I’m up for election to the American Canoe Association’s (ACA) Board of Directors. If you’re a member of ACA and 18 years of age I’d appreciate your vote. You should have received an email with a link to vote. Voting ends September 30th, 2026.
The ACA is…
The ACA mission statement declares, “We connect diverse communities by fostering a shared commitment to safety and stewardship, and by providing opportunities for challenge, achievement, and fun through paddlesports.”
In less formal words, the ACA is involved in competition, education, and stewardship. … and they offer an insurance program to individual members, instructors, Paddle America Clubs, and Event Organizers/Affiliate Organizations.
That’s great stuff, and I’d like to support their efforts.
My Interest in ACA…
I’d never heard of the ACA until a few years ago when I became active in the ocean kayak scene in the Pacific Northwest. My lapse in awareness is surprising, since I grew up in a boat in northern Minnesota. Canoes are a major part of my life.
I was president of the Oregon Ocean Paddling Society (OOPS, for short) for four years. OOPS promotes safety and education; two of the pillars of the ACA. More importantly, OOPS recognizes ACA certifications and paddling guidance when training trip organizers for the club. As president, I found their guidance helpful when defining our own OOPS policies.
I was a camper and counselor/guide for Camp Widjiwagan in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness during the 70’s and 80’s. That experience provided me with insights on wilderness trips, including safety (bring everyone back in one piece), stewardship (don’t burn the place down), challenge (300 rod portage), and fun (swimming at the base of a waterfall). All of these are ACA priorities, and I look forward to an opportunity to support those goals.
I welcome your questions and comments about the ACA and my desire to be on its board of directors.
Mark
P.S. please share this with your friends who are voting members of ACA.
More about me at https://niemannross.com