Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation

Local Outfitter Schedules Family Fun Float on the Smith River

Jun 26, 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Crystal France
Director of Marketing/PR
Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation
276.403.5940
cfrance@yesmartinsville.com

Buster Ferguson
276.673.6836
276.732.8815
Ferguson583@hotmail.com


Local Outfitter Schedules Family Fun Float on the Smith River

Martinsville, VA (June 26, 2006) – Buster Ferguson of Smith River Juction announces a Family Fun Float on the Smith River on Saturday, July 22 at 1:00 PM. The 3 ½ mile trip begins at Whitby Acres in Bassett Forks and will conclude at Smith River Junction in Fieldale. Families are asked to bring their own canoe, kayak or boat. Canoes may be rented for $25 and kayaks for $20. There will be a $10 per boat shuttle charge.

Ferguson fell in love with the river when he was just a boy. He wants to make sure another generation gets to enjoy this gem. “The river is in the best form I’ve seen in a long time. The aquatic life is at its best and the trips are scenic and beautiful,” says Buster. “I love watching people enjoy the river – I hope we can have 50 boats (for the float).”

Trout fisherman have long valued the award winning brown trout in the Smith River, but more and more people are taking notice of Martinsville-Henry County’s “sleeping beauty” in a big way. Kayaks, canoes and rafts are finding their way down the river in growing numbers. This rediscovery has led to increased interest in developing and promoting the resource as a recreational destination.

The Smith River Junction was established in 2005 and offers canoe, kayak and rafts trips. Trips available range from 3.5 miles to 13 miles and paddle times vary from an hour to six hours. Please pre-register for the float by calling 276.673.6836 or 276.732.8815. For more information on services, rates and photos of the Smith River, go to www.smithriverjunction.net.

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