mhabich

Links to forum discussions on other methods to prepare a chart: Using CalTopo Using an image editor https://www.nspn.org/forum/topic/12038-on-line-nautical-noaa-charts/ None of these methods is as easy or effective as we'd like, but your choice may depend on your previous familiarity with various types of software. The ideal might be the custom charts prototyped by NOAA, but the results are horrendous.

Let's be sure to include lat/long, scale, and compass rose or mag variation on any charts posted.

Pablo, did you make this chart using QGIS or by other means?

There is a folder for charts. Are you also asking for subfolders for region? Should be able to do this too.

Also watch for corrosion on battery contacts.

From Essex Board of Health: We continue to receive reports of cyanobacteria present throughout Chebacco Lake, most recently isolated to the areas of Gregory Island and Echo Cove. The Essex Board of Health is advising swimmers, boaters, and dog owners to beware of the dangers of harmful algal blooms and to avoid contact with the water when cyanobacteria is observed. The beach area at Centennial Grove remains closed; boating may resume, with caution to avoid areas where cyanobacteria is present. When in doubt, stay out! More information on harmful algal blooms may be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/harmful-algae-blooms-in-freshwater-bodies

MASSACHUSETTS – ANNISQUAM RIVER – BLYNMAN CANAL – Temporary Deviation and Full Channel Closure – The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has requested a temporary deviation from the regulation governing the operation of the Gloucester MBTA Drawbridge across the Annisquam River, mile 0.7. Under this temporary deviation, the drawbridge will remain in the closed position from September 8, 2020 to September 14, 2020 to allow the operating machinery and existing counterweight to be demolished. The vertical clearance in the closed position will be 16 feet, 4 inches. Vessels capable of passing under the bridge in the closed positon will be allowed to do so. Mariners are advised to plan accordingly and to exercise caution when transiting the area. The MBTA has also requested a full channel closure, including closure for emergency vessels, from September 15 to September 17, 2020, for additional demolition work. Mariners are advised to plan accordingly. Questions may be directed to the MBTA Resident Engineer, Matt Moorehouse at 617-839-8075. Chart 13281 LNM 35/20 (CGD1)

If you use the Thule line with a ratchet and an S-hook, throw away the S-hook and replace it with a carabiner. The S-hook will fall out out the car's tow eye if the line loosens.

Lake is closed. No session tonight.

If we’d gone tomorrow we might have had a chance to use it.

Pat, I’m canceling. We’re down to just you and me, and I’d want to see three for tomorrow’s conditions. Mike

15 kt calls for three to sea, We ended up with two. Next week...

If you’re coming, please send your float plan info (phone, emergency contact, boat, car) to me by PM or email. I seem to have messed up the form... David and Pat, you’re all set.

This week's Wednesday Lunch Paddle is on August 26, 2020. We will meet at 9.00 am at Pavilion Beach, Gloucester (aka the Greasy Pole). This is a crowded public area. Wear a mask. We also employ an online waiver to avoid passing around a physical piece of paper. You must register using the form link below to be sure that you're actually on the paddle. You could also indicate interest below to let other folks know who's coming. Location: Pavilion Beach in Gloucester (not Ipswich!): https://goo.gl/maps/YJyzx7w3uiZNYPdJ8 Parking: There is a small free lot on Western Ave (MA route 127) directly on the beach, but for a group of our typical size it will be necessary to drop boats at or near this lot, and then find a parking spot nearby on Western Ave. On a Wednesday morning spots should be easy to find. Beware that there are one or more spots adjacent to the little lot casually marked "Vendors only" and you will receive a hefty ticket if you park there. Registration: To attend, please register using this form which will also add your information to the float plan: https://forms.gle/13n5ZQigWFYjN79B7 PM or email me. Form isn’t working. You must be a paid-up NSPN member to join this trip. Your signup information will only be shared with other participants. Predictions: WNW wind 11 to 15 kt, with gusts as high as 24 kt. Sunny. Seas around 2 ft. Small craft advisory through 8 AM Wednesday. We'll keep watching this and make changes as appropriate. Gloucester Harbor tides: Wed 05:49 AM 8.89H Wed 11:49 AM 0.61L Wed 6:11 PM 9.81H When/what: We will meet at 9.00 am and launch as soon as we're ready. We'll likely head out around Eastern Point and Dog Bar, and hug the coast heading NE. If we go to Salt Island that's about 12 nm RT. This trip doesn't have a specific level: we'll determine the route based on who shows up, what people want to do, and what the environment wants to do. All properly equipped members are welcome: please bring boats with rigged deck lines, bulkheads, spray skirts, and dress for immersion. If you're not sure you have a safe vessel, please get in touch with us and ask. We encourage paddlers to make their own independent decision about their comfort level with conditions at the time of the paddle. Please PM me if you have questions or if you haven’t paddled with me before. Hope to see you there!