The 2009 Inland Sea Kayak Symposium combines food, art, and kayaking – all with a commitment to community and sustainability. Organized by the Inland Sea Society, the Symposium, now in its nineteenth year, promises kayak instruction, guided tours, seminars, presentations, and loads of fun and food. The four-day event held at Thompson’s West End Park in Washburn kicks off Thursday, June 18 and closes on Sunday, June 21.

The Inland Sea Society has worked to “green” the event over the years encouraging registrants to bring their own mugs and plates, and challenging them to reduce waste by carpooling, biking or paddling to the event. On Sunday, hundreds of kayakers will form a 350 on Lake Superior. Inspired by Bill McKibben’s talk last fall, the 350 represents the benchmark in parts-per-million carbon dioxide that represents safe levels for global climate. For more information visit www.350.org.

There are several ways to participate in the Symposium:

• Register for the entire event or for a day (day registration includes tours, classes, seminars, evening events and the Thursday night opener). Register online at www.inlandsea.org or by calling (715) 682-8188.

• Volunteer and participate. If interested contact Jen Maziasz at kruegmaz@centurytel.net

• Come check out the site during the weekend, if only to see hundreds of colorful kayaks assembled in one location. There will be a beach-full of vendors available to answer questions and let you try out equipment. There will be t-shirts, a silent auction, raffle tickets and all kinds fun.

• Study the schedule and come to the events that are open to the public like the Friday night lasagna feed put on by the Bayfield Regional Conservancy and take in the slideshow by Nigel Dennis, talking about his circumnavigation of South Georgia Island, located near Antarctica.

• Participate in one of the non-kayaking activities like Sit-On-Top Kayaking, Cooking for Crowds, a hike on Stockton Island and rowing. For a full program visit www.inlandsea.org or call (715) 682-8188.

• Be entertained – for free! – on Saturday night by checking out “Paddler Idol” at 7 p.m.  While you’re there you can buy a raffle ticket to help support the work of the Inland Sea Society or take in dinner at 6.

Bottom line: there’s something for everyone. Come check it out! For more information contact Julie Buckles at (715) 373-5565 or Jen Maziasz at (715) 373-5980.