BY COLLETTE CAPRARA

FOR THE FREE LANCE-STAR

As the lazy, hazy days of summer approach, the river beckons as a wonderful site for relaxation, refreshment and recreation, right in our own backyard.

This month, the Friends of the Rappahannock offers two float trips that will present highlights of the beauty and history of the river--as well as important guidelines for enjoying this natural treasure safely and responsibly.

This Saturday, river guide Carol Brooks will host the annual Family River Safety and Tubing Trip.

"I'll be talking about how to 'read' the river, what to do if you get in trouble on the river, and how to avoid trouble in the first place," said Brooks. "My main focus is to make people aware of certain characteristics of the river so they can enjoy it safely."

Clues as to whether the river is safe to enter can be found in its color and clarity, speed of movement and presence of debris.

And, of course, the presence of trees standing in the water is a clear indication that the river is high. Should a canoe flip a paddler into the river, safety measures include floating horizontally with feet downstream and employing techniques to avoid or surmount "strainers" such as branches in the river that let the water pass but trap solid objects.

The day's activity will begin with a safety presentation at the FOR headquarters, including guidance on properly fitting a life vest, and a demonstration of the effect of water temperature on a person's agility.

From there, participants will go upriver to launch a leisurely tube float for the afternoon.

"I've found FOR trips to be an excellent way to get experience on the river," said Brooks. "If you don't know how to paddle, the staff will teach you how. And you not only experience the pleasures of canoeing or tubing but also gain new information."

Next Saturday, Fredericksburg's river steward, Lee Sillitoe, will guide a float and hike through a section of the city's riparian land holdings that are part of more than 4,000 acres bordering the river. That area altogether makes a conservation easement running more than 30 miles upstream.

"This land will forever be a nature preserve," said Sillitoe. "It will never be built on or subdivided, and it will be enjoyed for generations to come."