• Fundamentals of River Currents

• Strategies in Running Rivers

• Current speed, direction and changes caused by streambed features

• • How to paddle in current 

• Downstream and Upstream V's / Chutes

• • • Spacing/ Avoid "tunnel vision"  

• Eddies / Eddy Lines

• • Scouting 

• Waves/ Wave Holes

• • • From boat/ From shore 

• Bends

• • • How to establish the "best" route/ “Plan "B"

• Effects of Obstacles

• • Portaging Hazards 

• Ledges / Horizon Lines

• Group Organization on the River

• Strainers & Sieves

• • Group cohesiveness (lead, sweep boats, etc.) 

• Rocks / Pillows

• • Universal River Signals System 

• Holes / Hydraulics

• Emergency Procedures

• Other Hazards

Equipment

• Power of the Current / River Level

• Kayak: types, materials, flotation, parts (including safety features: walls, foot braces, grab loops)

• Cold Water

• Kayak outfitting: comfort & safety; back rests, hip pads
  

• Dams / Flow Diversion Structures / Pipelines

• Paddle: types, parts, length, blade size & shape, fitting, hand position
  

• Undercut Rocks / Ice

• Spray skirts: types & material, grab loop!

• River Classes

• Care of equipment

• Personal Equipment: water, food, shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, sun glasses, eyeglass straps, protective clothing for heat or cold, sponge, hat, foot protection, food, whistle
  

• Car topping: Loading and unloading, racks, tie down

• Life jackets (PFDs)