Strobridge Canoe Portage

Recreational use of the rivers in the Hoosic watershed is one of HooRWA’s objectives. There are a number of dams on the rivers, some continuing to serve a purpose, others residual structures only, but all being obstacles to navigating the rivers by canoe, kayak, or raft. Providing safe routes to portage around the dams is important for supporting recreation.

HooRWA is working with the Town of Pownal to develop such a route around the old Pownal Tannery dam that is now part of the Strobridge Recreation area. Currently the only way to portage around the dam includes walking along a section of active railroad track.

In 2007, HooRWA board members completed a ramp and cleared a path to the river downstream of the dam. Currently, they are working toward developing a travel route from a potential take out/put in location upstream of the dam, a very challenging project due to the terrain. But the project does appear to be doable and is being pursued. HooRWA has worked out a feasible plan for such a portage and is seeking funding for the project.
Stay tuned.