Nobody in his right mind would canoe the Ohio River, with the barge traffic. Right?

Wrong. Falls of the Ohio State Park invites anyone interested in fossils, birdwatching, and other outdoors activities to join in a canoeing/hiking expedition in the National Wildlife Conservation Area on the Ohio River on Saturday, August 6.

The group will meet at the park interpretive center at 9 a.m. and caravan to the river. Participants will be guided by a naturalist relating the natural and cultural history of the area. Occasionally, the group will examine rock formations and discover fossils that are seldom seen by visitors. The activity will last until noon, when the group will return to the interpretive center.

"We’ll canoe in calm waters, where no large boats are allowed to go, then we’ll hike around on fossil beds that are not accessible by foot this time of year," said Bett Etenohan, interpretive naturalist at Falls of the Ohio State Park. "With the canoes, we cover a lot of territory in a short time, and often get a close-up look at shore birds and wading birds such as the Great Blue Heron."

Participants should bring a personal flotation device (life jacket), water to drink, and sun protection, as well as a canoe. Canoes may also be rented through Canoe Kentucky by calling 888-CANOEKY for a reservation.

Etenohan suggests calling the interpretive center (812-280-9970) on Wednesday to make sure the river level is safe for boating.

All ages are welcome, but children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

"Our motive for offering these forays is to introduce canoeists to a safe and interesting place to go right in the middle of Greater Louisville," explained Etenohan. "Most people would never think of canoeing on the Ohio River because the barge traffic makes it so dangerous. This part of the National Wildlife Conservation Area, which covers 1,404 acres in its entirety, is a part of the river that is only open to small boats. It’s quite safe and offers lots to see, including unusual rock formations, three islands, a dike over 100 years old, and a great variety of birds and plants."

For more information, call 812-280-9970.