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Rec Center rents canoes, kayaks for East Lagoon excursions

July 29, 2014

Canoe on the East LagoonThe gentle waters of NIU’s picturesque East Lagoon offer more than just the centerpiece for a walk, picnic or bonfire: Outdoor Adventures has announced a new policy that will allow the use of their canoes and kayaks on the East Lagoon.

Christine Lagattolla, assistant director of Outdoor Adventures, said she is excited by this new opportunity.

Canoes – as well as single- and double-seat kayaks – are available to rent at a nominal fee from the Adventure Center, housed inside the Student Recreation Center on the southwest corner of Lucinda Avenue and Annie Glidden Road.

Potential paddlers can visit the center from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday to pick up canoes and kayaks when available; feel free to call ahead to reserve vessels in advance. Renters also can make appointments for off-hour pickups.

A rental includes a car-top kit and Outdoor Adventures staff will help secure canoes and kayaks to car roofs; trailers are not available for rent, however. A temporary loading/unloading space is available in the adjacent parking lot near the west entrance.

Rates vary for NIU “affiliates” (students, faculty, staff, alumni, retirees or Campus Rec members), and members of the community are also able to rent equipment. Policies regarding rentals are available online.

The Adventure Center enjoys providing resources to the community so that they can benefit from the many opportunities of outdoor recreation. For more information, call (815) 753-9423 or email outdooradventure@niu.edu.