Since 1991, RiversWest Small Craft Center has been promoting the use of sustainable, beautiful boats built to operate on the human scale. For some of our members, that means restoring historically correct wooden boats. For others, it is a chance to design and build with the support and input of a like-minded group. Many enjoy the camaraderie of “messing about” on the water. We all benefit from the chance to learn from one another. We are often inspired to get our hands busy building, paddling, rowing, motoring or sailing small craft.
To do this, we maintain a shop with some building bays available for members, and woodworking tools available for use. We get together informally every couple of weeks to find out what other members are up to. And throughout the year we sponsor classes, conduct a boat show, and work on our connection to the larger boating community. We have a library with books and journals about boat building, boating in general, and many sets of plans. Also, many of our members enjoy the chance to pass on the oral tradition of building and using small craft.