2009 Paddle for Pine Tree Camp

The 13th annual Paddle for Pine Tree Camp took place on Saturday, June 6 on the Kennebec River.  Two hundred fourty-five people paddled with a purpose…to support Pine Tree Camp.  Mother Nature was on our side as the weather was perfect.  Paddlers enjoyed sunny skies as the traveled the nearly 7 miles from Solon to North Anson. Click here to see photos.

“We had an amazing turn-out with such great enthusiasm. The event just keeps on growing!” said Darrell Buzzell, Maine Guide and founder of the Paddle for Pine Tree Camp.

The event drew paddlers of all ages, levels and abilities from all corners of Maine and beyond. In fact, one participant came all the way from San Antonio, Texas.  The Paddle marks the beginning of his summer vacation in Maine.  In addition, the event drew a number of Pine Tree campers and their families.  Many say it was a way of giving back to a place that has given so much to them.

Safety has always been the number one priority to organizers.  A group of volunteers with expertise in paddling volunteer to guide participants down the river.  This year, wardens from Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife boated down the river to ensure participants’ safety.

Live music courtesy of singer/songwriter Bill Cameron of Portland, could be heard as paddlers rounded the last corner of their approximately 3-hour trip to North Anson.   A celebratory barbecue awaited participants and volunteers featuring delicious food donated by local vendors.

Total raised:  Approximately $41,000