CHARLEMONT TRANSPORTATION FIELD GUIDE
Swiftwater Rescue L3–L5: ACA Instructor Update with Mike Mather — Charlemont’s Intensive Clinic
A focused instructor update for currently certified ACA instructors that reviews L3–L5 swiftwater rescue skills, ACA best practices, and teaching techniques over the scheduled clinic dates.
Swiftwater Rescue L3–L5: ACA Instructor Update with Mike Mather — Charlemont’s Intensive Clinic.
Set in Charlemont, this advanced ACA instructor update is designed specifically for presently valid ACA-certified instructors who bring prior paddling and teaching experience; the clinic revisits current ACA best practices, instruction techniques and a range of on‑water teaching scenarios so participants can demonstrate competency at their certified level.
Highlights
Clinic Highlights
Instructor Update — L3 to L5 Swiftwater Rescue
Updates are open only to presently valid ACA instructors and focus on reinforcing paddling skills, memorable instruction methods and safe judgment in swiftwater rescue contexts; the clinic reviews current ACA practices and teaching techniques.
Hands‑on Practice and Assessment
The clinic emphasizes practicing a variety of teaching techniques and real‑time demonstration of competency; note that participation does not guarantee passing the update requirement—participants must show competency at their current certification level.
All Equipment, Lunch and Transport Included
The listed rate covers equipment, instruction, a catered picnic‑style lunch and transportation from the operator’s base to and from the paddling sites, simplifying the day’s logistics so instructors can focus on coaching and assessment.
What the day feels like
What the Clinic Feels Like
This is an intensive, hands‑on update intended for experienced instructors: expect coached demonstrations of paddling technique, on‑water instruction practice, group teaching exercises and guided review of ACA guidelines — all oriented toward maintaining high instructional standards and safe judgment in swiftwater environments.
THE COURSE
Instructor Update — L3 to L5 Swiftwater Rescue
Updates are open only to presently valid ACA instructors and focus on reinforcing paddling skills, memorable instruction methods and safe judgment in swiftwater rescue contexts; the clinic reviews current ACA practices and teaching techniques.
THE TRAINING
Hands‑on Practice and Assessment
The clinic emphasizes practicing a variety of teaching techniques and real‑time demonstration of competency; note that participation does not guarantee passing the update requirement—participants must show competency at their current certification level.
THE LOGISTICS
All Equipment, Lunch and Transport Included
The listed rate covers equipment, instruction, a catered picnic‑style lunch and transportation from the operator’s base to and from the paddling sites, simplifying the day’s logistics so instructors can focus on coaching and assessment.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this clinic suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The clinic is presented as a 3‑day ACA instructor update; listed 2026 dates include September 10 and 11. Confirm exact schedule and any additional days with the operator.
Wear secure shoes (no flip‑flops or Crocs); avoid cotton—use wool or synthetic layers. Expect to get wet; bring required medications and extra money. Consider nose plugs and a retaining strap for sunglasses. Leave valuables and dry clothes locked in your vehicle as items will get wet.
Zoar Outdoor will provide paddling gear if needed, including wetsuit, paddle jacket, booties, boat, life jacket (PFD), helmet, paddle and sprayskirt; you may use your own equipment after confirming suitability with the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Who is eligible to attend this update?
Updates are open only to those who are presently valid ACA certified instructors; participants must be ages 18 and up.
What prerequisites are required?
This is an advanced clinic: participants should have prior paddling and teaching experience and hold current ACA certification.
What does the listed price include?
The person rate of $525 includes equipment, instruction, a catered picnic‑style lunch and transportation from the operator’s base to and from the paddling sites.
Is equipment provided or may I bring my own?
Zoar Outdoor provides paddling gear if needed (wetsuit, paddle jacket, booties, boat, PFD, helmet, paddle and sprayskirt). If you prefer to use your own equipment, call the operator to confirm its appropriateness.
What should I wear and prepare for on the water?
Wear shoes that can be secured to your feet (no flip‑flops or Crocs); avoid cotton layers, bring any required medications and expect everything you bring to get wet. Consider nose plugs and a sunglasses retaining strap.
If I participate, am I automatically updated?
No — participation does not guarantee passing the update requirement; participants will need to demonstrate competency at their current certification level.
Any accommodations for food allergies or special diets?
The operator provides a catered picnic‑style lunch but cannot guarantee the absence of allergens; if you have food allergies or special dietary needs, bring your own lunch in non‑glass containers and inform the office at 413‑339‑4010 or [email protected] so they can pack it with other lunches.