News

Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper Katey Zimmerman is in the planning stages of a kayaking trip to remember.

In October, Katey will take on the Tar-Pamlico Water Trail, a 12-day camping and kayaking trip from Oxford to Washington, following in the wake of previous Sound Rivers’ Riverkeepers.

“It’s something of a tradition for Pamlico-Tar Riverkeepers,” Katey said. “And, really, the main purpose — even though I’m two years in, now — is to familiarize myself more with the entire watershed, to see it all at the same time and flag issues out there on the water that wouldn’t otherwise be seen.”

Joining Katey on the trip will be Water-Quality Specialist Taylor Register and Volunteer Coordinator Emily Fritz. Neuse Riverkeeper Samantha Krop will be joining them for a few days of the journey, as well. Planning a trip of this magnitude can be challenging.

“The most challenging part so far is getting a list together of everything I’m going to need for that long and trying to visualize how it’s all going to fit into a kayak,” Katey laughed.

The trio will launch from Wilton Slopes in Oxford on Oct. 13, with arrival at the Washington waterfront slated for Oct. 24 — 170 miles of paddling the Tar and (very briefly at the end) the Pamlico.

“We really want to emphasize the recreational value of the river. We’re going to be staying at our camping platforms, highlighting those and showing people that it’s a fun, cool thing to do and that they can do it, too,” Katey said.

Sound Rivers owns 11 camping platforms on the Tar-Pamlico, which can be rented to the public for $20 per night. Visit the Tar-Pamlico Water Trail reservation system.

Between now and Oct. 13, Katey’s dedicated to planning, and planning for a shorter, practice paddle in early September.

“I’m excited —slightly stressed — but excited,” she laughed.

Would you be interested in sponsoring Katey’s trip? Let Development Director Jay Potter know by emailing jay@soundrivers.org!