6th Annual Mayor and Chairman’s Paddle Rescheduled to April 19, 2025

Due to continued high water conditions, the City of Valdosta, Lowndes County, and the WWALS Watershed Coalition, also known as Suwannee Riverkeeper, have rescheduled the 6th annual Mayor and Chairman’s Paddle for Saturday, April 19, 2025. 

Join Valdosta Mayor Scott James Matheson and Lowndes County Chairman Bill Slaughter for a scenic and leisurely paddle along the Withlacoochee River. Paddlers can choose between two route options: 

  • A shorter three-mile trip, ideal for those looking for a relaxed experience. 
  • A longer 11-mile journey, perfect for more adventurous paddlers. 

This free event is made possible by a generous grant from Georgia Power, promoting outdoor recreation and clean waterways. 

Event Details 

Date: Saturday, April 19, 2025 
Location: Troupville Boat Ramp, 19664 Valdosta Hwy, Valdosta, GA 31602 
Directions: I-75 Exit 18, west on GA 133 (St. Augustine Road) away from the Valdosta Mall. At the traffic light for Val Tech Road, turn left down to the boat ramp in Lowndes County. 
Arrival time: As early as 8 a.m., no later than 9 a.m. 

Thanks to the Valdosta-Lowndes County Parks and Recreation Authority (VLPRA) for providing shuttle vans and to the Valdosta Boys & Girls Club for bringing youth and boats to participate. Special appreciation to Phil Hubbard for leading the expedition and Phil Royce for serving as sweep. 

Paddlers will begin at Troupville Boat Ramp, located at I-75 Exit 18. The left bank of the river follows Lowndes County, while the right bank follows Brooks County. 

What to Bring 

Participants should bring a personal flotation device, boat, paddles, food, drinking water, warm clothing, and a first aid kit. To support the event’s environmental focus, paddlers are encouraged to bring trash pickers and trash bags to help keep the waterways clean. 

This annual paddle is a collaborative effort between the City of Valdosta, Lowndes County, and the WWALS Watershed Coalition, also known as Suwannee Riverkeeper. The event highlights the importance of environmental stewardship and maintaining clean, healthy waterways for future generations. 

For more information, visit WWALS Watershed Coalition as Suwannee Riverkeeper website. 

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