The Coosa River Basin Initiative will host a 12-mile paddle on the Oostanaula River Saturday, Aug. 11. The 5-6 hour trip will provide participants with an opportunity to see many of the Coosa River Basin’s freshwater mussel species.

The trip begins at Ga. 156 near Calhoun and ends at Ga. 140 in Armuchee.

“The Oostanaula is a hotbed of mussel diversity.” said Joe Cook, CRBI Executive Director & Riverkeeper. “This particular section of river is a great place to see some of these unique creatures that often go unnoticed.”

There are 27 species of freshwater mussels in the Upper Coosa River Basin and the Oostanaula River is critical habitat for many of these species. Mussels are clam-like creatures that live on the river bottom and feed on nutrients which they filter from the water. Some of the Oostanaula’s mussels grow as large as dinner plates.

The trip is free to CRBI members. Non members are asked to join CRBI. Canoe and kayak rentals are available. To register for the trip, visit www.coosa.org. For additional information contact CRBI at 706-232-2724 or CRBI volunteer paddle trip coordinator, Alan Crawford at 706-346-3509. A small shuttle fee is charged for each vehicle.

CRBI staff will note points of interest along the route and discuss issues associated with the river.

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