Chairman and Mayor’s Paddle rescheduled to April 19
Published 8:48 am Friday, March 21, 2025
1 of 2
Submitted photo by John S. Quarterman, WWALS: Chairman and Mayors Paddle, Troupville to Spook Bridge, Little River, Withlacoochee River.
Submitted photo by John S. Quarterman, WWALS: Troupville Boat Ramp to Spook Bridge --WLRWT, Maps, in Rescheduled: Chairman and Mayor's Paddle: Troupville to Spook Bridge, Withlacoochee River.
VALDOSTA — Due to continued high water conditions, the City of Valdosta, Lowndes County, and the WWALS Watershed Coalition, also known as Suwannee Riverkeeper, have rescheduled the 6th annual Mayor and Chairman’s Paddle for Saturday.
Join Valdosta Mayor Scott James Matheson and Lowndes County Chairman Bill Slaughter for a scenic and leisurely paddle along the Withlacoochee River. Paddlers can choose between two route options:
— A shorter three-mile trip, ideal for those looking for a relaxed experience.
— A longer 11-mile journey, perfect for more adventurous paddlers.
This free event is made possible by a generous grant from Georgia Power, promoting outdoor recreation and clean waterways.
Meet at the Troupville Boat Ramp, 19664 Valdosta Hwy., as early as 8 a.m., no later than 9 a.m.
The Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks and Recreation Authority will provide shuttle vans, and the Valdosta Boys & Girls Club will bring youth and boats to participate. The city offered special appreciation to Phil Hubbard for leading the expedition and Phil Royce for serving as sweep.
Participants should bring a personal flotation device, boat, paddles, food, drinking water, warm clothing, and a first aid kit. To support the event’s environmental focus, paddlers are encouraged to bring trash pickers and trash bags to help keep the waterways clean.
This annual paddle is a collaborative effort between the City of Valdosta, Lowndes County, and the WWALS Watershed Coalition, also known as Suwannee Riverkeeper. The event highlights the importance of environmental stewardship and maintaining clean, healthy waterways for future generations.
For more information, visit WWALS Watershed Coalition as Suwannee Riverkeeper website.
