Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation FAQs
What time do we meet?
All the outings will meet at 8 am. Most outings end in mid afternoon with the participants back home by 5 or 6 pm.

Where do we meet in New Orleans?
We will meet at the Lakeside Shopping Center, opposite the Metairie Post Office. Just look for the canoes.

If you are willing to drive, be sure your vehicle is fueled and is ready to go. If you have passenger room for other members who may be driving by themselves, please let the staff know.

If you want to meet at the launch site/trail head instead of in New Orleans e-mail Byron for directions.

Who is the naturalist that represents the foundation?
Accompanying each group will be Dinah Maygarden whose teaching career has, for the last ten years, focused on Louisiana wetlands. Working for the Louisiana Nature Center, the Audubon Institute, and now for the Foundation, Dinah has published books and brochures plus produced a video on local wetlands, all while teaching numerous school groups from several parishes about the outdoors surrounding New Orleans.

Who leads the outings?
The outdoor guide/paddling instructor will be Byron Almquist from Canoe and Trail Adventures of New Orleans. Canoe and Trail will furnish the canoes and all the accessories plus provide group gear for the safety and comfort of the group.

What should I wear?
Dress for the forecasted weather. Wear old shoes or sandals with buckles that you can get wet since you may be walking in water at some point in the day. Also bring a nylon rain suit or poncho just in case of rain.

What should I bring?
Lunch and drink in a drybag or day pack. Also bring a change of footwear for the ride home and even a change of clothes in the remote chance that you will get wet during the day.

What is furnished?
For the paddling outings, canoes, life vests and paddles are provided. Group gear such as first aid, large tarps, and other items will be available if needed for the comfort and safety of the group.

What if the weather is bad?
If the forecast is really dismal the trip may be canceled the night before or the morning of. If the forecast is marginal, the outing will probably go on.

If you decide NOT to come for whatever reason (weather, illness, etc.), PLEASE CALL!! If before 7 am the day of the trip, call (504) 834-5257. If later, call (504) 606-2207, a cell phone. It is very important that you do so. Otherwise everyone else waits and wonders where you are.