ridecamp@endurance.net: sorry--just re-sent last digest, deep water crossings

sorry--just re-sent last digest, deep water crossings

(no name) ((no email))
19 Mar 97 10:42:22 EDT

That was my fault that you're seeing the last digest again; (sheepish) sorry.

OBligatory endurance: I am "managing" a pleasure ride May 31 for my little
local riding club. There is a creek which is very wide, usually 1 /2 to 2 1/2
ft deep, and fast. Assuming regular conditions (no flooding at all), it's
going to be well above knees but below bellies for much of the way across.
Alternatives are bridges with no pedestrian shoulders but only low-to-moderate
traffic. If the water is up at all, the route will use a bridge or be
cancelled. I cross it often even with pony-size horses, but I've never crossed
if it looks faster or deeper than the low summer norm usually because I'm
either by myself or with green friend on a pony.

Even if the water is "normal low" level, I am worried about the depth because
it's deep enough for an incident. What is the "norm" at a competitive or
endurance ride (for experienced riders) for safety at these, (ex: 2 volunteers,
radio & lifejackets)? I'm thinking the bridge with its traffic is wiser, even
though it will require more volunteers for the length of the approach as well
as the intersection at the other end of the bridge? In our club, there are
green riders and kids with ponies. The club has been asking me to lead this
ride for years, but I can see I'll have to make sure each rider knows all these
details and alternatives to the route! Any suggestions?

Please reply with ideas to jbri@voicenet.com Sincerely, Bridget in SE PA.

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