White Salmon Boat Lending Library (WSBL)
Whitewater kayaking has been appropriately dubbed a “legacy sport”. Most of us who participate have been introduced to the sport by family members, or close friends; compliment that with the initial investment of equipment over $2000, there are obvious barriers to entry. We are going to change that.
Who We Are
We are a local, donation based, non-for-profit in the heart of the White Salmon kayaking community. We will offer access to gear and boats for newcomers to participate in river sports financially risk-free, and a way to integrate into the amazing community that we call home. Our board president is Galen Volkhausen with Natalie Anderson, Todd Wells, Chris Barker and Kyle Hull as sitting board members. Our boat Librarian is Amber Seitz. The library was started with a LEAD grant from NRS (Northwest River Supply).
Galen Volkhausen (middle), Board President stands with Board Members Natalie Anderson (owner of te Missing Corner) and Todd Wells (Dagger Kayaks) on opening day in 2021
The Mission
Our mission is to empower everyone to paddle. Our goal is to make this program accessible to anyone. With this goal in mind, WSBL aspires to promote whitewater kayaking, cultivate a love of the outdoors and minimize social and economic barriers so everyone can have the opportunity to enjoy the sport we love.
How to Gain Access
The boat library is open 24/7 to members. Orientations for new members are on Tuesdays at 5:30 pm. Click here to get started.
More Info
Visit the Boat Library’s Website: https://www.whitesalmonboatlibrary.org/
Here is a promotional YouTube Mini Documentary about the Library
Here is a local news feature on the Boat Library’s origins circa 2023
Donate
Paypal: paypal.com/donate
Cash: We have a secure drop box for cash and check donation by the front door of our facility in BZ.
Checks: Make payable to: White Salmon Boat Library mailed to our office or left in the drop box.
PO Box 1131,White Salmon, WA 98672
