Sprint canoer and Olympian Andrew Russell on his special connection to water

By Andrew Russell
Why is water important to me?
I have grown up with an incredible attachment to water. Growing up as a paddler in Dartmouth, NS, I spent so much time on, in and around the water that I really cannot imagine my life any other way. Being close to the water will always be special to me.

© Balint Vekassy

What is my favourite body of water in Canada?
Lake Banook, Dartmouth, NS
Why is it important to keep our waters clean and healthy?
It is our most valuable resource. We have a responsibility to maintain the beautiful resources we have been blessed with as Canadians; for now and future generations.

© Balint Vekassy

Why have I chosen to get involved with the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup?
I have chosen to get involved because I believe this is an opportunity to get positively involved with a great initiative with real potential.
Why do I encourage others to get involved?
I would encourage others to join the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup because it is a positive opportunity to help preserve our waterways. We have a collective responsibility to maintain this resource; this is just one way to be involved.

(C) CanoeKayak Canada

Sign up at ShorelineCleanup.ca to participate in one of Canada’s largest direct action cleanup efforts from September 15-23, 2012 – right in your own community. Adopt a local shoreline as a site coordinator, or volunteer with an existing cleanup. You never know what you’ll find – perhaps you’ll be the one to find the next most unusual litter item! ShorelineCleanup.ca.