Due to a rise in water levels, the Mayor's Paddle on the Withlacoochee River has been rescheduled for March 27th at 8 AM. With the Withlacoochee River still hovering around flood stage WWALS Watershed Coalition, in consultation with Lowndes County Emergency Management Director Ashley Tye, has decided to postpone the Mayor's Paddle' as a safety precaution. "The Withlacoochee River is spread out in the flood plain, increasing people's possibility of getting tipped over by overhanging branches. So a month later makes a lot more sense for attracting novice paddlers," said Suwannee Riverkeeper John S. Quarterman.

At all WWALS outings during this pandemic, attendees will have their temperatures taken with an infrared thermometer upon arrival. Both WWALS and Mayor Matheson ask that if you're ill in any way, please stay home. All other details for this event will remain the same.

When: Gather 8 AM, launch 10 AM, end 4 PM, Saturday, February 27th, 2021

Put-In: Troupville Boat Ramp, 19664 Valdosta Hwy, Valdosta, GA 31602: on GA 133 off I-75 exit 18, in Lowndes County.

GPS: 30.851842, -83.346536

Directions: Head west from Valdosta on GA 133 (St. Augustine Road), cross I-75 and the Withlacoochee River, and at the light for Val Tech Road, turn left into the park around Troupville Boat Ramp.

Take Out: Spook Bridge, west from Valdosta on US 84, left onto Ousley Road, right onto Old Quitman Highway, stop at the gate.

Bring: the usual personal flotation device, boat, paddles, food, drinking water, warm clothes, and first aid kit. Also, trash pickers and trash bags: every WWALS outing is also a cleanup.

Come as early as 8 AM to Troupville Boat Ramp, drop off your boats, and drive to Spook Bridge. Two 15-seat vans provided by the Boys & Girls Club will shuttle you back to Troupville. "We're happy to do this," said Bill Holt, VP of Operations, Boys & Girls Club of Valdosta. "Just remember to wear your mask and sit with social distancing."

All elected officials present will have three minutes to speak. And you can paddle up to them and ask questions.

This outing is free to WWALS members and $10 (ten dollars) for non-members. You can pay the $10 at the outing or online: https://wwals.net/donations/#outings.