White water rafting now available through outdoor recreation Published July 15, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Wesley Carter 30th Space Wing Public Affairs VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Have you ever wanted to rush through white water rapids as you tumble down a river? Now you can. The outdoor recreation center here is offering Airmen a chance to go rafting down the Kern River. For $75 Airmen will be transported, fully equipped with safety gear and necessities to go down the river, fed sandwiches from the Commissary, and provided with a tour guide that will help with learning how to handle the raft in the river's rough spots. "We spend time teaching each participant movements they will make when on the water, aAs well as what to do if the boat capsizes," said Capt. James Rose, the 30th Civil Engineer Squadron deputy of the engineer flight. The guides are very well trained and take no chances when out in the water. Participants can expect to spend up to six hours rafting. "There can be times when the guides can be a little abrasive," Captain Rose said. "However, it is only to keep the trip safe." Not only does every boat have an experienced guide in it, there is also a guide in an oar powered boat that runs safety during the trip. "The power of the oars allows the boat to move through the water at will and pick up anyone who has involuntarily left their boat," Captain Rose said. The guides will take rafters of all experience levels down the river. "It is an intermediate course," said Captain Rose. "However with the guides we are confident in taking beginners through expert down the river." The rafting season last from May through September; the team of guides has had no accidents this season. If you are interested in taking part in a rafting adventure, contact Outdoor Recreation at 606-5908