Now That’s Paddling

An exciting new OARS initiative to enhance equitable recreational use of the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord (SuAsCo) rivers. We aim to engage volunteers and communities in river stewardship while providing fun activities and challenges for everyone.

Explore the programs below and join us in positively impacting & equitably accessing our rivers!

Join our River Recreation Activity Teams (River RATs) for free, family-friendly paddles on the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers—no experience needed! Each outing is led by trained volunteers who make river access possible for all. Want to help others connect with the rivers? Volunteer to become a River RAT and lead the way.

LEARN MORE ABOUT RIVER RATs

Discover upcoming opportunities to connect with our rivers through hands-on paddling and river stewardship experiences. OARS 3 Rivers Adventures are being developed to offer engaging, team-based activities that promote collaboration, outdoor exploration, and care for the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers. Designed for corporate teams and community groups, these adventures will combine recreation with conservation in meaningful and memorable ways.

LEARN MORE

Join us on this journey to protect, enjoy, and celebrate the SuAsCo rivers. Together, we can ensure these waters remain a vibrant resource for everyone. Get involved today and discover why “Now That’s Paddling!” is the perfect initiative for you!

~30%

of the SuAsCo rivers watershed is wetlands, crucial for wildlife habitat and water quality

~30%

of water samples in the SuAsCo rivers watershed contain PFAS, leading to increased monitoring and remediation by local authorities and environmental groups

~70%

of dams in the SuAsCo watershed are over a century old, requiring extensive upkeep and presenting obstacles to river restoration and fish passage

>40%

of the land within the watershed is publicly accessible, offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, boating, and birdwatching to the community

~15%

of the land in the SuAsCo rivers watershed is covered by impervious surfaces such as roads, rooftops, and parking lots. This contributes to stormwater runoff and water pollution issues

>40%

of the land within the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers watershed is publicly accessible, providing endless opportunities for paddling, hiking, and wildlife exploration.

Now That’s Paddling

Welcome to “Now That’s Paddling!”

Programs

Join us on this journey to protect, enjoy, and celebrate the SuAsCo rivers. Together, we can ensure these waters remain a vibrant resource for everyone. Get involved today and discover why “Now That’s Paddling!” is the perfect initiative for you!

Now That’s Paddling

Welcome to “Now That’s Paddling!”

Programs

Join us on this journey to protect, enjoy, and celebrate the SuAsCo rivers. Together, we can ensure these waters remain a vibrant resource for everyone. Get involved today and discover why “Now That’s Paddling!” is the perfect initiative for you!

OARS SEEKS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR