Dr. Janice Greene embarked on a journey of 100 miles, by kayak. She took on this challenge to learn more about the biology of the Missouri river, and the history of the towns along the banks.

The trip is Paddle MO, and it is a 100-mile trip sponsored by Stream Teams United with a purpose of learning and enjoying the biology and geology of the river.

“It was more difficult than I expected. With a low current, the possibility of dehydration and sunburns, it was a challenge,” said Greene.

The floaters stopped along the way to study, with presentations as they went.

“The trip reinforced the idea that people need to get outside, explore and learn about where they live,” said Greene. “I recommend the experience.”

Common sights, from a different viewpoint

Traveling by water through the Missouri’s wine country, Greene, director of Bull Shoals Field Station, was able to see a different view than what you see from the highway or from the towns.

Starting in Hermann and floating through New Haven and Washington, there were quite a few areas undeveloped along the river, providing a view of what the world may have looked like before man made his mark.

“I learned about the Missouri River, the shoreline towns and the Lewis and Clark Trail,” said Greene. “The towns we passed through were beautiful, I want to go back and explore.”