Welcome Danielle!

In January, we welcomed Danielle Redden on staff as the new River Program Manager at Bartram’s Garden. As part of a new strategic direction for Bartram’s, Danielle will be working to connect more people to Philly’s “Hidden River” – the Schuylkill – than ever before. In her words, “I have been navigating the magical grace of the lower Schuylkill River for over 14 years and am so lucky to have this opportunity to bring water-based programming to Southwest Philadelphia. We will be constructing a community boathouse and launching a public paddling program this summer!”

The 2nd annual RiverFest & Tidal Schuylkill River Boat Parade will take place this year on June 14. Expect free canoe and kayak rides, music, and lots of fun for the whole family! And starting June 20, we’ll be offering free public paddling sessions on the Schuylkill every Saturday through September, from 11 am to 3 pm. All ages and paddling skills are welcome! Kayaks, rowboats and lifejackets will be available for 30 minute paddles – first-come, first served – in the quiet and scenic stretch of the river off the Bartram boat dock. If you’ve never paddled before, our boathouse crew will be on-hand to offer instruction and safety tips.

In addition to Saturday public paddles, the boathouse will offer monthly member paddles and occasional special paddling trips, including evening sunset paddles and themed tours of this unique stretch of river. Stay tuned for more exciting developments along our stretch of the lower Schuylkill River in 2015!