The Hiwassee River Blueway hosted its annual Partner Paddle and Celebration Lunch on Sunday, July 17 in an effort to get more people out paddling the scenic Hiwassee River and involved in the Blueway’s efforts. The well attended event kicked off with a celebration lunch at a new lodging option in McMinn County – Hiwassee Acres. Situated on the shore of the lower Hiwassee River and the former site of boys school, Hiwassee Acres offers luxury accommodations on a quiet nature preserve. TVA sponsored the celebration lunch where over 60 attendees gathered to listen to live music, enjoy a catered lunch and learn more about the Hiwassee River Blueway and Tennessee RiverLine organizations.
“The Hiwassee River Blueway is a local organization made up of volunteers whose mission is to increase preservation, conservation, tourism, and economic development of the four counties that touch the river; Bradley, McMinn, Meigs, and Polk,” said Dr. Nancy Watts, chairperson of the Hiwassee Blueway Committee. “We are not a paddle organization, but host many events on the river to increase awareness, foster stewardship and involvement in our organization as we seek to become an independent 501(C)3, similar to several other river conservancy programs across the state. We invite local businesses, organizations, paddlers and anyone interested in learning more about what we do to get involved with us by following us on Facebook and attending our monthly meetings.”
After the celebration lunch, 57 paddlers made their way to the Hiwassee Ocoee Scenic State Park (Gee Creek Campground) boat ramp to embark on a 6.5 mile down river paddle on the scenic Hiwassee River. Many of the paddlers came with their own equipment, while partnerships with TN RiverLine and Outshine Adventures offered equipment for folks to participate in the paddle that didn't have their own.
"Hiwassee River Blueway is incredibly grateful for the support they have received from their community partners including a generous sponsorship from TVA along with partnerships with Tennessee RiverLine, Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic State Park, TWRA, Outshine Adventures, Hiwassee Acres and Starr Mountain Outfitters," officials said.
The Hiwassee Blueway will host an annual partner paddle again next year. In the meantime, if you’re interested in learning more about the Blueway, attending meetings or getting involved in other ways, you can contact them directly at https://www.hiwasseeblueway.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/HiwasseeBlueway.