Hi everybody, I'm new here, although I've lived in Yolo County for eight years and have spent a lot of those years down by the creek. It looks like there's still a wee bit of activity on here, but if not then oopsie daisy.
I've been toying with the idea of building a raft and floating/paddling this summer from the head of Lake Solano down as far as I can, past Mace Blvd in Davis. I've been eyeing this grove of bamboo by the "rapids" (just a 20 ft long riffle but it's the best we're going to get around here) on the Riparian Reserve about half a mile upstream of I-80 for materials to build the raft. Does anybody have any other ideas for (preferably free) methods or materials to build the raft? I'm guessing that there's going to be a lot of portaging, so I want it to be under 60 or so pounds. If the flows on the creek are too low by the time I build the raft, I might try it on Willow Canal instead, where the flows generally are inversely proportional to the creek. Not nearly as nice, but it'll still be fun. Thanks all!
Consider an inexpensive inflatable kayak (Amazon, Walmart, etc.). These are very light weight and most have multiple compartments in case you get a puncture. Look at the ratings and reviews on Amazon. Wear a life jacket and practice with your kayak first including what to do if you overturn. If there are a lot of logs, branches, or other structure over the stream and swift current you might need head gear. Google maps satellite view can give some information about the stream. Put your cell phone in double zip-lock bags or other water proof container and secure it so that you don't loose it in the water. I am not sure if there are any private property issues, the web master of this site (Bono) might know.
-- Edited by Gnat on Monday 25th of April 2022 11:19:23 AM
