Noone Hogans,McCoys,Fishweir Trifecta

[north miami]

                                           ***   Noone Hogans,McCoys,Fishweir Trifecta-July 2011  ***

As events would have it, this year Noone emerged from Metro Jacksonville threads to materialize in person thanks to his gregarious,energetic and inclusive nature.
Although a Hogans Creek paddle was the crux of our visits,we never left dry land during those initial meetings which were dominated by discussions over politics,river advocacy,city happenings.Noone further hooked me with his "pieces of the puzzle" outlook.
Noone had joined the ranks of many leaders and now understood the need to be subtle if not down right illusive with candidate endorsements.
Though I might deem Noone's politics and approach to be less than perfect,the condition of the River System is plenty of evidence that the outlook by others,organizations is also less than effectively ideal.
By now Noone had conducted Downtown Waterway introductory paddle excursions with many,including runoff candidates for my city council district.

I was honored to be among the invitees however inwardly I was not particularly excited about an excursion to yet another beat up place.In my past involvement with regional and statewide conservation matters I had been ushered in to many sad environmental and community scenes.My own present back yard borders on a certifiably impaired waterway.Eventually,one makes a healthy retreat.

Noone was persistent,and frankly the election of Alvin Brown created a new sense of confidence and anticipation with Downtown matters.
Noone spiced the deal by suggesting a trip even more compelling.The paddle trip vision broadened:We would put in at Hogans creek,paddle to McCoys creek and then on to Fishweir creek.
And I get to be the guided for a change!

Like my childhood days in Miami the eve before a waterway adventure,I could barely sleep the night before our Downtown creek run.Guide Noone shows up at the house with vehicle packed full of kayaks.I leave my own kayak behind,but instinctively bring along my own familiar paddle and seat.Adventure!

On the drive to Downtown we decide to pick up some beer and batteries for our cameras and in honor of Alvin Brown we patronize the Downtown Winn Dixie.The first of many "Ah Ha!" moments lodges............I am spending money at an establishment I have driven past countless times on the way to somewhere else.
Before we leave Winn Dixie Noone produces a hand made poster; 'VISIT JACKSONVILLE ! " and has our pictures taken in front of the store.Noone is a walking Chamber of Commerce billboard.Me,a founder of "F.L.A.P.",the ardent anti promotion Florida League Against Progress.The odd couple.

Back in the van and moments later to a park like setting-Washington and Beaver."Ah Ha!".Hogans Creek.
The plan is to fish along the Trifecta route,my first photo of Hogans creek is of Noone's cast net piercing the surface....a perfect circle.The creek is full of fish.Incoming tide,a maritime salt smell and feel.
There is trash everywhere,floating,but having resided at the Southwesterly border of RAP I am near immune to specific trash presence focus or upset.
I explore a sandy foot path meandering through palm trees on the far side of the creek. "Ah Ha!".....I snap a photo,the scene easily mistaken for Talbot Islands State Park.
Noone quickly fills the bait bucket-off to the launch site.

The hand launch site is underneath a bridge overpass behind the Jacksonville Historical Society and Casket Company.
Noone shows me a the remnants of a railroad bed,aged cross ties and granite rock bed clearly visible.Noone is particularly excited about an old timey light pole.Noone is lucky,he is still five years old inside.

These outdoor trips always inject a sense of relaxation,excitement.Noone produces a bag of "Chicken Nuts",a zesty combination of fried chicken,pepper and sweets locally produced by MJ screen name Pearl.Bet 'ya can't have just one handfull!We assemble our gear at the firm,sandy creek shore line underneath the overpass.The lauch site is ideal.The tidal flow readily apparent.
Out comes the "VISIT JACKSONVILLE !" poster,cameras click.
Noone places the precious Winn Dixie Cargo on my assigned kayak.I cinch the tie down straps extra tight.
"Ah Ha!"I can not wait any longer and with solemn announcement,make my first cast to Hogans creek,inland Downtown Jacksonville.The light spinning outfit feels good in my hand,the lure streams to the hoped for placement.Perfect!

Now underway,we work our way upstream.Bird nests in overhanging oaks,undeveloped flood plain,sweet smelling shrubs,buzzing bees.
We reverse course,heading downstream,against the current.The creek twists and turns amidst a decidedly urban viewscape,crisscross overpasses.I note an obscure small side creek mouth,cattail lined creek branch projecting to the west alongside a parking lot,more like a ditch at first glance.I make a note to research area mitigation parcels history.
We come to the horizontal metal bridge assembled for the Super Bowl."Turtle Meat For Sale" is spray painted on the concrete wall below the bridge.Here is the location of the famed Shopping Cart Depth Meter.The water level is unusually high,we can barely see the telltale wheels-with reverence we touch the wheels with our paddles.
The greenery gives way to concrete walls,rip rap.Like magic,as if floating in air through Downtown.
Soon we are abeam of the Maxwell House plant,and then under the low bridge at the mouth of Hogans creek.

Entering the River,butt water level,the view is awesome.Exhilirating.
As anticipated and in fact planned on,there is an incoming tide and a strong one at that,influenced by Northeasterly winds as a result of a tropical storm off Southeast Florida.
We slowly paddle out from the mouth,it is overcast,a heavy rain band off to our left at Exchange Island.
Galncing back to the creek;"Ah Ha!"-so that is where Hogan creek is.I have traveled this section of the river by boat  countless times without knowing of the pin point location of Hogans.

It is apparent that  Hogans creek can also serve as a convenient,spontaneous access point to the River,Exchange Island.
Dabbling there on the River,we talk of how such potential could be developed by individual advocates and promoters even in the face of,and in spite of lack of official City involvement thanks in part to The Web.
We have already begun by making Proclamations,naming landmarks on our own.

Now the tide grabs us,pulling us away from Hogans creek mouth runway,we swing towards the core.Upon whisking past "Noone Point" (Shipyards Public Pier) we are enveloped in the smell of coffee.
The placid creek condition gives way to convoluted waves,swirls.
Quickly we arrive at the Hyatt parking lot-the water level too high to duck under and explore,a disappointment for Noone.
With paddles at rest we drift alongside the Landing,as if a Disney ride.Wide eyed onlookers wave.It is early on a Sunday morning.

We lay up at the railroad bridge and fish the shoreline and bridge structure intently.The railroad bridge span looks ominous when viewed butt water level from it's base,in the back drop of the gray sky.The incoming tide is diverted to a large whirlpool motion.Round an' round.I snap a picture of a train over Noone's head.
There is a glimpse of the tip of the undulating fountain geyser beyond.
Scanning further to the right,South and Southwesterly past the hospital,to I-95 the view broadens,miles to the distant shore.
Continuing the circular scan,now I-95 reaches land,the distant horizon shifts,the RAM docks....the St Joe Building and shoreline hutch that reminds me of a big bullet .....now the YMCA....Tillie Fowler memorial.....the Haskell building,light and bright in the gray day.....following the shoreline closer and closer,almost full circle...the Times Union building,two sets of identical white cars parked above a dark rectangle.The rectangle is the entrance to McCoys creek.

The chrome bumpers pass overhead.We have entered a cave,a glimmer of light at the distant far end.The horizontal ceiling gives way to arched overhead.
Spray painted four letter expletives that any worthy editor would delete are plastered everywhere.
Deep watery echoes resonate with each dip of the paddle.
Interesting-with a strong  incoming flood tide I notice an outflow,likely fresh water,suggesting a sizeable watershed system.I am tempted to taste the water for 'fresh' or 'salt'...... though the City's Tributary Assesement program (thank you COJ,Dana Morton!) has tracked improving water quality I decide against it.

The thought makes me thirsty.Precious cargo?Noone nods affirmative.The sweaty bottles glow in the distant light.
I raise mine high,snap a picture and we proclaim a JUWDZ....Jacksonville Urban Waterway Drinking Zone.
I work through my meager precious cargo ration rather quickly.Indeed,the effect of alcohol is greater on the water.The mind wanders towards familiar rowdy themes.Here,underneath the Florida Times Union building,site of countless column inches....miles!......of Editorial River Advocacy that has streamed overhead dating back to at least the days of FTU writer William Sweisgood.
"Ah Ha!"Is McCoys creek an embarassing secret,a curse,a generational dynamic,the final missing piece of flawed River Advocacy??
We offer a toast to Howard Soloman.
Time to enter the light.

We move upstream,emerge from the tunnel flat on our backs,eyes facing upward....at this section of McCoys there are multiple horizontal beams overhead bracing the shoreline bulkheads.The flood tide leaves little wiggle room.The sky has turned blue.Born Anew.

The overhead lid and following road overpass behind us,the creek turns to the left,around another tall bulkhead to port.
We swing around the corner and pause....the beautiful panorama could be mistaken for upper Black Creek in Jennings Forest.Birds scatter everywhere.
And the trash.Dang,I'm getting used to it.No sense in 'clean up' efforts,our craft could hardly carry out enough to make a difference.After all,this is a future CMOCETZ;Considerable More Official City Effort Trash Zone.
Soon we come to a haunting sight...........an abandoned boat,listing to one side.Noone quickly and correctly identifies the hull to be a Carolina Skiff.We take note and photo the registration; FL 3661 LP
The State Office of Boating and Waterways will be contacted.McCoys is on the radar screen.
"Ah Ha!",there is the Prime Osborne building! So close!Colorful,creative graffiti on the overpass pilings seems so in place,acceptable.This is urbane!WAZ;Waterway Art Zone.

In fact the creek here has many characteristics of area wild land creeks with steep banks on one side,coves,sandbars across the other side.Mature trees including pines,cypress and the obviously intrusive China Berry.

Now to port...a camp!! The term "homeless camp" misleading,this one is complete with tent.
We search the woods intently for signs of life.No doubt reclusive hidden eyes are watching our every move.....
The camps intrigue.This I must see,and photograph for the historical record for these camps,circa 2011 are as real to Jacksonville as the rail beds behind the Historical Society building Noone led me to.
I swerve the kayak in close up to the camp and come alongside the sandy beach,one of Jacksonville's finest waterfront locations.There is a sweet smell.....woman's perfume??
A refrigerator grill is thoughtfully projecting out over a shoreline fire pit.
I imagine the view in the camera viewfinder framed and displayed years from now at the Historical Society.Click,click.
(NOTICE:A couple of days later in discussion with JSO I was informed that the homeless camps can prove dangerous-the inhabitants typically suffer mental disorders,exhibiting swings from recluse to aggression.When Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission officer Robert Brienza entered the creek zone in search of FL 3661 LP he made sure to do so only with concerted back up)
I pull away from the camp,but with each paddle stroke forward the kayak is yanked backwards..........heart sinks,ears prick back,alert mode! I imagine kayak paddle as defensive weapon......look back...."AhHa!"...a willow branch has become stuck on the precious cargo chest.
Eventually we come upon a pipe at water level and turn back.McCoys becomming familiar.

Through the tunnel,towards the light,out to the far horizon scene.
We still have an incoming push tide and thankfully the strong wind is towards the direction we are going.

Up close to the bank the shoreline trash is evident,stunning-a view not typically available from vessels running the center,and perhaps not even from the walk ways.

The Disney ride continues,around to the RAM docks,under I-95 and out to inside the big horizon.
The varied aspects of the river viewscape and experience really settles in.As we round the corner,past Memorial Park,the guided becomes the guide.In the only tone of trepidation I have ever heard in Noone's voice,he asks where in the world is the Ortega Bridge,near the entrance to Fishweir?This is a face of the River new to John.There are long fetch swells that turn the kayaks in to surf boards,rougue waves spill inside.I dabble my feet overboard.Noone's sit on top kayak is much more positive,safer and pleasant than my Necky Looksha sit inside.
Glorious big sky and a true "offshore" feel.Wide open water .Past the Hospital,home after home.No further sign of trepidation,Noone is now far ahead,actually an attentive compliment that I can obviously be left on my own,Noone's kayak as if a tiny rotomolded flotsam on the distant horizon.Later we hug the shore,dodging dock pilings as if kids at play.We are Five again.The wind direction is shifting towards the east.Who else in town is minding such matters?It's a different world on the water.

Finally the Ortega Bridge emerges on the horizon.Closer and closer.We round the corner on in to Fishweir Creek.
"Ah Ha!" morphs to 'aw,shucks' familiarity.Past the recent spate of new docks.The high water has masked the siltation flats.No need to snake through the narrow channel past the Loop.Under and past the Herschel street bridge and Noone spots the exposed siltation sand bars.The view upstream appears rural.The creek narrows,wooded canopy overhead.We could continue on to Rosevelt Blvd.,through the culverts,up to the Hamilton Street woods,site of two Ron Littlepage editorials concerning Creek Trash loading.A third editorial never appeared-Ron quite correctly said only a tax increase could answer the need.The Storm Water Fee has been in place for quite some time since.Fishweir creek restoration has lagged for fifteen years. Too many fits and starts,the joint City/Federal Restoration Project held hostage to the whims of Congress.
"Aw,Shucks",we have had enough Tunnels for the day,turn around and beach at the Southwesterly boundary of RAP.
Closer kinship,understanding of Jacksonville and the River City Urban Waterways that course through our lives.
We all deserve a good paddling.
Thank you Noone and Metro Jacksonville.

Although the Creeks and River exhibit some ills the waterways remain a superb recreation source.

  Use,Enjoy,Protect.
                                      ********** Visit Jacksonville's Urban Waterways Destinations  *********

[Noone]

NM, Great Post. We had Fun.
Can't wait to share another Urban Waterway Adventure with you.

[north miami]

                                              The Vision for the Emerald Necklace

"......connected and beautiful system of trails........components include....resolving environmental issues....linking the creeks and river....'
"....the creeks and it's banks must be cleaned,contaminants removed.The breadth and scope of this expands well North and East of Downtown to pollutant sources....."

                     Next Action Steps,timing:
Phase I McCoys Creek Greenway Action Plan-Complete
Phase II McCoys Creek,improve connections from Emerald Necklace to river,upland activity nodes-2008-2010
Phase III Construction Phase II - 2009-2011
Phase IV Design Engineering Ecological Restoration of McCoys creek;dredge sediment,create littoral shelf wetlands,remove contaminants - 2010-2012
Phase V Construction Phase IV- 2012-2014

     Downtown Action Plan JEDC  December,2007

[dougskiles]

Looks like we have some catching up to do.

[north miami]

"Emerald Necklace" as a definitive waterway identity has been applied to at least half a dozen urban waterways throughout the Nation.Boiler Plate.Citizen driven awareness,empowerment would probably spur a different Title,Name.

For starters..........Crown Of Thorns.....?

[north miami]

                                       Surface Water Improvement and Management
                                                 Plan update 2008. FInal Draft

Hogan Creek Ecosystem Restoration (2005)
Funding for the Hogan Creek Ecosystem Restoration Project in Downtown Jacksonville was suspended in 2005.The Project team was evaluating wetland restoration alternatives in the feasibility phase when funding was suspended
                                                                3-40
McCoy Creek (1993-2007)
SJRWMD was consulted as an external party to review the project scope for the flood control project at McCoy Creek,which included issues with sediment contamination.The project was put on hold,and a new site is being pursued for a storm water treatment area (STA).This project was completed as a joint effort between the COJ and SJRWMD.This project is expected to continue as a new site is identified and the project continued.
                                                                3-42
Fishweir Creek Remediation (2005-2007)
The efforts to date include preliminary diagnostic testing and a planning and alternative analysis.Results from the preliminary diagnostic testing indicate low level contamination with pesticides,metals,and industrial contaminants.Future efforts will include more specific site assessments,determination of an appropriate remediation strategy,and implementation of the project plan.This project is a cooperative effort between USACE,COJ,FDEP,and SJRWMD.
                                                                3-42
(NM note re Fishweir;
November 16,2011 USACE Notice of Availability for the Draft Integrated Detailed Project Report and Environmental Assessment of Big Fishweir Creek,City of Jacksonville,Duval County,Florida)

                     

[Noone]

Did anyone go to the Board meeting of the St. Johns River Aliance yesterday? Does anyone know who is representing Duval county? There are 11 other counties. I've been asking Don Redman chair of Waterways and Scott and they don't have a clue. FIND meeting in an hour at the beach. Anyone going? Another opportunity to mention Fishweir Creek or any water related issue.

FIND meetings are always so exciting to hear what is occurring in other counties. It will now be 3 years this meeting when the commissioners of FIND said that I would need a sponsor a city councilman and here it is 3 years later and don't have a sponsor.

The Public Trust in Duval county just destroyed. I'll mention Shipyards III. The Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier. McCoys Creek a total clear cut. 

[north miami]

"Reversing the present degradation in the ecosystem of Big Fishweir Creek will stand as a progressive action for securing the future welfare of the surrounding community"
     Draft DPR & Draft EA.  September 2011.   Section 2-4

[Know Growth]

                                           ***   Noone Hogans,McCoys,Fishweir Trifecta-July 2011  ***

As events would have it, this year Noone emerged from Metro Jacksonville threads to materialize in person thanks to his gregarious,energetic and inclusive nature.
Although a Hogans Creek paddle was the crux of our visits,we never left dry land during those initial meetings which were dominated by discussions over politics,river advocacy,city happenings.Noone further hooked me with his "pieces of the puzzle" outlook.
Noone had joined the ranks of many leaders and now understood the need to be subtle if not down right illusive with candidate endorsements.
Though I might deem Noone's politics and approach to be less than perfect,the condition of the River System is plenty of evidence that the outlook by others,organizations is also less than effectively ideal.
By now Noone had conducted Downtown Waterway introductory paddle excursions with many,including runoff candidates for my city council district.

I was honored to be among the invitees however inwardly I was not particularly excited about an excursion to yet another beat up place.In my past involvement with regional and statewide conservation matters I had been ushered in to many sad environmental and community scenes.My own present back yard borders on a certifiably impaired waterway.Eventually,one makes a healthy retreat.

Noone was persistent,and frankly the election of Alvin Brown created a new sense of confidence and anticipation with Downtown matters.
Noone spiced the deal by suggesting a trip even more compelling.The paddle trip vision broadened:We would put in at Hogans creek,paddle to McCoys creek and then on to Fishweir creek.
And I get to be the guided for a change!

Like my childhood days in Miami the eve before a waterway adventure,I could barely sleep the night before our Downtown creek run.Guide Noone shows up at the house with vehicle packed full of kayaks.I leave my own kayak behind,but instinctively bring along my own familiar paddle and seat.Adventure!

On the drive to Downtown we decide to pick up some beer and batteries for our cameras and in honor of Alvin Brown we patronize the Downtown Winn Dixie.The first of many "Ah Ha!" moments lodges............I am spending money at an establishment I have driven past countless times on the way to somewhere else.
Before we leave Winn Dixie Noone produces a hand made poster; 'VISIT JACKSONVILLE ! " and has our pictures taken in front of the store.Noone is a walking Chamber of Commerce billboard.Me,a founder of "F.L.A.P.",the ardent anti promotion Florida League Against Progress.The odd couple.

Back in the van and moments later to a park like setting-Washington and Beaver."Ah Ha!".Hogans Creek.
The plan is to fish along the Trifecta route,my first photo of Hogans creek is of Noone's cast net piercing the surface....a perfect circle.The creek is full of fish.Incoming tide,a maritime salt smell and feel.
There is trash everywhere,floating,but having resided at the Southwesterly border of RAP I am near immune to specific trash presence focus or upset.
I explore a sandy foot path meandering through palm trees on the far side of the creek. "Ah Ha!".....I snap a photo,the scene easily mistaken for Talbot Islands State Park.
Noone quickly fills the bait bucket-off to the launch site.

The hand launch site is underneath a bridge overpass behind the Jacksonville Historical Society and Casket Company.
Noone shows me a the remnants of a railroad bed,aged cross ties and granite rock bed clearly visible.Noone is particularly excited about an old timey light pole.Noone is lucky,he is still five years old inside.

These outdoor trips always inject a sense of relaxation,excitement.Noone produces a bag of "Chicken Nuts",a zesty combination of fried chicken,pepper and sweets locally produced by MJ screen name Pearl.Bet 'ya can't have just one handfull!We assemble our gear at the firm,sandy creek shore line underneath the overpass.The lauch site is ideal.The tidal flow readily apparent.
Out comes the "VISIT JACKSONVILLE !" poster,cameras click.
Noone places the precious Winn Dixie Cargo on my assigned kayak.I cinch the tie down straps extra tight.
"Ah Ha!"I can not wait any longer and with solemn announcement,make my first cast to Hogans creek,inland Downtown Jacksonville.The light spinning outfit feels good in my hand,the lure streams to the hoped for placement.Perfect!

Now underway,we work our way upstream.Bird nests in overhanging oaks,undeveloped flood plain,sweet smelling shrubs,buzzing bees.
We reverse course,heading downstream,against the current.The creek twists and turns amidst a decidedly urban viewscape,crisscross overpasses.I note an obscure small side creek mouth,cattail lined creek branch projecting to the west alongside a parking lot,more like a ditch at first glance.I make a note to research area mitigation parcels history.
We come to the horizontal metal bridge assembled for the Super Bowl."Turtle Meat For Sale" is spray painted on the concrete wall below the bridge.Here is the location of the famed Shopping Cart Depth Meter.The water level is unusually high,we can barely see the telltale wheels-with reverence we touch the wheels with our paddles.
The greenery gives way to concrete walls,rip rap.Like magic,as if floating in air through Downtown.
Soon we are abeam of the Maxwell House plant,and then under the low bridge at the mouth of Hogans creek.

Entering the River,butt water level,the view is awesome.Exhilirating.
As anticipated and in fact planned on,there is an incoming tide and a strong one at that,influenced by Northeasterly winds as a result of a tropical storm off Southeast Florida.
We slowly paddle out from the mouth,it is overcast,a heavy rain band off to our left at Exchange Island.
Galncing back to the creek;"Ah Ha!"-so that is where Hogan creek is.I have traveled this section of the river by boat  countless times without knowing of the pin point location of Hogans.

It is apparent that  Hogans creek can also serve as a convenient,spontaneous access point to the River,Exchange Island.
Dabbling there on the River,we talk of how such potential could be developed by individual advocates and promoters even in the face of,and in spite of lack of official City involvement thanks in part to The Web.
We have already begun by making Proclamations,naming landmarks on our own.

Now the tide grabs us,pulling us away from Hogans creek mouth runway,we swing towards the core.Upon whisking past "Noone Point" (Shipyards Public Pier) we are enveloped in the smell of coffee.
The placid creek condition gives way to convoluted waves,swirls.
Quickly we arrive at the Hyatt parking lot-the water level too high to duck under and explore,a disappointment for Noone.
With paddles at rest we drift alongside the Landing,as if a Disney ride.Wide eyed onlookers wave.It is early on a Sunday morning.

We lay up at the railroad bridge and fish the shoreline and bridge structure intently.The railroad bridge span looks ominous when viewed butt water level from it's base,in the back drop of the gray sky.The incoming tide is diverted to a large whirlpool motion.Round an' round.I snap a picture of a train over Noone's head.
There is a glimpse of the tip of the undulating fountain geyser beyond.
Scanning further to the right,South and Southwesterly past the hospital,to I-95 the view broadens,miles to the distant shore.
Continuing the circular scan,now I-95 reaches land,the distant horizon shifts,the RAM docks....the St Joe Building and shoreline hutch that reminds me of a big bullet .....now the YMCA....Tillie Fowler memorial.....the Haskell building,light and bright in the gray day.....following the shoreline closer and closer,almost full circle...the Times Union building,two sets of identical white cars parked above a dark rectangle.The rectangle is the entrance to McCoys creek.

The chrome bumpers pass overhead.We have entered a cave,a glimmer of light at the distant far end.The horizontal ceiling gives way to arched overhead.
Spray painted four letter expletives that any worthy editor would delete are plastered everywhere.
Deep watery echoes resonate with each dip of the paddle.
Interesting-with a strong  incoming flood tide I notice an outflow,likely fresh water,suggesting a sizeable watershed system.I am tempted to taste the water for 'fresh' or 'salt'...... though the City's Tributary Assesement program (thank you COJ,Dana Morton!) has tracked improving water quality I decide against it.

The thought makes me thirsty.Precious cargo?Noone nods affirmative.The sweaty bottles glow in the distant light.
I raise mine high,snap a picture and we proclaim a JUWDZ....Jacksonville Urban Waterway Drinking Zone.
I work through my meager precious cargo ration rather quickly.Indeed,the effect of alcohol is greater on the water.The mind wanders towards familiar rowdy themes.Here,underneath the Florida Times Union building,site of countless column inches....miles!......of Editorial River Advocacy that has streamed overhead dating back to at least the days of FTU writer William Sweisgood.
"Ah Ha!"Is McCoys creek an embarassing secret,a curse,a generational dynamic,the final missing piece of flawed River Advocacy??
We offer a toast to Howard Soloman.
Time to enter the light.

We move upstream,emerge from the tunnel flat on our backs,eyes facing upward....at this section of McCoys there are multiple horizontal beams overhead bracing the shoreline bulkheads.The flood tide leaves little wiggle room.The sky has turned blue.Born Anew.

The overhead lid and following road overpass behind us,the creek turns to the left,around another tall bulkhead to port.
We swing around the corner and pause....the beautiful panorama could be mistaken for upper Black Creek in Jennings Forest.Birds scatter everywhere.
And the trash.Dang,I'm getting used to it.No sense in 'clean up' efforts,our craft could hardly carry out enough to make a difference.After all,this is a future CMOCETZ;Considerable More Official City Effort Trash Zone.
Soon we come to a haunting sight...........an abandoned boat,listing to one side.Noone quickly and correctly identifies the hull to be a Carolina Skiff.We take note and photo the registration; FL 3661 LP
The State Office of Boating and Waterways will be contacted.McCoys is on the radar screen.
"Ah Ha!",there is the Prime Osborne building! So close!Colorful,creative graffiti on the overpass pilings seems so in place,acceptable.This is urbane!WAZ;Waterway Art Zone.

In fact the creek here has many characteristics of area wild land creeks with steep banks on one side,coves,sandbars across the other side.Mature trees including pines,cypress and the obviously intrusive China Berry.

Now to port...a camp!! The term "homeless camp" misleading,this one is complete with tent.
We search the woods intently for signs of life.No doubt reclusive hidden eyes are watching our every move.....
The camps intrigue.This I must see,and photograph for the historical record for these camps,circa 2011 are as real to Jacksonville as the rail beds behind the Historical Society building Noone led me to.
I swerve the kayak in close up to the camp and come alongside the sandy beach,one of Jacksonville's finest waterfront locations.There is a sweet smell.....woman's perfume??
A refrigerator grill is thoughtfully projecting out over a shoreline fire pit.
I imagine the view in the camera viewfinder framed and displayed years from now at the Historical Society.Click,click.
(NOTICE:A couple of days later in discussion with JSO I was informed that the homeless camps can prove dangerous-the inhabitants typically suffer mental disorders,exhibiting swings from recluse to aggression.When Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission officer Robert Brienza entered the creek zone in search of FL 3661 LP he made sure to do so only with concerted back up)
I pull away from the camp,but with each paddle stroke forward the kayak is yanked backwards..........heart sinks,ears prick back,alert mode! I imagine kayak paddle as defensive weapon......look back...."AhHa!"...a willow branch has become stuck on the precious cargo chest.
Eventually we come upon a pipe at water level and turn back.McCoys becomming familiar.

Through the tunnel,towards the light,out to the far horizon scene.
We still have an incoming push tide and thankfully the strong wind is towards the direction we are going.

Up close to the bank the shoreline trash is evident,stunning-a view not typically available from vessels running the center,and perhaps not even from the walk ways.

The Disney ride continues,around to the RAM docks,under I-95 and out to inside the big horizon.
The varied aspects of the river viewscape and experience really settles in.As we round the corner,past Memorial Park,the guided becomes the guide.In the only tone of trepidation I have ever heard in Noone's voice,he asks where in the world is the Ortega Bridge,near the entrance to Fishweir?This is a face of the River new to John.There are long fetch swells that turn the kayaks in to surf boards,rougue waves spill inside.I dabble my feet overboard.Noone's sit on top kayak is much more positive,safer and pleasant than my Necky Looksha sit inside.
Glorious big sky and a true "offshore" feel.Wide open water .Past the Hospital,home after home.No further sign of trepidation,Noone is now far ahead,actually an attentive compliment that I can obviously be left on my own,Noone's kayak as if a tiny rotomolded flotsam on the distant horizon.Later we hug the shore,dodging dock pilings as if kids at play.We are Five again.The wind direction is shifting towards the east.Who else in town is minding such matters?It's a different world on the water.

Finally the Ortega Bridge emerges on the horizon.Closer and closer.We round the corner on in to Fishweir Creek.
"Ah Ha!" morphs to 'aw,shucks' familiarity.Past the recent spate of new docks.The high water has masked the siltation flats.No need to snake through the narrow channel past the Loop.Under and past the Herschel street bridge and Noone spots the exposed siltation sand bars.The view upstream appears rural.The creek narrows,wooded canopy overhead.We could continue on to Rosevelt Blvd.,through the culverts,up to the Hamilton Street woods,site of two Ron Littlepage editorials concerning Creek Trash loading.A third editorial never appeared-Ron quite correctly said only a tax increase could answer the need.The Storm Water Fee has been in place for quite some time since.Fishweir creek restoration has lagged for fifteen years. Too many fits and starts,the joint City/Federal Restoration Project held hostage to the whims of Congress.
"Aw,Shucks",we have had enough Tunnels for the day,turn around and beach at the Southwesterly boundary of RAP.
Closer kinship,understanding of Jacksonville and the River City Urban Waterways that course through our lives.
We all deserve a good paddling.
Thank you Noone and Metro Jacksonville.

Although the Creeks and River exhibit some ills the waterways remain a superb recreation source.

  Use,Enjoy,Protect.
                                      ********** Visit Jacksonville's Urban Waterways Destinations  *********

[Noone]

                                           ***   Noone Hogans,McCoys,Fishweir Trifecta-July 2011  ***



Now the tide grabs us,pulling us away from Hogans creek mouth runway,we swing towards the core.Upon whisk Point" (Shipyards Public Pier) we are enveloped in the smell of coffee.
The placid creek condition gives way to convoluted waves,swirls.
Quickly we arrive at the Hyatt parking lot-the water level too high to duck under and explore,a disappointment for Noone.
With paddles at rest we drift alongside the Landing,as if a Disney ride.Wide eyed onlookers wave.It is early on a Sunday morning.



Although the Creeks and River exhibit some ills the waterways remain a superb recreation source.

  Use,Enjoy,Protect.
                                      ********** Visit Jacksonville's Urban Waterways Destinations  *********

Mike, yesterday I checked out the new kayak launch at Bee St. and Utah next to the old Southside JEA location. It was a low tide. I caught a 25" red out in the river and was looking at Downtown and just thinking how much of a difference it is fighting this red in the open river instead of Downtown under the cavernous dark shadows of another Downtown Urban Waterway Destination.

I was bummed out that I couldn't share that with you on our epoch paddle.

Looking forward to our next Adventure.

And Congratulations to Mayor Alvin Brown for continuing to make Downtown a Destination and not a pass through.

I'm All In.

[Know Growth]

Fast Forward from 2011............Some have asked: What the dang heck is the Trifecta'?
Get in a kayak and paddle Hogans,McCoys and Fishweir Creek-in one simple sitting.

That was EASY!

Cheers!
Knowgrowth/North Miami

                                           ***   Noone Hogans,McCoys,Fishweir Trifecta-July 2011  ***

As events would have it, this year Noone emerged from Metro Jacksonville threads to materialize in person thanks to his gregarious,energetic and inclusive nature.
Although a Hogans Creek paddle was the crux of our visits,we never left dry land during those initial meetings which were dominated by discussions over politics,river advocacy,city happenings.Noone further hooked me with his "pieces of the puzzle" outlook.
Noone had joined the ranks of many leaders and now understood the need to be subtle if not down right illusive with candidate endorsements.
Though I might deem Noone's politics and approach to be less than perfect,the condition of the River System is plenty of evidence that the outlook by others,organizations is also less than effectively ideal.
By now Noone had conducted Downtown Waterway introductory paddle excursions with many,including runoff candidates for my city council district.

I was honored to be among the invitees however inwardly I was not particularly excited about an excursion to yet another beat up place.In my past involvement with regional and statewide conservation matters I had been ushered in to many sad environmental and community scenes.My own present back yard borders on a certifiably impaired waterway.Eventually,one makes a healthy retreat.

Noone was persistent,and frankly the election of Alvin Brown created a new sense of confidence and anticipation with Downtown matters.
Noone spiced the deal by suggesting a trip even more compelling.The paddle trip vision broadened:We would put in at Hogans creek,paddle to McCoys creek and then on to Fishweir creek.
And I get to be the guided for a change!

Like my childhood days in Miami the eve before a waterway adventure,I could barely sleep the night before our Downtown creek run.Guide Noone shows up at the house with vehicle packed full of kayaks.I leave my own kayak behind,but instinctively bring along my own familiar paddle and seat.Adventure!

On the drive to Downtown we decide to pick up some beer and batteries for our cameras and in honor of Alvin Brown we patronize the Downtown Winn Dixie.The first of many "Ah Ha!" moments lodges............I am spending money at an establishment I have driven past countless times on the way to somewhere else.
Before we leave Winn Dixie Noone produces a hand made poster; 'VISIT JACKSONVILLE ! " and has our pictures taken in front of the store.Noone is a walking Chamber of Commerce billboard.Me,a founder of "F.L.A.P.",the ardent anti promotion Florida League Against Progress.The odd couple.

Back in the van and moments later to a park like setting-Washington and Beaver."Ah Ha!".Hogans Creek.
The plan is to fish along the Trifecta route,my first photo of Hogans creek is of Noone's cast net piercing the surface....a perfect circle.The creek is full of fish.Incoming tide,a maritime salt smell and feel.
There is trash everywhere,floating,but having resided at the Southwesterly border of RAP I am near immune to specific trash presence focus or upset.
I explore a sandy foot path meandering through palm trees on the far side of the creek. "Ah Ha!".....I snap a photo,the scene easily mistaken for Talbot Islands State Park.
Noone quickly fills the bait bucket-off to the launch site.

The hand launch site is underneath a bridge overpass behind the Jacksonville Historical Society and Casket Company.
Noone shows me a the remnants of a railroad bed,aged cross ties and granite rock bed clearly visible.Noone is particularly excited about an old timey light pole.Noone is lucky,he is still five years old inside.

These outdoor trips always inject a sense of relaxation,excitement.Noone produces a bag of "Chicken Nuts",a zesty combination of fried chicken,pepper and sweets locally produced by MJ screen name Pearl.Bet 'ya can't have just one handfull!We assemble our gear at the firm,sandy creek shore line underneath the overpass.The lauch site is ideal.The tidal flow readily apparent.
Out comes the "VISIT JACKSONVILLE !" poster,cameras click.
Noone places the precious Winn Dixie Cargo on my assigned kayak.I cinch the tie down straps extra tight.
"Ah Ha!"I can not wait any longer and with solemn announcement,make my first cast to Hogans creek,inland Downtown Jacksonville.The light spinning outfit feels good in my hand,the lure streams to the hoped for placement.Perfect!

Now underway,we work our way upstream.Bird nests in overhanging oaks,undeveloped flood plain,sweet smelling shrubs,buzzing bees.
We reverse course,heading downstream,against the current.The creek twists and turns amidst a decidedly urban viewscape,crisscross overpasses.I note an obscure small side creek mouth,cattail lined creek branch projecting to the west alongside a parking lot,more like a ditch at first glance.I make a note to research area mitigation parcels history.
We come to the horizontal metal bridge assembled for the Super Bowl."Turtle Meat For Sale" is spray painted on the concrete wall below the bridge.Here is the location of the famed Shopping Cart Depth Meter.The water level is unusually high,we can barely see the telltale wheels-with reverence we touch the wheels with our paddles.
The greenery gives way to concrete walls,rip rap.Like magic,as if floating in air through Downtown.
Soon we are abeam of the Maxwell House plant,and then under the low bridge at the mouth of Hogans creek.

Entering the River,butt water level,the view is awesome.Exhilirating.
As anticipated and in fact planned on,there is an incoming tide and a strong one at that,influenced by Northeasterly winds as a result of a tropical storm off Southeast Florida.
We slowly paddle out from the mouth,it is overcast,a heavy rain band off to our left at Exchange Island.
Galncing back to the creek;"Ah Ha!"-so that is where Hogan creek is.I have traveled this section of the river by boat  countless times without knowing of the pin point location of Hogans.

It is apparent that  Hogans creek can also serve as a convenient,spontaneous access point to the River,Exchange Island.
Dabbling there on the River,we talk of how such potential could be developed by individual advocates and promoters even in the face of,and in spite of lack of official City involvement thanks in part to The Web.
We have already begun by making Proclamations,naming landmarks on our own.

Now the tide grabs us,pulling us away from Hogans creek mouth runway,we swing towards the core.Upon whisking past "Noone Point" (Shipyards Public Pier) we are enveloped in the smell of coffee.
The placid creek condition gives way to convoluted waves,swirls.
Quickly we arrive at the Hyatt parking lot-the water level too high to duck under and explore,a disappointment for Noone.
With paddles at rest we drift alongside the Landing,as if a Disney ride.Wide eyed onlookers wave.It is early on a Sunday morning.

We lay up at the railroad bridge and fish the shoreline and bridge structure intently.The railroad bridge span looks ominous when viewed butt water level from it's base,in the back drop of the gray sky.The incoming tide is diverted to a large whirlpool motion.Round an' round.I snap a picture of a train over Noone's head.
There is a glimpse of the tip of the undulating fountain geyser beyond.
Scanning further to the right,South and Southwesterly past the hospital,to I-95 the view broadens,miles to the distant shore.
Continuing the circular scan,now I-95 reaches land,the distant horizon shifts,the RAM docks....the St Joe Building and shoreline hutch that reminds me of a big bullet .....now the YMCA....Tillie Fowler memorial.....the Haskell building,light and bright in the gray day.....following the shoreline closer and closer,almost full circle...the Times Union building,two sets of identical white cars parked above a dark rectangle.The rectangle is the entrance to McCoys creek.

The chrome bumpers pass overhead.We have entered a cave,a glimmer of light at the distant far end.The horizontal ceiling gives way to arched overhead.
Spray painted four letter expletives that any worthy editor would delete are plastered everywhere.
Deep watery echoes resonate with each dip of the paddle.
Interesting-with a strong  incoming flood tide I notice an outflow,likely fresh water,suggesting a sizeable watershed system.I am tempted to taste the water for 'fresh' or 'salt'...... though the City's Tributary Assesement program (thank you COJ,Dana Morton!) has tracked improving water quality I decide against it.

The thought makes me thirsty.Precious cargo?Noone nods affirmative.The sweaty bottles glow in the distant light.
I raise mine high,snap a picture and we proclaim a JUWDZ....Jacksonville Urban Waterway Drinking Zone.
I work through my meager precious cargo ration rather quickly.Indeed,the effect of alcohol is greater on the water.The mind wanders towards familiar rowdy themes.Here,underneath the Florida Times Union building,site of countless column inches....miles!......of Editorial River Advocacy that has streamed overhead dating back to at least the days of FTU writer William Sweisgood.
"Ah Ha!"Is McCoys creek an embarassing secret,a curse,a generational dynamic,the final missing piece of flawed River Advocacy??
We offer a toast to Howard Soloman.
Time to enter the light.

We move upstream,emerge from the tunnel flat on our backs,eyes facing upward....at this section of McCoys there are multiple horizontal beams overhead bracing the shoreline bulkheads.The flood tide leaves little wiggle room.The sky has turned blue.Born Anew.

The overhead lid and following road overpass behind us,the creek turns to the left,around another tall bulkhead to port.
We swing around the corner and pause....the beautiful panorama could be mistaken for upper Black Creek in Jennings Forest.Birds scatter everywhere.
And the trash.Dang,I'm getting used to it.No sense in 'clean up' efforts,our craft could hardly carry out enough to make a difference.After all,this is a future CMOCETZ;Considerable More Official City Effort Trash Zone.
Soon we come to a haunting sight...........an abandoned boat,listing to one side.Noone quickly and correctly identifies the hull to be a Carolina Skiff.We take note and photo the registration; FL 3661 LP
The State Office of Boating and Waterways will be contacted.McCoys is on the radar screen.
"Ah Ha!",there is the Prime Osborne building! So close!Colorful,creative graffiti on the overpass pilings seems so in place,acceptable.This is urbane!WAZ;Waterway Art Zone.

In fact the creek here has many characteristics of area wild land creeks with steep banks on one side,coves,sandbars across the other side.Mature trees including pines,cypress and the obviously intrusive China Berry.

Now to port...a camp!! The term "homeless camp" misleading,this one is complete with tent.
We search the woods intently for signs of life.No doubt reclusive hidden eyes are watching our every move.....
The camps intrigue.This I must see,and photograph for the historical record for these camps,circa 2011 are as real to Jacksonville as the rail beds behind the Historical Society building Noone led me to.
I swerve the kayak in close up to the camp and come alongside the sandy beach,one of Jacksonville's finest waterfront locations.There is a sweet smell.....woman's perfume??
A refrigerator grill is thoughtfully projecting out over a shoreline fire pit.
I imagine the view in the camera viewfinder framed and displayed years from now at the Historical Society.Click,click.
(NOTICE:A couple of days later in discussion with JSO I was informed that the homeless camps can prove dangerous-the inhabitants typically suffer mental disorders,exhibiting swings from recluse to aggression.When Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission officer Robert Brienza entered the creek zone in search of FL 3661 LP he made sure to do so only with concerted back up)
I pull away from the camp,but with each paddle stroke forward the kayak is yanked backwards..........heart sinks,ears prick back,alert mode! I imagine kayak paddle as defensive weapon......look back...."AhHa!"...a willow branch has become stuck on the precious cargo chest.
Eventually we come upon a pipe at water level and turn back.McCoys becomming familiar.

Through the tunnel,towards the light,out to the far horizon scene.
We still have an incoming push tide and thankfully the strong wind is towards the direction we are going.

Up close to the bank the shoreline trash is evident,stunning-a view not typically available from vessels running the center,and perhaps not even from the walk ways.

The Disney ride continues,around to the RAM docks,under I-95 and out to inside the big horizon.
The varied aspects of the river viewscape and experience really settles in.As we round the corner,past Memorial Park,the guided becomes the guide.In the only tone of trepidation I have ever heard in Noone's voice,he asks where in the world is the Ortega Bridge,near the entrance to Fishweir?This is a face of the River new to John.There are long fetch swells that turn the kayaks in to surf boards,rougue waves spill inside.I dabble my feet overboard.Noone's sit on top kayak is much more positive,safer and pleasant than my Necky Looksha sit inside.
Glorious big sky and a true "offshore" feel.Wide open water .Past the Hospital,home after home.No further sign of trepidation,Noone is now far ahead,actually an attentive compliment that I can obviously be left on my own,Noone's kayak as if a tiny rotomolded flotsam on the distant horizon.Later we hug the shore,dodging dock pilings as if kids at play.We are Five again.The wind direction is shifting towards the east.Who else in town is minding such matters?It's a different world on the water.

Finally the Ortega Bridge emerges on the horizon.Closer and closer.We round the corner on in to Fishweir Creek.
"Ah Ha!" morphs to 'aw,shucks' familiarity.Past the recent spate of new docks.The high water has masked the siltation flats.No need to snake through the narrow channel past the Loop.Under and past the Herschel street bridge and Noone spots the exposed siltation sand bars.The view upstream appears rural.The creek narrows,wooded canopy overhead.We could continue on to Rosevelt Blvd.,through the culverts,up to the Hamilton Street woods,site of two Ron Littlepage editorials concerning Creek Trash loading.A third editorial never appeared-Ron quite correctly said only a tax increase could answer the need.The Storm Water Fee has been in place for quite some time since.Fishweir creek restoration has lagged for fifteen years. Too many fits and starts,the joint City/Federal Restoration Project held hostage to the whims of Congress.
"Aw,Shucks",we have had enough Tunnels for the day,turn around and beach at the Southwesterly boundary of RAP.
Closer kinship,understanding of Jacksonville and the River City Urban Waterways that course through our lives.
We all deserve a good paddling.
Thank you Noone and Metro Jacksonville.

Although the Creeks and River exhibit some ills the waterways remain a superb recreation source.

  Use,Enjoy,Protect.
                                      ********** Visit Jacksonville's Urban Waterways Destinations  *********

[Know Growth]

                                           ***   Noone Hogans,McCoys,Fishweir Trifecta-July 2011  ***

As events would have it, this year Noone emerged from Metro Jacksonville threads to materialize in person thanks to his gregarious,energetic and inclusive nature.
Although a Hogans Creek paddle was the crux of our visits,we never left dry land during those initial meetings which were dominated by discussions over politics,river advocacy,city happenings.Noone further hooked me with his "pieces of the puzzle" outlook.
Noone had joined the ranks of many leaders and now understood the need to be subtle if not down right illusive with candidate endorsements.
Though I might deem Noone's politics and approach to be less than perfect,the condition of the River System is plenty of evidence that the outlook by others,organizations is also less than effectively ideal.
By now Noone had conducted Downtown Waterway introductory paddle excursions with many,including runoff candidates for my city council district.

I was honored to be among the invitees however inwardly I was not particularly excited about an excursion to yet another beat up place.In my past involvement with regional and statewide conservation matters I had been ushered in to many sad environmental and community scenes.My own present back yard borders on a certifiably impaired waterway.Eventually,one makes a healthy retreat.

Noone was persistent,and frankly the election of Alvin Brown created a new sense of confidence and anticipation with Downtown matters.
Noone spiced the deal by suggesting a trip even more compelling.The paddle trip vision broadened:We would put in at Hogans creek,paddle to McCoys creek and then on to Fishweir creek.
And I get to be the guided for a change!

Like my childhood days in Miami the eve before a waterway adventure,I could barely sleep the night before our Downtown creek run.Guide Noone shows up at the house with vehicle packed full of kayaks.I leave my own kayak behind,but instinctively bring along my own familiar paddle and seat.Adventure!

On the drive to Downtown we decide to pick up some beer and batteries for our cameras and in honor of Alvin Brown we patronize the Downtown Winn Dixie.The first of many "Ah Ha!" moments lodges............I am spending money at an establishment I have driven past countless times on the way to somewhere else.
Before we leave Winn Dixie Noone produces a hand made poster; 'VISIT JACKSONVILLE ! " and has our pictures taken in front of the store.Noone is a walking Chamber of Commerce billboard.Me,a founder of "F.L.A.P.",the ardent anti promotion Florida League Against Progress.The odd couple.

Back in the van and moments later to a park like setting-Washington and Beaver."Ah Ha!".Hogans Creek.
The plan is to fish along the Trifecta route,my first photo of Hogans creek is of Noone's cast net piercing the surface....a perfect circle.The creek is full of fish.Incoming tide,a maritime salt smell and feel.
There is trash everywhere,floating,but having resided at the Southwesterly border of RAP I am near immune to specific trash presence focus or upset.
I explore a sandy foot path meandering through palm trees on the far side of the creek. "Ah Ha!".....I snap a photo,the scene easily mistaken for Talbot Islands State Park.
Noone quickly fills the bait bucket-off to the launch site.

The hand launch site is underneath a bridge overpass behind the Jacksonville Historical Society and Casket Company.
Noone shows me a the remnants of a railroad bed,aged cross ties and granite rock bed clearly visible.Noone is particularly excited about an old timey light pole.Noone is lucky,he is still five years old inside.

These outdoor trips always inject a sense of relaxation,excitement.Noone produces a bag of "Chicken Nuts",a zesty combination of fried chicken,pepper and sweets locally produced by MJ screen name Pearl.Bet 'ya can't have just one handfull!We assemble our gear at the firm,sandy creek shore line underneath the overpass.The lauch site is ideal.The tidal flow readily apparent.
Out comes the "VISIT JACKSONVILLE !" poster,cameras click.
Noone places the precious Winn Dixie Cargo on my assigned kayak.I cinch the tie down straps extra tight.
"Ah Ha!"I can not wait any longer and with solemn announcement,make my first cast to Hogans creek,inland Downtown Jacksonville.The light spinning outfit feels good in my hand,the lure streams to the hoped for placement.Perfect!

Now underway,we work our way upstream.Bird nests in overhanging oaks,undeveloped flood plain,sweet smelling shrubs,buzzing bees.
We reverse course,heading downstream,against the current.The creek twists and turns amidst a decidedly urban viewscape,crisscross overpasses.I note an obscure small side creek mouth,cattail lined creek branch projecting to the west alongside a parking lot,more like a ditch at first glance.I make a note to research area mitigation parcels history.
We come to the horizontal metal bridge assembled for the Super Bowl."Turtle Meat For Sale" is spray painted on the concrete wall below the bridge.Here is the location of the famed Shopping Cart Depth Meter.The water level is unusually high,we can barely see the telltale wheels-with reverence we touch the wheels with our paddles.
The greenery gives way to concrete walls,rip rap.Like magic,as if floating in air through Downtown.
Soon we are abeam of the Maxwell House plant,and then under the low bridge at the mouth of Hogans creek.

Entering the River,butt water level,the view is awesome.Exhilirating.
As anticipated and in fact planned on,there is an incoming tide and a strong one at that,influenced by Northeasterly winds as a result of a tropical storm off Southeast Florida.
We slowly paddle out from the mouth,it is overcast,a heavy rain band off to our left at Exchange Island.
Galncing back to the creek;"Ah Ha!"-so that is where Hogan creek is.I have traveled this section of the river by boat  countless times without knowing of the pin point location of Hogans.

It is apparent that  Hogans creek can also serve as a convenient,spontaneous access point to the River,Exchange Island.
Dabbling there on the River,we talk of how such potential could be developed by individual advocates and promoters even in the face of,and in spite of lack of official City involvement thanks in part to The Web.
We have already begun by making Proclamations,naming landmarks on our own.

Now the tide grabs us,pulling us away from Hogans creek mouth runway,we swing towards the core.Upon whisking past "Noone Point" (Shipyards Public Pier) we are enveloped in the smell of coffee.
The placid creek condition gives way to convoluted waves,swirls.
Quickly we arrive at the Hyatt parking lot-the water level too high to duck under and explore,a disappointment for Noone.
With paddles at rest we drift alongside the Landing,as if a Disney ride.Wide eyed onlookers wave.It is early on a Sunday morning.

We lay up at the railroad bridge and fish the shoreline and bridge structure intently.The railroad bridge span looks ominous when viewed butt water level from it's base,in the back drop of the gray sky.The incoming tide is diverted to a large whirlpool motion.Round an' round.I snap a picture of a train over Noone's head.
There is a glimpse of the tip of the undulating fountain geyser beyond.
Scanning further to the right,South and Southwesterly past the hospital,to I-95 the view broadens,miles to the distant shore.
Continuing the circular scan,now I-95 reaches land,the distant horizon shifts,the RAM docks....the St Joe Building and shoreline hutch that reminds me of a big bullet .....now the YMCA....Tillie Fowler memorial.....the Haskell building,light and bright in the gray day.....following the shoreline closer and closer,almost full circle...the Times Union building,two sets of identical white cars parked above a dark rectangle.The rectangle is the entrance to McCoys creek.

The chrome bumpers pass overhead.We have entered a cave,a glimmer of light at the distant far end.The horizontal ceiling gives way to arched overhead.
Spray painted four letter expletives that any worthy editor would delete are plastered everywhere.
Deep watery echoes resonate with each dip of the paddle.
Interesting-with a strong  incoming flood tide I notice an outflow,likely fresh water,suggesting a sizeable watershed system.I am tempted to taste the water for 'fresh' or 'salt'...... though the City's Tributary Assesement program (thank you COJ,Dana Morton!) has tracked improving water quality I decide against it.

The thought makes me thirsty.Precious cargo?Noone nods affirmative.The sweaty bottles glow in the distant light.
I raise mine high,snap a picture and we proclaim a JUWDZ....Jacksonville Urban Waterway Drinking Zone.
I work through my meager precious cargo ration rather quickly.Indeed,the effect of alcohol is greater on the water.The mind wanders towards familiar rowdy themes.Here,underneath the Florida Times Union building,site of countless column inches....miles!......of Editorial River Advocacy that has streamed overhead dating back to at least the days of FTU writer William Sweisgood.
"Ah Ha!"Is McCoys creek an embarassing secret,a curse,a generational dynamic,the final missing piece of flawed River Advocacy??
We offer a toast to Howard Soloman.
Time to enter the light.

We move upstream,emerge from the tunnel flat on our backs,eyes facing upward....at this section of McCoys there are multiple horizontal beams overhead bracing the shoreline bulkheads.The flood tide leaves little wiggle room.The sky has turned blue.Born Anew.

The overhead lid and following road overpass behind us,the creek turns to the left,around another tall bulkhead to port.
We swing around the corner and pause....the beautiful panorama could be mistaken for upper Black Creek in Jennings Forest.Birds scatter everywhere.
And the trash.Dang,I'm getting used to it.No sense in 'clean up' efforts,our craft could hardly carry out enough to make a difference.After all,this is a future CMOCETZ;Considerable More Official City Effort Trash Zone.
Soon we come to a haunting sight...........an abandoned boat,listing to one side.Noone quickly and correctly identifies the hull to be a Carolina Skiff.We take note and photo the registration; FL 3661 LP
The State Office of Boating and Waterways will be contacted.McCoys is on the radar screen.
"Ah Ha!",there is the Prime Osborne building! So close!Colorful,creative graffiti on the overpass pilings seems so in place,acceptable.This is urbane!WAZ;Waterway Art Zone.

In fact the creek here has many characteristics of area wild land creeks with steep banks on one side,coves,sandbars across the other side.Mature trees including pines,cypress and the obviously intrusive China Berry.

Now to port...a camp!! The term "homeless camp" misleading,this one is complete with tent.
We search the woods intently for signs of life.No doubt reclusive hidden eyes are watching our every move.....
The camps intrigue.This I must see,and photograph for the historical record for these camps,circa 2011 are as real to Jacksonville as the rail beds behind the Historical Society building Noone led me to.
I swerve the kayak in close up to the camp and come alongside the sandy beach,one of Jacksonville's finest waterfront locations.There is a sweet smell.....woman's perfume??
A refrigerator grill is thoughtfully projecting out over a shoreline fire pit.
I imagine the view in the camera viewfinder framed and displayed years from now at the Historical Society.Click,click.
(NOTICE:A couple of days later in discussion with JSO I was informed that the homeless camps can prove dangerous-the inhabitants typically suffer mental disorders,exhibiting swings from recluse to aggression.When Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission officer Robert Brienza entered the creek zone in search of FL 3661 LP he made sure to do so only with concerted back up)
I pull away from the camp,but with each paddle stroke forward the kayak is yanked backwards..........heart sinks,ears prick back,alert mode! I imagine kayak paddle as defensive weapon......look back...."AhHa!"...a willow branch has become stuck on the precious cargo chest.
Eventually we come upon a pipe at water level and turn back.McCoys becomming familiar.

Through the tunnel,towards the light,out to the far horizon scene.
We still have an incoming push tide and thankfully the strong wind is towards the direction we are going.

Up close to the bank the shoreline trash is evident,stunning-a view not typically available from vessels running the center,and perhaps not even from the walk ways.

The Disney ride continues,around to the RAM docks,under I-95 and out to inside the big horizon.
The varied aspects of the river viewscape and experience really settles in.As we round the corner,past Memorial Park,the guided becomes the guide.In the only tone of trepidation I have ever heard in Noone's voice,he asks where in the world is the Ortega Bridge,near the entrance to Fishweir?This is a face of the River new to John.There are long fetch swells that turn the kayaks in to surf boards,rougue waves spill inside.I dabble my feet overboard.Noone's sit on top kayak is much more positive,safer and pleasant than my Necky Looksha sit inside.
Glorious big sky and a true "offshore" feel.Wide open water .Past the Hospital,home after home.No further sign of trepidation,Noone is now far ahead,actually an attentive compliment that I can obviously be left on my own,Noone's kayak as if a tiny rotomolded flotsam on the distant horizon.Later we hug the shore,dodging dock pilings as if kids at play.We are Five again.The wind direction is shifting towards the east.Who else in town is minding such matters?It's a different world on the water.

Finally the Ortega Bridge emerges on the horizon.Closer and closer.We round the corner on in to Fishweir Creek.
"Ah Ha!" morphs to 'aw,shucks' familiarity.Past the recent spate of new docks.The high water has masked the siltation flats.No need to snake through the narrow channel past the Loop.Under and past the Herschel street bridge and Noone spots the exposed siltation sand bars.The view upstream appears rural.The creek narrows,wooded canopy overhead.We could continue on to Rosevelt Blvd.,through the culverts,up to the Hamilton Street woods,site of two Ron Littlepage editorials concerning Creek Trash loading.A third editorial never appeared-Ron quite correctly said only a tax increase could answer the need.The Storm Water Fee has been in place for quite some time since.Fishweir creek restoration has lagged for fifteen years. Too many fits and starts,the joint City/Federal Restoration Project held hostage to the whims of Congress.
"Aw,Shucks",we have had enough Tunnels for the day,turn around and beach at the Southwesterly boundary of RAP.
Closer kinship,understanding of Jacksonville and the River City Urban Waterways that course through our lives.
We all deserve a good paddling.
Thank you Noone and Metro Jacksonville.

Although the Creeks and River exhibit some ills the waterways remain a superb recreation source.

  Use,Enjoy,Protect.
                                      ********** Visit Jacksonville's Urban Waterways Destinations  *********

DUWA     ( North Miami & Know Growth are one and the same;Mike Webster)

[Overstreet]

Back between Fishweir and SVMC is Willow Branch. There was a dead fall over the creek on the other side of the bridge so you were limited on distance. But the entrance in a wide canal like area with venice like steps to boat landings was kind of interesting. I'm sure it is throw back to an earlier time and use.

[camarocane]

Was that the old Jacksonville (Florida) Yacht Club location?

[Know Growth]

Back between Fishweir and SVMC is Willow Branch. There was a dead fall over the creek on the other side of the bridge so you were limited on distance. But the entrance in a wide canal like area with venice like steps to boat landings was kind of interesting. I'm sure it is throw back to an earlier time and use.

ha

Thank you for the review,observation.
Imagine if Riverside area had fallen under Broward County canal cut that occurred decades later- a Jacksonville Venice, perhaps even superior to what was carved out later in South Florida.