Photos and text by Carol Lollis
For the last 64 years, the Connecticut River Watershed Council has hosted an annual celebration in a different watershed state. This year it was in Massachusetts, at Brunelle’s Marina in South Hadley.
Some 200 people were on hand Saturday to help celebrate a cleaner, safer river.
“I like the fact we get to meet people from all over the watershed and to learn how they are connected to the river,” said Andrew Fisk, the council’s executive director.
The morning started off with a tour of the South Hadley Falls Canal and Park, followed by a learn-to-row event led by Stephanie Moore of Holyoke Rows.
There were also rides on the Lady Bea, a river-tour boat, and lawn games, as well as a stream table, a hands-on tool that simulates manipulation of the river.
“It’s a great event,” said Anne Awad of South Hadley, who was enjoying lunch at the marina. “It calls attention to this incredible asset in our backyard.”
“I love the river,” added Lionel MacDonald of Connecticut, who grew up in Northampton. “I have history in this river.”