This river ride is still a good way to go from the lecture hall: IGB scientist Alexander Sukhodolov at the edge of the Peode Falls in the Italian Sesia – mere seven metres fall lie ahead of him. | Photo: Jake Holland / gene17
What do freshwater researchers do in their free time? Right, they venture on the water. Since earlier this year, Alexander Sukhodolov, eco-hydrologist at IGB and experienced whitewater paddler, and his daughter Anna, German racing kayak vice-champion, are teaching bold IGB staff members how to paddle after work.
And how do scientists learn to paddle? Right, they study flow formulas and calculate gradients. Their lectures include fluid mechanics, river turbulence, paddling techniques, safety and rescue training, the correct equipment and the famous Eskimo roll. And now that winter is finally gone, the practical phase on the lake Müggelsee and the river Spree can also begin. Already in late summer, the paddling-novices want to explore the Italian Tagliamento – one of the Alps’ last wild rivers – and the Soča in Slovenia by kayak.
Dry runs in the lecture hall ;-) | Image: Alexander Sukhodolov / IGB
The tactical assessment of rapids, cascades, underwashes and rollers is essential. | Image: Alexander Sukhodolov / IGB
Class notes: How to paddle properly. | Image: Katharina Bunk / IGB
