along its route that are also used by day hikers and those who fish. And it’s increased the number of folks who enjoy other water sports such as scuba diving and underwater photography, local business owners said. Poulsbo is also stop along the water trails that benefits. “It can’t be anything but good for the town, if it helps promote the water and use of the water,” said Brad Miller, director of the Port of Poulsbo. “If those visitors shop and eat and stay in Poulsbo, that definitely will have a positive impact. The Poulsbo Marina has been a popular launching point for kayakers for many years, and will remain so for many more to come.” Jerry Rowland, manager at the Port of Brownsville, is a fan of the water trails, too. “It’s bringing more people to Kitsap County,” he said. “Instead of this being the place they travel through to get to somewhere else, they’re stopping and enjoying the view of our countryside from the water.” While the Brownsville dock is small and doesn’t have a lot of amenities, he said he’s seeing more people use it as a place to launch their kayaks or stop off for a rest while kayaking. “I’m excited about it,” he said. “It’s great that it is happening.” Another small town that has been helped by the water trails is Tracyton. Two years ago, the Port of Tracyton did work to its dock and added a rest area for kayakers. There are picnicking areas nearby and a small grocery store and a pub. It is one of the stops along the way on the Kitsap Water Trails map.

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

JUNE 23, 2017

Build a boat and then take it for a spin on the inlet By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

There’s an opportunity to become the skipper of your own boat at Water Trails this year. The “Chamber Games” will include a build-your-own-boat session on Saturday and then you’ll be able to race it on Sunday along the Silverdale Waterfront. The only requirement, however, is that you can only use cardboard and duct tape. “We’re expecting at least five teams,” said organizer Jason Wright, a member of the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce. “But anyone can just come out and join in the fun.” Teams will need to be two or four people strong. From noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 24, boat-building will take place in the Waterfront Park. From 4 to 6 p.m. the boats will be on display and visitors can vote for the

“most creative” boat. At 6 p.m. a winner will be named and will receive a night and dinner at the Oxford Suites in Silverdale. There is also a raffle for a prize. There will be some basic sheets of cardboard, colorful duct tape and box knives available for those who plan to build a boat. Participants are encouraged to bring their own supplies, including tubes, etc., as long as they are made of cardboard. And there will be the option of using a sealer on your boat, to help keep out the water on race day. “We’re hoping people will get into the colorful tape and really make their boats unique,” he said. “And each boat needs a banner to tell the team name or sponsor of the boat.” Boats are allowed to be three feet wide and up to six feet long. Teams can also make oars from cardboard to use in the race if they desire. A

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team member will be allowed to man the boat in the race, while other team members are on stand-by if needed to help get the boat and its occupant to safety in an emergency. “Those in the boats will be required to wear life jackets, too,” he said. The winning team will be an honored guest at the Silverdale Chamber’s next gala dinner and auction, and will receive gift cards. The race on Sunday is expected to begin at 3:30 p.m. “We plan for two teams to race at a time,” he said. “And all boats will be timed. We’ll just keep that up until we have a winner.” The “Chamber Games” are new to the Water Trails Festival this year and Wright said they hope to expand and have other games (tug-o-war, onehanded volleyball) in the future. “We’re also looking to have all the chambers in the county participate in the boat race next year,” he said. “We’d

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JUNE 23, 2017

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Kitsap proud to be a part of the national program By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

The Kitsap Peninsula Water Trail is part of the National Water Trails system and is an interagency collaborative effort administered by the National Park Service through the rivers, trails and conservation assistance program and the National Trails System. The Kitsap Peninsula portion is managed by Kitsap County in partnership with North Kitsap Trails Association and the Kitsap Water Trails Alliance.

Trail over view:

The Kitsap Peninsula includes 371 miles of coastline on the Puget Sound in Washington State and some of the most spectacular marine environments on the planet. The Kitsap Peninsula is a destination for paddlers from around the globe because of its unique marine environments, the natural scenic beauty of the mountains and sound, migrating marine mammal populations, and ports and towns steeped in tradition. Trail length: 371 miles Trail location: Puget Sound, Washington state Open dates: Year round Hours of operation: Open 24 hours Trail mission statement: The mission of the Kitsap Peninsula Water Trails is to provide a network of launch and landing sites that allows people in human-powered boats, and beach-able sail craft to enjoy the historic, scenic, and environmental richness of

the Puget Sound’s Kitsap Peninsula through single and multi-day trips. These sites are maintained through partnerships with agencies that own the trail sites; additional trail maintenance is provided by paddling clubs, community organizations, and Washington Water Trails Association.

Uses and activities:

Boating, motorized and non-motorized, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, sailing, sampling, fishing, swimming, wildlife observation, heritage and history.

About the trail:

The trail is divided into 12 segments, each which is no more than 15 miles long. Participants can enter the trail at any location including Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Bremerton and Kingston. Most paddlers can paddle about as fast as they can walk so 12 miles would be about four hours of paddling which is about a days’ worth. Paddlers can combine segments in any way possible making it into a multi-day paddle up to about a month. The trail traverses many diverse communities and salmon rich ecosystems. The trail is used by schools, tribes, recreational departments of cities and others for marine wildlife education.

Colorful kayaks line the beach ready for time in the water. Kayaks can be rented at many places in Kitsap County. Contributed photo

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

JUNE 23, 2017

Polynesian outriggers club to host races at festival By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

They’re on the water at least three times a week from March to October. Some are natives of Hawaii. Some are folks who have traveled to Hawaii and love the culture. Others just like to paddle. They are the Hui Heihei Wa’aa Polynesian outrigger club of Kitsap County, and they are more than 100 members strong. The club will be at the Water Trails Festival on June 24, at the Silverdale Waterfront Park. They will be hosting their annual regatta and anticipate six other clubs will be there to compete. “Water Trails falls right during our regatta season and it just so happens that the regatta we host is on that Saturday,” said Pat Brown, club president. “There’ll be a lot of canoes on the water that day.” Brown said races will run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and there will be an announcer calling the races. In between races, there will be Hawaiian music. “Canoes will be all over the lawn and there will be a tent for the race officials,” she said. “And just to the right of the flagpoles, will be the announcer’s stage.” Races include 500-meter, 1,000-meter and 1,500-meter lengths. And as Brown pointed out, this regatta is one of a handful where participants are trying to qualify for the World Sprints. “People will be vying for a spot on Team USA,” she said, describing the World Sprits as the Olympics of outrigging. According to paddling experts, the outrigger canoe is a type of canoe featuring one or more lateral support floats known as outriggers, which are fastened to one or both sides of the main hull. Smaller canoes often employ a single outrigger on the port side, while larger canoes may employ a single-outrigger, double-outrigger, or double-hull configuration. The sailing canoes are an important part of the Polynesian heritage and are raced and sailed in Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa and by the Maori of New Zealand. Unlike a single-hulled canoe, an outrigger or double-hull canoe generates stability as a result of the distance between its hulls rather than due to the shape of each individual hull. As such, the hulls of outrigger or double-hull canoes are typically longer, narrower and more hydro-dynamically efficient than those of single-hull canoes. Compared to other types of canoes, outrigger canoes can be quite fast, yet are also capable of being paddled and sailed in rougher water. This paddling technique, however, differs greatly from kayaking or rowing. The paddle, or blade, used by the paddler is single sided, with either a straight or a double-bend shaft. Despite the single paddle, an experienced paddler will only paddle on one side, using a technique such as a J-stroke to maintain heading and stability. The outrigger float is called the ama in many Polynesian and Micronesian languages. The spars connecting the ama to the main hull are called ʻiako in Hawaiian and kiato in Māori or in Micronesian languages, the term aka is used. The club was founded in 1997 by coach

Members of the local outriggers club compete on the water during a regatta. They’ll be on the water Saturday during the festival. Contributed photo

Members of the Hui Heihei Wa’aa Polynesian outrigger club of Kitsap County practice three times a week on Dyes Inlet.

Rod Rodenhurst, who moved to Kitsap County from Hawaii. The best way to find out about the sport is to come out to a practice session, Brown said. “Come down and get in a canoe with us,” she said. “We’ll show you the basics and then take you out on the water.” The club offers a couple of times out before you have to decide if you want to join them. Members paddle on Mondays, Wednesday and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. at Silverdale on Dyes Inlet, and again at 9 a.m. on Saturday mornings. There is a club for youth who want to learn the techniques which meets on Saturdays after the adults practice. While traditional outrigger paddlers sometimes wear ceremonial dress, club members wear shorts and tank tops with the team logo. In colder months, they wear heavier clothing. There are some in their group who paddle year-round. When the season begins, the club has an “Blessing of the Canoes,” usually performed in native Hawaiian language. To contact the club, checkout their

Contributed photo

website at www.www. hhwsilverdale.org or write to Hui Heihei Wa’a, PO Box 2852, Silverdale, WA 98383, or email the club at at info@hhwsilverdale. org. Call Pat Brown at 360698-1509 for registration questions or to schedule a practice time. How to row: The sport is based in synchronized paddling, with all paddles entering and exiting the water at the same time and all paddlers using the same technique -provides the maximum pull and lift for the minimum effort. This can only be achieved through developing a consistent paddling technique both individually and as team, it requires practice. Rotating from the hips allows paddlers to apply leverage and deliver maxi-

mum pull through the water. Twisting the upper body instead of using the arms utilizes stronger muscle groups and minimizes fatigue. This reach and twist motion requires flexibility. Locking the lower body and arms also results in less rocking of the canoe creating a consistent streamlined hull. Paddlers should maintain a straight line up the spine, twisting around this plane, with heads up and all in a row. The optimum degree of lean (forward) is influenced by the paddler. Smaller paddlers may use a dynamic approach where they lean forward a little (10-30 degrees) at the start of the stroke to increase reach and then straighten during the stroke to provide power. Outrigging Terms wa’a— canoe ama— outrigger float iako — outrigger spars hoe — a paddle or to paddle huli — capsize the canoe paddles set/reach out/ready - a call to lift paddles to the set position, ready to start paddling. Ho’omakaukau — paddles set. hit/go/paddle/ho — start paddling hut - a call to change paddling sides. After a hut one more complete stroke is performed and all paddlers change their paddling side. paddles up/let her run — a call to stop paddling. Paddles up may also be used by some steerers as a paddles set call. timing — a call for all paddlers to focus on the timing of their stroke to ensure it follows the seat in front. J/Draw — a draw stroke by seat 1 or 2 to pull the canoe left or right. uni — a turning call to seat one to poke their paddle on the right to turn the canoe left. kahe — a turning call for a J/Draw stroke. clear — a call usually by seat 1 to the steerer indicating the front of the canoe is clear and it is safe to go left/right. block— a call usually by seat 1 to the steerer indicating the front of the canoe is not clear. back paddle — a call to paddle backward to reverse the canoe.

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

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Network of trails make the National Water Trails System By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

Over the years, a variety of local, state, and federal organizations have identified and developed numerous water trails on rivers, lakes, and other waterways throughout the United States. The National Water Trails System (NWTS) serves to bring existing and newly identified water trails together into one cohesive national network of exemplary water trails. The National Water Trails System is a network of water trails the public can explore and enjoy, as well as a community of water resource managers that can benefit from information sharing and collaboration. The National Water Trails System is a distinctive national network of exemplary water trails that are cooperatively supported and sustained. More specifically, the National Water Trails System has been established to protect and restore America’s rivers, shorelines, and waterways and conserve natural areas along waterways, also to increase access to outdoor recreation on shorelines and waterways. The National Water Trails System will uniquely connect Americans to the nation’s waterways and strengthen the conservation and restoration of these waterways through the mutual support and cooperation of federal, state, local, and nonprofit entities by establishing a national system of exemplary water trails, becoming a catalyst for protecting and restoring the health of local waterways

and surrounding lands, and building a community that mentors and promotes the development of water trails and shares best management practices. Water trails are recreational routes on waterways with a network of public access points supported by broad-based community partnerships. Water trails provide both conservation and recreational opportunities. • Designation Authority While national scenic trails and national historic trails may only be designated by an act of Congress, national recreation trails (including national water trails) may be designated by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture (for trails on or in cooperation with National Forest Service lands). The designations recognize exemplary trails of local and regional significance. Through designation, these trails are recognized as part of the National Trails System. • Management of Individual National Water Trails Each designated national water trail is managed by a local management entity (e.g., local, state, or federal government agency; nonprofit organization; interagen-

cy organization). The ongoing management responsibility and associated costs of the designated national water trail are the sole responsibility of the management entity.

• Coordination and Support for the Overall National Water Trails System The National Water Trails System is a grassroots effort that relies on local management of the designated water trails. The National Park Service (NPS) Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program (RTCA) is the primary administrator that works in partnership with a collaborative interagency group. RTCA staff serves as a clearinghouse for information sharing and national

water trail networking efforts. Agencies may nominate individual water trail designations, work in collaboration with community organizations seeking designation, help strengthen the network of water trail managers, and build the community of practice for water trails. RTCA coordinates the following functions undertaken by the interagency collaborative group: • reviews national water trail applications for designation • disseminates applicable information to management entities throughout the country (e.g., best management practices, water trail management strategies) • develops and maintains the National Water Trails System website, which provides extensive information on the system and best management practices for water trails. In 2015 the entire Kitsap Peninsula shoreline was designated a National Water Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The Kitsap Peninsula Water Trail is the first to officially be designated in Washington state and also the only saltwater trail in the entire U.S. The Kitsap Peninsula Water Trail stretches from Foulweather Bluff in the north, to Bainbridge Island in the east, the Hood Canal in Mason County in the west and Pierce County – Gig Harbor, the Key Peninsula and Narrows Bridge – in the south. The Kitsap Peninsula Water Trail is celebrated annually with the Water Trails Festival every June.

photo by Irving Mortensen

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

JUNE 23, 2017

Loop Around Dyes Inlet added to this year’s festival By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

Paul Dutky and Dianne Iverson are all about sharing Kitsap County with bicycle enthusiasts. And while they know there’s some work to do before a permanent “loop around Dyes Inlet” will be ready, they figure, what better time to introduce it to the public than at this year’s Water Trails Festival June 24-25. “There’s been plans with the county to have this loop for some time,” said Dutky. “But as it is right now, there are places in the loop that aren’t safe. We want to take these plans and make it happen, at least for one day.” That’s why, with the county’s help,

“There are just some beautiful views along this section,” Dutky said. “And with a lane closed, it’s a family-friendly safe ride for bikes, baby strollers and inline skaters. It’s a wonderful celebration of a space not normally available.” The second section of the loop begins at Lions Park and travels mostly on existing bike lanes to Harborside Fountain Park in Bremerton. It’s six miles round trip. Also in the loop is the section from the Silverdale Waterfront to NAD Marine Park. This section is 13 miles out and back and travels near the restored Chico Creek Estuary. This section includes the Navy housing area at Jackson Park, and residents there are

Paul Dutky and Dianne Iverson of the West Sound Cycling Club are promoting bicycling in Kitsap County with the Dyes Inlet Loop on Sunday. Contributed photo

The Dyes Inlet Loop cycling event has several options for riders of various skills. There’s even a family ride that starts and ends at Lions Park. Contributed photo

and help from the cities involved, the loop will be made safe so bikes can travel on it during the Water Trails Festival. The Dyes Inlet Loop Bicycle Rides will be self-directed rides that anyone can do at any time on June 25, during the Water Trails Festival. The loop has been broken down into four sections, each can be a ride, or bicyclers can ride the entire route. The first section is two miles out and back and is a flat stretch of Tracyton Boulevard starting at Lions Park. Ordinarily there would be too much traffic to allow for this route. But through the county’s help the traffic lane next to the water will be closed to motor vehicles between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

being encouraged to join in the fun on that part of the loop. The entire loop connects these section and is a 22 mile ride. It starts in Silverdale and travels all the above mentions sections, and adds a beginning section on the east side of Dyes Inlet which then goes south through Traction Boulevard, downtown Bremerton, to the Navy yard (where a gate usually closed will be open to riders), along Charleston Beach Boulevard, north through Chico and back to the Silverdale Waterfront. For the purposes of the June 25 ride, there will be volunteers directing those on bikes and there will be stops along the way to view sites in nature, or stops at local parks and museums. While on an ordinary day, traffic might keep

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someone on a bicycle from traveling this route, the “sample” day is an opportunity to see what could be, said Dutky. “Once you see the pieces, you can envision what it could be like,” said Iverson. “We’re hoping by doing this, there will be some new interest in making this loop a permanent ride.” Of course, that would mean an investment in bike trails, they know. But as bicyclers they’d like to see Kitsap County add something like this loop to attract folks from the other side of the water over to Kitsap to bike. “In Seattle, they have many marked trails,” she said. “They even have bicycle Sundays where groups can get together and ride. We’d like to have that here, so local riders don’t have to go elsewhere to ride.” Although this is a new concept for Kitsap, Dutky said, it’s something that’s doable. “As a bike club, West Sound Cycling has taken measurements and drafted a plan for how this could be a permanent loop,” Dutky said. “And we’ve come up with a way to do it by just re-painting lanes and adding safety measures. It would be very inexpensive, compared to creating all new bike lanes.” But before going any further, the club wants to hear from bicyclers in the community. Hence, the one day ride during Water Tails Festival. “We want to know the level of interest,” Iverson said. “We’re really trying to expose the idea to people who ride in our community.”

-- -   -- 

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                                                       

The entire route is posted at www. WestSoundCycling.com. You can register on the website for the Loop Around Dyes Inlet ride. There will be registration on the day of the event, too, at the Silverdale Waterfront Park and Lions Park. There is no cost to participate. What happens following the ride, Dutky said is anyone’s guess. “It’s our hope that we can make this loop available year-round at some point,” he said. “We live in a beautiful community and people need to experience it.” To learn more, go to www. WestSoundCycling.com.

Loop maps are available online or at the event. Contributed photo

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KITSAP PENINSULA WATER TRAILS FESTIVAL

JUNE 23, 2017

11

Runners welcome at the firstever Water Trails Festival race By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

If you don’t paddle, come out and be a part of the fun of the Water Trails Festival anyway. The Silverdale Riot Without a Paddle 5K Run is set to begin at 9 a.m., June 25. Cost to participate is $22 for the 5K, and $14 for the 1K. The kids’ run is free. The race will feature gorgeous water and mountain views. It includes a beginner-friendly paved race along the Clear Creek Trail, and has a free Kids Dash and a 1K option as well. Meet at the Silverdale Waterfront Park, 3337 NW Byron St., Silverdale. Same day registration begins at 6:30 a.m., along with packet pick-up. The race will begin promptly at 9 a.m. Awards for various age groups will be given from the podium following the races. According to Randy Rogers, the Silverdale RIOT Running Club (Running Is Our Therapy) was created by runners for runners. RIOT is proud to be a member of the Road Runners Club of America and through our association with the RRCA. Silverdale RIOT is a nonprofit. “Silverdale RIOT formed as an informal group in early 2015 and grew rapidly,” said Rogers. “We incorporated as a 501c3 nonprofit club in September

2015. When we were approached by Kathleen from the Silverdale Chamber of Commerce to put this race on we saw it as a great opportunity for us to support a fun local event.” RIOT’s membership includes friends from across the USA and beyond. The group’s mission is a simple one: “We strive to further the sport of running and individual athletes through an inspirational, supportive running team.” Team RIOT embraces athletes from all backgrounds and believes that together, ordinary people are capable of extraordinary things. For more, go to the website, www.silverdaleriot.org, or check out their Facebook page. Rogers said the course for this race is one that almost any runner can manage. “The course will be mostly on the clear creek trail, with some on the streets near Waterfront Park,” he said. “The start and finish will be at Waterfront Park, and the course will take runners all the way to Ridgetop Boulevard along the Clear Creek Trail.”

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Much work went in to putting together the Water Trails Festival The Silverdale Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank the following organizers for all the work they did in helping to put together this festival: Brent Roth Carla Larson Guitar Cafe Haselwood YMCA Hui Heihei Wa’a (Silverdale Outrigger Canoe Club) Jason Wright Kitsap County Kitsap Regional Library

Margaret Loveless Olympic Outdoor Center Port Gamble Port of Brownsville Port of Keyport Port of Poulsbo Port of Silverdale Rick Soper Roy Sahali

Sally Hass Silverdale Chamber of Commerce Silverdale RIOT Road Runners Club Steven Boe Suquamish Tribe Tom Taylor Visit Kitsap West Sound Cycle Club

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JUNE 23, 2017

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