ECOS Raft the American River:
California Whitewater the Green Way

Ecology, the study of the intricate web of life on the Blue Planet, became an academic discipline a mere century ago. It began when the German botanist Eugenius Warming combined the Greek word "Ecos" meaning "household", with the Latin word "logos" or "knowledge." The result has been a revolutionary advance in human perspective. More than virtually any other branch of science, Ecology has helped us recognize that the choices we make are vital to the future of our species and that of planet Earth.

At Mother Lode our mission for over thirty years has been to inform, influence and ultimately make ecologically wise or "green" choices. Each of our programs incorporates "ECOS," a process that begins with hands-on Experiences in nature that are fun, challenging and educational. Eco-tourism encompasses some of what we do, but our goal is more ambitious. It is to allow our participants to Connect with nature. This involves learning to actively Observe and participate in carefully facilitated encounters with the natural world. For instance, while rafting we enjoy sharing how to read whitewater and the process of guiding the raft with you. While natural history "interpretation" is an important part of our trips, it is not a lecture. Rather we share with you our passion for and fascination with these special places. It is our goal to inspire your interest, and help you understand why Stewardship has always been such a vital aspect of the Mother Lode environmental philosophy.

This season we have expanded the scope of our Eco Rafting, Challenge Ropes and Outdoor Education Programs in new and innovative ways. Our ECOS Blog features articles that help explain recent developments such as:

1. EcoBus explains how using 100% waste vegetable oil as a green alternative fuel reduces the carbon footprint of our bus shuttles by up to 80%. See how we do it.
2. "Grange on Green" describes how a group of environmental activists from our local Grange Hall are helping us implement solar technology at our camp, expand our educational programs to include a green energy curriculum, and build a green resource for our community.
3. Solar Energy Exploratorium describes our hands-on exhibit that demonstrates the amazing potential of solar energy sources ranging from concentrating solar, to photovoltaics, to thermal solar. If you support having solar energy provide 65% of all our nation's energy needs by 2050 (January 2008 issue of Scientific American), consider getting involved yourself by converting one of the largest energy users in your home to solar with hand tools and only $300 in salvaged materials.
4. Permaculture describes the planned transformation of our organic garden to a sustainable ecosystem. With help from a local Master Gardener, a retired Professor of Agriculture at UC Davis and local Community College students, we plan to accomplish edible education.

So come enjoy great whitewater rafting on all three Forks of the American River this season. See what great fun it is to join the lean, clean, green MaLode rafting team!

We look forward to seeing you on the river.
Scott Underwood and the MaLode Crew

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