The Pend Oreille Rowing and Paddling Association exists to promote safe and responsible rowing in the Pend Oreille River valley of Idaho and Washington. We are located in Priest River Idaho and currently row from the Priest River Recreation Area “The Mudhole” in Priest River, Idaho.

PORPA is a non-profit organization that exists to promote safe and responsible rowing in the Pend Oreille River valley of Idaho and Washington. We base our operations at The Mudhole Campground in Priest River. We have a fleet of six rowing shells and have access to two more.

PORPA faced 2020 challenges with positive forward motion. Using the USRowing guidelines, PORPA members adapted and continued to row in 2020. New guidelines allowed individuals to row single shells, reserving double shells for multi- member family rowers. Additionally PORPA adjusted membership fees to better serve member’s budgets through financial uncertainty. The PORPA board of directors are confident that the club will continue adapting to support members in 2021. Especially helpful during the 2020 season, PORPA’s new website supported members with club updates, fleet information and allowed members to use online tools for booking row sessions, purchase gear and pay membership fees. See WWW.Porpa.org for more information.

The rowing season kicked off on July 18, 2020 and with the help of local residents, 2 more single shells were added to the fleet for members use. July and August recreational rowing registrations showed use almost every day. August provided ideal weather and tempuratures, proving to be the most spectacular time to row with 30 sessions logged on August 17th alone. A new spin on the season was the addition of “Ladies night” on Wednesdays. September smoke hindered activity but rowing continued until mid-October when water became too low to be safe at the Mudhole. October 22 concluded the rowing season with a sunny launch on Spirit Lake. 2020 memberships included 21 individuals, 9 family and 7 social members.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and PORPA continued to discuss recreational water use at the “Mudhole” facilities by the public as well as PORPA members. Using a survey of public users as a tool, the information gathered this summer is helping to determine non-motorized recreational needs in the future. Both entities are working together to provide more non-motorized opportunities for kayaks, canoes and stand up paddle boards.

Even though 2020 proved to be unsuitable for a Regatta event, members began planning for the 2021 season. Regatta activities are planned for early August and will also introduce paddling events for kayaks, canoes and SUPs. This fun event will be a celebration of water recreation for folks of all ages. PORPA will continue the Learn-To-Row program for beginners as well as a member Safety-Standown event in the spring (COVID-19 guidelines pending).

PORPA would like to wish everyone a Happy and Prosperous New Year and encourage people to continue to stay healthy and fit