The Columbia Gorge Kiteboarding Association represents the kiteboarders of the Gorge and is dedicated to the preservation and improvement of safe kiteboarding access to the Columbia River.
The CGKA holds a number of work/improvement parties at the beginning of each season. The large number of volunteers who show up to work has been recognized by the governing bodies in the gorge as well as other associations like the CGWA. Some of the work we have done has simply been impressive, like the Hood River Sandbar cleanups in 2007. In 2009,we have numerous initiatives in play:
- We are working with Oregon State Parks to make improvements at both Rowena and Viento to turn them into safe kiteboarding sites.
- We are working with the Port of Hood River to improve the launch at The Hook (We have longer range plans in play with the Army Corps of Engineers and the Port of HR to deploy a dock at the Hook for safe kite launching purposes. However, the Corps is not making this an expeditious process, but we are churning through the bureaucracy)
Kiteboarding has come a long way in The Gorge.
This is due in part to the kiteboarding community’s accomplishments and behavior over the past few years. As an example, by doing a great job in self policing the no-fly zone in front of the Event Site as an example has earned us the right to begin asking for a change in rules.
In 2008, we got the Port of HR to allow kiteboarding at the Eventsite from October 1st through April 30th every year. 2009
Now, you can now pump and dry your kite at the eastern end of the Eventsite all summer long (no launching, landing or lines of any kind).
We are a volunteer organization. Our progress is based on community help and involvement. Your dues and participation make it happen.
Look for CGKA events in 2011 and become a part of it!
CGKA 