Here are upcoming Outdoor Chattanooga news and events:
New Day! New Location!
Rapid Learning Roll Practice Jan. 23
Our Rapid Learning Whitewater Program has moved to Wednesdays, with two sessions: 6-7 and 7-8 p.m. at the Brainerd Recreation Community Center's indoor pool, at 1010 North Moore Rd. The program costs $50 per year for individuals, $75 for families and gives members access to full instruction and all kayaking equipment. Kayakers will all their own gear may participate by paying a single day membership fee of $5. First timers can come for free. To learn more, email or call Terri Chapin at (423) 643-6882.
Free Winter Workshop: Geocaching 101 Jan. 26
Did you know that you can geocache with your Android or iPhone? Outdoor Chattanooga will host a free Geocaching Winter Workshop for people of all ages on Sat., Jan. 26, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at our facility in Coolidge Park, 200 River St. Richard Manning and other local geocachers will teach a short class on the basics and then take everyone out into Coolidge and Renaissance Park to go cache hunting. Participants may download a free geocaching app before coming to the class or learn how from the experts. To learn more, email or call Outdoor Chattanooga at (423) 643-6888.
Sierra Club Presentation on Fracking Jan. 28
Outdoor Chattanooga and the Sierra Club, Cherokee Group will host University of TN, Chattanooga professors Dr. Joe Wilferth and Dr. Henry Spratt at their monthly meeting on Mon., Jan. 28, 7 p.m. at Outdoor Chattanooga, 200 River St. in Coolidge Park. Drs. Wilferth and Spratt will offer the public a basic primer on the practice of hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," as a method of petroleum extraction, and it's potential effects on groundwater sources in Hamilton Co. The public is invited.
Bike2Work Breakfast Feb. 1
We'll host our monthly Bike2Work Breakfast at the Waterhouse Pavilion in downtown Chattanooga's Miller Plaza on Fri., Feb. 1, from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Brave winter cycle commuters and those who are hibernating are invited to partake of fresh Velo Coffee, Whole Foods Breakfast and get a chance for some free maintenance from River City Bicycles. To learn more, email Outdoor Chattanooga or call (423) 643-6888.
Registration is OPEN!
Outdoor Chattanooga's 7th Annual Outdoor Expo & Gear Swap April 20
We will host our annual Outdoor Expo & Gear Swap on Sat., April 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Coolidge Park. This year, the event's theme is: "A Spring Celebration of Chattanooga's Signature Outdoor Lifestyle." Exhibitor registration is open to outdoor businesses, non profits, conservation and local food organizations, alternative transportation manufacturers and organizations, clubs, health and wellness organizations and dog and cat rescue groups. For more information, email Ruth Thompson or call (423) 643-6888.
CA&NC Education Programs Jan. 26-27
The Chattanooga Arboretum and Nature Center will host a series of educational programs for adults and kids the weekend of Jan. 26 and 27. Pre-registration is required for all classes by calling (423) 921-1160, ext. 0.
Saturday, January 26
12 noon - 2 p.m. - Herpetology - this adult class will focus on the native reptiles and amphibians of our area and how they adapt to survive. Taught by CA&NC Education Director Corey Hagen. Cost: $20 ($18 CA&NC Members).
12 noon - 2 p.m. - Introduction to Sandhill Cranes - Dr. David Aborn, UTC Professor and Ornithologist will teach a class based on his recent research about Sandhill Cranes. For adults and kids ages 12 and older. Cost: $12 ($10 CA&NC Members).
Sunday, January 27
Time TBA - Photography 101 - Professional photographer Bob Hulse will use our winter landscape to teach the basics of outdoor photography. Adults and kids ages 16 and older. Cost: $30.
Celebrate Cycling Open House Jan. 31
Suck Creek Cycle invites the public to come to a Celebrate Cycling open house on Thurs., Jan. 31, from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy food, games, great people and a celebration of things past and yet to come for cycling in Chattanooga.
Save Water, Drink Wine for Tenne-SEA Feb. 2
The Tennessee Chapter of the Caribbean Student Environmental Alliance will host a special fundraiser,
Save Water, Drink Wine, at the Barn Nursery on Sat., Feb. 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will feature tapas, wine, music and funds Tenne-SEA's clean water programs.
Volunteer Opportunities
Chattanooga Park Stewards Elmo Park Cleanup Feb. 2
The Chattanooga Park Stewards will team up with the St. Elmo Neighborhood Association to host a volunteer cleanup day at Elmo Park on Sat., Feb. 2, at 10 a.m. Volunteers are needed to mulch, paint and do a few small repairs to this special neighborhood park.
Web Hit(s) of the Week
After last week's relentless rains, Pat Keller did a first descent of the Cumberland Plateau's 100 ft. Ozone Falls. The only casualty was his helmet cam.