Press Blog
Zoar Outdoor Offers Fly Fishing On The Deerfield River
March 5, 2007 (0 comments)
The upper Deerfield River fishery includes a diverse and productive angling habitat. The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife stocks the river spring through fall with rainbow, brown, brook and tiger trout. There is also native wild brook and stream-bred brown trout. Average stock trout sizes range from 8 to 14 inches.
Through the efforts of local conservation groups, the lower reaches of the river provide a good warmwater habitat for smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, rock bass and lunker fallfish. Enormous brown trout lurk in several deep, well-oxygenated pools with the largest to date measuring 25 inches.
Fishing on the Deerfield River is a unique and gratifying way to experience the river valley. Fishing programs can be combined with Zoar Outdoor’s other activities of biking, climbing and kayaking to create multi-sport adventure packages. For more information, contact Zoar Outdoor at 800-532-7483.
2007 USA Wildwater National Championships
January 15, 2007 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA -- Zoar
Outdoor, has been awarded the bid for USA Wildwater Nationals on the
Deerfield River in Western Massachusetts for August 24-26, 2007. Zoar
Outdoor, a local outfitter operating guided raft trips and paddling
instruction (www.zoaroutdoor.com) on the river since 1989 will host the
race. During the 1990s, Zoar hosted a number of national competitions
on the Deerfield River including Slalom Nationals, Junior Team Trials,
Open-Boat Nationals, and Wildwater Nationals in 1993 and 1995.
The Deerfield River is a dam-controlled river running 70 miles from
Vermont to Massachusetts with class 2-4 whitewater. The Zoar Gap
section (www.zoaroutdoor.com/deerfield_ataglance.htm)
is
a 5-mile class 2 run with an average gradient of 25 feet per mile with
one class 3 rapid at the end. The average release from the dam is
700-900 cfs. The Zoar Gap section provides an easy "classic" wildwater
run good for beginning races. The class 3 rapid at the end of this run
has been the site of past slalom team trials and national championship
races.
The Dryway section www.zoaroutdoor.com/dryway_ataglance.htm is a 4-mile section of continuous class 3-4 rapids with a gradient of 60-80 feet per mile. Releases provided by TransCanada (www.transcanada.com/power/usne.html)
from a hydro generating facility, puts 900-1100 cfs through this
section. There are several great "sprint" race locations along this
section. The Dryway has been the past site of two wildwater national
championships.
There will be a water release on the Dryway section on Friday for training with Saturday and Sunday being the race days. Zoar Outdoors will recognize Juniors, Masters and Grand Masters classes. The race dates would be guaranteed flows for 4-5 hours per day. There are no special access fees required by the power company that provide the releases. Shuttles for race and practice runs will be provided by Zoar Outdoor. The average weather in late August is hot with 80 degrees air temperature and 60 degrees water temperature.
Media contact: Karen Blom
Email: karen@zoaroutdoor.com
800-532-7483
Zoar Outdoor Offers Wilderness First Responder Course
December 7, 2006 (0 comments)
Zoar Outdoor is sponsoring a hands-on Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course in Charlemont, MA on Jan 9 - Jan 17, 2007 and a WFR recertification course Jan 6 – 8, 2007. This intensive backcountry medical training course will show students how to deal with medical emergencies when they are miles from help and dialing 911 is not an option.
Wilderness Medicine differs from traditional first aid in three respects. First, transport times are measured in hours and days rather than minutes, so many phases of patient care that usually occur in a hospital must be carried out in the field. Second, severe environments dramatically increase the complexity of any emergency and heighten risks to patients and rescuers alike. Third, limited equipment makes improvisation and resourcefulness essential.
These issues and more will be addressed by professional instructors from Wilderness Medical Associates, leaders in the field of wilderness medical training. Classes are fast-paced with an emphasis on practical skills. Mornings are devoted to lectures, while afternoons and evenings are spent outside working on everything from stretcher construction to full-scale rescue simulations. A number of realistic simulations, complete with fake wounds and stage blood, will be conducted. Past students commonly report of real-life rescues that, "felt just like a simulation."
This course is recommended for all outdoor professionals and enthusiasts who spend time in remote areas. Graduates will be certified by Wilderness Medical Associates. Call 800-532-7483 and ask for Janet Burnett or Nicole Yezierski at Zoar Outdoor for logistical and pricing information or Wilderness Medical Associates at (888)WILD-MED for curriculum information.
Media contact: Karen Blom
Email: karen@zoaroutdoor.com
800-532-7483
Zoar Outdoor Goes Solar
October 31, 2006 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA - In keeping with the theme of Powering Your Own Adventure, Zoar Outdoor is installing a solar energy system through collaboration with the Small Renewables Initiative of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. The system utilizes roof-mounted photovoltaic panels on three adjacent buildings at Hawk Mountain Lodge and the Zoar Outdoor base. The south-facing roofs of these buildings make the site ideal for capturing the sun’s energy and transforming it into electrical power. Each roof-mounted system will provide an average output of 4.5 kW. The system will meet the annual electrical demand for Hawk Mountain Lodge and about 30% of the energy needs of the Zoar Outdoor base. The system will be operational by the end of this year.
Photovoltaic technology uses semiconductors energized by sunlight to create electricity. The semiconductors are comprised of cells arranged on a panel mounted in a location ideal for capturing solar output. The Renewable Energy Trust was created by the state in 1998 as part of the electric utility industry restructuring to promote the development of renewable energy in the Commonwealth. The Trust is administered by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. The goal is to generate the maximum economic and environmental benefits from clean energy resources. Massachusetts Technology Collaborative works with homeowners, businesses, and public entities across the state designing, funding and implementing a variety of renewable energy technologies in order to promote sustainable production of clean energy.
According to Zoar Outdoor President, Bruce Lessels, "We are pleased to participate in the Small Renewables Initiative because it is in keeping with our core environmental values. Solar energy makes sense as a way to minimize our environmental impact while embracing the latest technology."
Ironically, the Deerfield River, the location of many of Zoar Outdoor’s river trips, is a source of renewable energy itself. During hydroelectric generation, the water released from dams on the river serves a dual purpose by also providing flows for recreational boating such as kayaking, rafting and canoeing. Hydroelectricity is the largest source of clean energy in the United States and around the world and a significant source of renewable energy for Massachusetts.
Media contact: Karen Blom
Email: karen@zoaroutdoor.com
800-532-7483
15th Annual Zoar Outdoor Film Series
May 19, 2006 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA -- Zoar Outdoor is pleased to announce its 15th annual summer film series hosted at the Zoar Pavilion on Saturday evenings throughout the summer. These programs are free and open to the public. The series features prominent outdoor enthusiasts who have documented on film their adventures as a way to share their passions with the local community.
The first presentation will be on Saturday, June 24th part of Zoar’s DemoFest weekend. Andrew Holcomb, Team D pro-paddler for Dagger Kayaks, will host TEVA’s new 2006 DVDs “Wet-House” and “Dynasty”. “Dynasty” with the Young Gun Crew features runs from around the world including the White Nile’s legendary Hypoxia rapid, first descents on the thundering rivers of Madagascar and the first ever Hail Mary off New Zealand’s Maruia Falls. “Wet-House” is the story of six fiercely independent boaters from the four corners of the planet; united by their shared thirst for big water and high adventure - world-class expedition boater Steve Fisher, Jimmy Blakeney, Kiwi-native Nikki Kelly, Andrew Holcombe, Tanya Shuman, Bryan Kirk and more.
On Saturday, August 12th Henry Dandeneau, local resident and long-time manger of the hydro-electric dams on the Deerfield River will give a power point presentation on “How the River Works” from a energy management perspective and how it affects recreational use on the river.
On August 19th, Harvey Halpern, will give his slideshow “Endangered Canyons of Utah”, which details the spectacular landscapes at risk in Utah. The show includes all five National Parks in Utah, but concentrates on those lands outside the parks that are administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The show is the culmination of 30 years of exploring the remote corners of Canyon Country.
The next presentation will be on September 16th “Chilean Whitewater and Culture” with Chris Spelius, founder of Expediciones Chile and former US Olympic team kayaker will share his multi-media presentation on paddling opportunities in southern Chile along the Futaleufa River. Chris has been coming to the Deerfield River for many years to teach Zoar’s big water paddling clinic.
The final presentation of the season will be on September 30th showing the DVD “In the Flux” by professional kayaker and videographer, David Arnaud. The movie retraces two years of kayaking around the world including footage from the Italian Alps, Siberia, Morocco, Hawaii and Canada.
Come join us for some exciting adventures! These programs are free and open to the public. A simple summer barbecue starts at 5:00 pm for $7.50/person and shows begin at 6:00 pm at the Zoar Outdoor Pavilion.
Zoar Outdoor Hires New Managers
February 22, 2006 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA -- Zoar Outdoor has recently hired two new managers to join their staff. Nicole Yezierski is the new Office Manager in charge of customer service, reservations and group sales. Nicole brings management experience from her many years working in the production department at Yankee Candle. Nicole is excited to learn all about the adventures that Zoar Outdoor offers and can't wait to get on the river in the next month.
Michael Porter replaces Larry Bernier, long-time Assistant Rafting Manager. Mike has worked as a kayak instructor, rock climbing teacher and raft guide for the past five years at Zoar Outdoor. This year he takes on the new responsibilities of staff hiring, training and scheduling and continues to assist in managing raft trips on 5 different rivers in New England. Mike will be training new guides starting weekends in March.
For more information on Zoar Outdoor's paddling instruction, raft trips, rentals and lodging visit www.zoaroutdoor.com.
Zoar Outdoor Ski And Stay Packages
December 15, 2005 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA -–Zoar Outdoor’s Hawk Mountain Lodge (www.hawkmountainlodge.com) is offering “Ski and Stay” packages this winter complete with skiing at nearby Berkshire East Ski Resort. Check into one of Zoar’s relaxing rooms Friday or Saturday evening (prices range from $55 – 125 per room per night - 20% off summer rates) and receive our special ski and dinner discounts. The Hawk Mountain Lodge is the closest lodging facility to Berkshire East. Ski and Stay packages are valid until mid-March or until Berkshire East closes for the season.
Try downhill skiing at Berkshire East Ski Resort (www.berkshireeast.com) with our “Ski and Stay” $5 discount off a daily lift pass for all ages, valid for the day before or after an overnight at Hawk Mountain Lodge. Stay two nights and get a discount off two days of skiing! Berkshire East is southern New England’s largest ski area with 100% snowmaking on 45 trails serviced by 5 lifts. Ski on uncrowded wooded trails with minimal or no lift-line waits. Berkshire East is an exceptional value for the varied terrain that appeals to beginner and advanced skiers alike.
After a day on the slopes, enjoy a meal at 10% off at Stillwaters Restaurant www.stillwaters-restaurant.com or the Warfield House, both located in Charlemont. Come enjoy a relaxing, but energizing stay at Hawk Mountain Lodge with a sweeping view of the mountain outside every window!
For more information or to make a reservation, call 800-532-7483.
Zoar Outdoor Hosts Demofest 2005
May 17, 2005 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA – Zoar Outdoor will be hosting the 2nd Annual DemoFest on June 24th, 25th and 26th on the Deerfield River. DemoFest is a free event open to the public where manufacturers display the latest whitewater kayaks, canoes, paddles and life vests for paddlers to try out. This is an opportunity to test boats, use paddles, learn about the newest gear from the manufacturer’s reps, and get some instruction from some of the most accomplished paddlers in the country. Manufacturer representatives, national team paddlers and Zoar Outdoor instruction staff will give free mini technique clinics on the Deerfield River through out the day.
On Saturday evening, June 25th as part of Zoar’s DemoFest weekend, Shane Benedict, boat designer for Liquidlogic, freestyle national team member and international paddler will host the 2004 TEVA “ The 7 Rivers Expedition”. Damon Bungar, New England Confluence Rep. will present LVM #15 and the Wave Sport/Local promo tape. There will be a barbeque at 5 pm prior to the 6 pm paddling presentation.
DemoFest 2005 will be a stop for the national tours of, Pyranha’s “Play the River” and Dagger’s “Paddle with the Pros”with Andrew Holcombe representing Dagger Kayak. Wave Sport team paddlers Damon Bungar, Karyn Roy and Jimmy Blakeney will be attending. Current free style World Champion, EJ representing Jackson Kayak, David Nickerson and Team Esquif representing Esquif Canoes and Fergus Coffey Zoar Outdoor’s Assistant Instruction Manager will lead mini-clinics on the Deerfield River.
To support the great work that American Whitewater does in promoting river conservation, access and safety, we are strongly encouraging that participants be members of American Whitewater. American Whitewater will have a representative on site.
Please check our website at www.zoaroutdoor.com/kayakshop.htm for up-to-date information and schedules.
14th Annual Zoar Outdoor Film Series
May 5, 2005 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA - Zoar Outdoor is pleased to announce its 14th annual summer film series hosted at the Zoar Pavilion on Saturday evenings throughout the summer. These programs are free and open to the public. The series features prominent outdoor enthusiasts who have documented on film their adventures as a way to share their passions with the local community.
The first presentation will be on Saturday, June 25th as part of Zoar's DemoFest weekend. Shane Benedict, boat designer for Liquidlogic , freestyle national team member and international expedition paddler will host the 2004 TEVA "Seven Rivers Expedition". Damon Bunger, New England Confluence Rep. will present LVM #15 and the Wave Sport/Local promo tape.
The second presentation is scheduled for Friday, July 29th entitled "Where Does Your Water Come From?- A Look At American Whitewater's Past, Present, and Future Work in the Northeast". American Whitewater Board member Tom Christopher and Dan Mullins, who is working on a whitewater park in Connecticut, along with Kevin Colburn, AW's National Stewardship Director, will be on hand for this unusual presentation and discussion.
The next presentation on Saturday, August 6th will be with Zoar's retail manager, Greg Poehlein. Greg will share his winter adventures kayaking with Slickrock Adventures on a privately-owned island off the coast of Belize in Central America. Perched on the brink of the continental shelf, the island base of Long Caye lies on the slender coral ring of Glover's Reef, an atoll 35 miles offshore from Dangriga, in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.
On Saturday, August 20th Anna Levesque, five-time Canadian Freestyle Team member, World Freestyle medalist, and a member of Team Dagger will show her latest video - Whitewater Kayaking Basics for Women. This video offers whitewater kayaking instruction for beginners specifically tailored to women.
The last presentation will be on September 17th - "Chilean Whitewater and Culture" with Chris Spelius, founder of Expediciones Chile and former US Olympic team kayaker will share his multi-media presentation on paddling opportunities in southern Chile along the Futaleufa River. Chris has been coming to the Deerfield River for many years to teach Zoar's big water paddling clinic.
Come join us for some exciting adventures! These programs are free and open to the public. A simple summer barbecue starts at 5:00 pm for $5/person and shows begin at 6:00 pm at the Zoar Outdoor Pavilion.
For more information call 800-532-7483 or by emailing info@zoaroutdoor.com.
Hawk Mountain Lodge Opens In Charlemont, Massachusetts
April 15, 2005 (0 comments)
Charlemont, MA -- Zoar Outdoor is expanding to offer comfortable on-site accommodations starting in June at its new Hawk Mountain Lodge, located next door to their base. Overlooking the Deerfield River and Berkshire East Ski Area, the lodge offers 5 rooms that can sleep up to 13 people. Rooms can be booked separately or the entire lodge can be reserved for one party. The first floor is comprised of a suite (2 bedrooms with a private accessible bathroom) that sleeps up to 5, a common room with TV and another bedroom with a semi-private bath. The second floor has a bathroom shared by three rooms that each sleep 2. The spacious yard has a volleyball court, horseshoe pit and gardens. Zoar has designed lodging packages for its paddling instruction clinics. see www.hawkmountainlodge.com for more information.
In addition to the new lodge, Zoar will be renting bikes starting in May. Fifteen new Cannondale bikes have just arrived and are being assembled in Zoar’s bike barn located next to the lodge. There will be three styles of bikes to rent – comfort bikes with upright seating, shocks and low gears for easy paved rides, mountain bikes with a wide range of gears for gravel roads and trails, and sport road bikes with drop handlebars and narrow tires designed for road touring. Bikes are for use on self-guided rides in the local area with maps provided for a full (10 am – 5 pm) or half-day (1 pm – 5 pm) rental. There is also a one-way shuttle serviced downhill ride from Vermont along the Deerfield River everyday starting at 11 am. Bike rentals run from May to October and are a great way to see the river valley during the fall foliage, or during a hot summer day when you can easily jump into the river to cool off.
