From Ridge to Reef

​When we got a last-minute call from the Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB) that they needed kayaks and assistance for a conservation awareness project. We were all game! Especially when we found out it was for watershed impacts. Being naturalist and from this land, we care deeply about what happens to our land and oceans.
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The project was a collaboration between the Environmental Quality Protection Board (EQPB), Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) and Ngchesar State to showcase the importance of watershed to Coral Reef Research Conservationists from the US.

​Drone shot of starting point at Shimizu River. Look closely and you can see kayaks.

​The river was a refreshing new adventure since we spend most of our time in Koror’s Rock Island Southern Lagoon (RISL). We needed to scout the river and clear the way for any obstructions to the course. Shimizu River is the longest river in Palau that runs 7 miles from Melekeok to Ngchesar State on Babeldaob, the big island of Palau. One of the beauties of Babeldaob is the absence of mass development. Upon arrival, we admired the beauty of the river, the location and the people of Ngchesar State. 

​Paddling Palau Crew Getting ready to go down the river

Ngchesar State Rangers Crew

​We couldn’t get into the kayaks and on the river fast enough! Immediately, we were welcomed and woken up by fast flowing rapids that thrilled us all! They had us feel like kids and smile from ear to ear. This scout was off to a fun start. We met our first obstruction of a large tree log that was sticking out of the water. We moved it down river and this became the game of the day. Finding the next fallen tree or safety hazard to move without taking away from the beauty of the wild jungle aesthetic.
 
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​Ngchesar State and Paddling Palau clearing the way through the river.

It was astounding having a canopy of trees, dense pandanis and tangles vines enclosing us while we enjoyed the course the river had made. We followed the river to the mouth. We watched as the plants changed from fresh water inhabiting plants to salt water loving plants. We saw how the water went from crystal clear fresh water to dark and milky into brackish water eventually into the ocean we’re so familiar with. 

​Paddling Palau’s Bloyd, enjoying the scenery.

Drone Flying and posing with Ngchesar young boys and girls
We finished the scout at a dock where we made some new friends and hung out for a while before heading home to finalize the plan for the day to come. 

​Drone Flying and posing with Ngchesar young boys and girls

Because of the high number of kayakers, the day before the project we hauled the kayaks to Ngchesar where they would stay with some of the Paddling Palau Crew till the morning. We of course had to get back on the river for one more fun but final run. All was smooth and perfect. 

Adam, Douglas & Cobi, our overnight crew.

​prepared for 65 guests

​The next day we met with the researchers and EQPB at PICRC to give a presentation and briefing before heading to Ngchesar. 

​We were enthused to see the guests. We made the delivery as smooth as possible, getting everyone on the water and down the river to enjoy. In no time, we had over 20 people flowing down the river to adore and experience what we had just days before. It was fun to see others enjoying the beauty of the land. Although our crew doesn’t visit this river often, we were enthused to be a part of working with our community and sharing the beauty with others. 

We parted ways with the group at Jungle River Cruise where we hauled out the kayaks and loaded the truck and trailer to make runs back to Paddling Palau Head Quarters in Malakal. It made a great day after an incredible delivery. We had an amazing experience with the Shimizu River and were proud to be a part of something that was bringing awareness over issues we feel are important.  The bonding with the crew and excitement of new adventures fuel us for the busy season that is to come. We love this island and our beautiful land. We hope to continue to grow positive relationships with others like us that enjoy keeping this land pure. 

Paddling Palau & Jungle River Cruise

Ron, Adam, Macstyl, Douglas & Udoud 

Drone shot of land at the starting point of Shimizu River.

Shimizu River & Ngchesar Hills

Boat and Kayaks leaving the mouth, where the River meets the Ocean.

Onsite Crew for the day: Ron, Macstyl, EliLai, Udoud, Adam, Douglas, Cobi, Bloyd
Photos by Ron Leidich & EliLai Sugiyama
Video by Macstyl Sasao
Footage from Macstyl Sasao, EliLai Sugiyama & Cobi Jones
Written by EliLai Sugiyama