I was starting to think about getting my gear ready and clearing the calendar for spring.  On my way home from work on I35, I looked over the side of the bridge overlooking the Mississippi River, and there it was: A red kayak floating in the distance.  I can't believe somebody is out there already.   The sight started thoughts and plans for the 2010 season, which will hopefully be long, and wet!   Do you know where your gear is?  I can't believe we'll be hitting almost 50 by next week!  Time to make plans!

You can start your plans by checking out the streams that unleash paddling fun after the snow melts and the temperatures go up!  The Snake River is great fun in April, as is Rice Creek.  Minnesota Conservation Volunteer just published an nice write-up on Rice Creek.  Check it out, at Minnesota Conservation Volunteer.  By the way, MCV is a great (and free, though donations are welcome), magazine on wildlife, nature, and recreation in Minnesota.