BRIGHTON, Colo. – If you’ve ever wanted to try the tranquil and picturesque waters at Barr Lake State Park in a canoe, theAmerican Canoe Association will provide a certified instructor to teach the basic skills and safety techniques on Saturday, July 30. The park will supply everything else that you need for the class, including the canoe, a personal floatation device and paddles.

The canoe class will be offered from 9:00 a.m. to noon. To register, call the Barr Lake Nature Center at (303) 659-6005. Youngsters, 12-to-15 years old, must be accompanied by a participating adult, and 16-to-18 year olds must have a permission form signed by an adult on the morning of the class. Class size is limited to 10 people and there is a $15 non-refundable fee per person.

An annual park pass or a $7 day pass is required for each vehicle entering the park and may be purchased at the entrance station. Adverse weather conditions, including waves and wind, may result in abbreviated or cancelled canoe lesson. Funding for the class is provided by the Federal Boat Safety Program, which allows the park to keep the fees for the canoe lessons affordable for participants.

Enjoy the calm waters that are a peaceful, relaxing haven for sailing and canoeing. While boating, enjoy mountain views, jumping fish and waterfowl. Barr Lake is restricted to non-motorized activities and motorboats with 10 horsepower or less. There is no boating on the southern half of the lake because it is a wildlife refuge and home to over 350 species of birds. Great blue herons and double-crested cormorants are some of the birds nesting along the lakeshore. Bald eagles are currently feeding their two young. Western grebes, pelicans and wood ducks are a few of the waterfowl spotted on the lake. For current park conditions, or to find out more about Barr Lake State Park, visit the Web at www.parks.state.co.us.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado’s 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado’s economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state’s favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts.  For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us.