FFA Today – November 26, 2008

The November 26 episode of FFA Today features "bug careers," a story highlighting ag youth scholarship winners and more!

Retiring Address: Brady Revels – 2008 National FFA Convention

See Brady Revels' retiring address "Who Cares" from the seventh session of the 2008 National FFA Convention.

Five Tips For Getting Started With Kayaking

Kayaking is a great sport that combines physical activity with the beauty and tranquility of nature.

If you would like to get started with this sport, there are a few things you need to know. As with any form of outdoor recreation, learning the basics before you begin will make your kayaking adventure much more enjoyable.

Tip 1 - Choose the Right Kayak

Choosing the right kayak is the first step on your adventure. There are many different types out there. The boat that is right for you will depend on your goals as a kayak enthusiast.

First, what type of water will you be using your boat on? Calm water and fast-moving water require different boats. Are you going to paddle by yourself, or will you want someone else with you? How often do you anticipate using your boat? The more often you use it, the more durable you will want the kayak to be.

You can always rent kayaks first to get the feel for the different types that are available.

Once you have chosen the right boat, carefully time your purchase. Buying in the off-season will help you get an affordable price.

You can also shop online or buy your boat through the classifieds. Before shopping, however, make sure you know what you want. Visit a few showrooms to get an idea of what is available.

Tip 2 - Getting the Right Gear

Other than the boat itself, what do you need to start kayaking?

One of the most important pieces of safety equipment that every person in a kayak needs is a PFD, or Personal Flotation Device. These are high-tech life vests that will keep you above water if the boat should capsize.

Kayaking requires a Type II or Type V PFD. These are lightweight, fairly easy to put on, and quite fashionable, not like the life vests you are probably picturing.

Typically, the more you pay for a PFD the more comfortable it will be. The more expensive models have softer foam and can be adjusted easier than the cheaper options. If you need to save money, consider buying new.

The other piece of equipment you will need is a kayak paddle. If you can, try out a variety of paddle types. If you do not have this luxury, you will probably be happy with an aluminum shaft adjustable paddle with a flat blade that has blunt or tapered ends as you are beginning your kayaking adventure.

After you have learned more about the sport you may want to upgrade your paddle, but this paddle will give you the flexibility you need to paddle in a variety of situations.

Tip 3 - Getting in and out of the Kayak

Now that you have a kayak and your basic gear, you are ready to begin. You take your boat to the river, don your PFD, and suddenly realize you have no idea how to get into the kayak. Here is what you need to know.

If you are in shallow water, dip your paddle into the water and brace it against the side of the kayak to keep it steady. You can also use the dock edge to steady the boat if you are in deep water.

Once the boat is steady, sit on the edge of the dock with your legs hanging over the side. Line your feet up evenly with your entry point, and drop the line into the cockpit. Swing one foot and then the other into the cockpit, crouch down, and sit.

Grab your paddle, adjust your line so it is out of the way, and you are ready to go.

Getting out of the kayak is basically the same, only backwards. Be sure to keep a good hand on your paddle so that you do not lose it.

Tip 4 - Paddle Correctly

Paddling does involve exercise, but it should not be exhausting. Avoid using a motion that is similar to digging into the sand. Instead, lean back in your seat and relax. This not only helps you paddle more efficiently, but it also keeps the boat stable.

Hold the paddle in both hands using an over-handed hold. Your thumbs should be underneath the bar. Let your torso make most of the movements. Pull with the arm that is making the downward stroke and push the shaft away with the arm that is making the upward stroke.

This sounds complicated, but you will get the rhythm as you practice.

Tip 5 - Be Prepared

There are some things that you need to have ready in order to be safe on the water.

Make sure that you have an audible safety signal device clipped to your PFD. Also, be sure that you have a spare paddle, especially if your kayaking trip will be long. Paddles can get lost in deep water, so having a spare is always a good idea. This can be a collapsible paddle if you need to save room.

Before you leave, check the weather and water conditions, not just in your current location, but also at your destination. If a storm is approaching, postpone your trip. This is essential if you are a beginner, because a sudden storm could mean disaster.

A repair kit and first aid kit are also important. Be sure that your repair kit includes some duct tape. Your first aid kit must be contained in an airtight, waterproof container.

Finally, pack a flashlight, even if you do not intend to be on the water at night. If you get stranded after dark, a flashlight will keep you safe and help you find your way to shore.

With these tips, you should be as prepared as possible to start kayaking. Remember to go with experienced kayak enthusiasts the first few times you go out, as they can help you with the problems you will face as you learn this exciting sport.

About the Author

Jay Gaulard writes for a wide selection of websites on various topics. He is a veteran of the internet and has come to be respected in his many areas of expertise. This article was written on behalf of MyBoatMarket, a popular boating parts and accessories website.

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Convention Theme Song Video – 2008 National FFA Convention

Check out the video for the 2008 Convention Theme Song, "Step Up Stand Out".

Serious About The Best Vegatables Do Organic Gardening!

If you think you are very serious about organic gardening, maybe you feel it is time to start getting educated on the subject that used to be know and referred to as- all muck and mystery- thanks to the work of many pioneers and early organic gardeners, there is an increasing understanding of the science, as well as common sense and sustainability supporting organic methods.

It is very important that you keep yourself updated with how thing are being done on a regular basis. This thing called organic gardening is more than just growing fruits and vegetables, it is also a form of leaving the ground and area in better condition than when you started.

Organic gardening in its specificity reinforces the strongest binds with Mother Nature, as it is a true to life way to grow vegetables and fruits, using only the materials provided by nature.

Organic gardening is much simpler than most people think. This type gardening is much more a greater part of life and ethos. It is not simply about growing wholesome fruit and vegetables. This type gardening differs from "conventional" gardening mainly in the areas of fertilization and pest control.

Gardening, which includes discussions on permaculture, soil and composting, vermin composting, grubs, boric acid, organic soil fungicides, Bermuda grass, scarlet runner beans, nematodes. If your goal in going organic in terms of gardening is to help nature, then you are on the right track. For sure, nature itself will find ways to help you out and for you to be able see solutions to your problems just around the corner.

This is how generous nature is. And this is also the basic idea of the organic process of gardening. It is to give back to nature what nature has bestowed you with. In gardening, you will have to veer away from synthetic materials and use only what your are given.

To discover what you are given by nature, just take a look around you, what do you see, leaves branches, twigs, and all kinds of things from nature. These are the things you can use for your garden fertilizers and plant foods.

So whether you want to try growing your own organic food or you just want a naturally healthy yard or both, we hope that this simple guide will help show you the way. When first using the word "organic" to describe the natural method of gardening and farming. Those who seek to combine conventional and organic procedures, the field of opportunity for choice in organic gardening practice is fertile indeed.

So for you, how to grow your own vegetables, fruits and flowers by natural methods. You also need to discover the encyclopedia of natural insect disease control, as well as a comprehensive guide to protecting plants--vegetables, fruit, flowers, trees, and lawns--without toxic chemicals. To accomplish all of the above you really need to get deeply involved into this whole area of gardening and the methods that most people are using.

One of the first things you will need to get started with is a good method of composting. If you have a good plot that is well drained, then the most important thing you need to do and the most time consuming. Get a good compost pile started. Once this is in operation and not before, you are then ready to start the garden. Buy the seeds from you hardware or farmer store. And you are ready to start. Go at it and have Fun.

About the Author

Jim Woodall does internet mktg, you can visit his website Organic Gardening, view the video and news feeds will help you http://jimwoodl.com/organic-gardening be sure to get your 3 free ebooks on mktg at : http://freegiveaways.jwoodl.com/index.html

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The Art of Gardening & Creating Heaven At Your Doorstep

Gardening (believe it or not) is one of the best hobbies which can take complete care of your mind and body. It is a thoughtful amalgamation of science and art to convert a simple piece of land into a heavenly creation. Like a huge canvas, etched and sprayed with multiple colors, your garden can also be a showstopper. Scientific and technical know how for the methods of cultivation as well as an artistic and harmonious selection of plants according to the geographical specificity are the notable factors for a successful gardening.

The habit of gardening sprouted in human being's mind since long, especially after World War II. Due to the increasing stress and busy life of the present century, people are taking refuge to this plant growing art in search of peace and tranquility.

In a garden, plants are grown away from their natural environment. Hence you have to keep their physiological needs in mind. Though basically the art of gardening is same all over the world, but it surely is the plant type along with its wide adaptability to the local environment that matters.

Be it ornamental or for kitchen supply, armed with your instinct, energy, enthusiasm and artistic genius, you can try your best to craft out and display an attractive piece of art at your doorstep. Your picturesque garden with a riot of colors and myriad hues and shades will always be treasured by you and appreciated by the spectators. Your satisfaction will know no bound while smelling a bunch of beautiful home-grown roses or a basket full of fresh vegetables. The mellowing fragrance and aroma felt from a distance will also prove your attention and sincere look after of these precious possessions.

Before creating a successful and state-of-art garden, work out on a few fine points. Such as:

1.Check the soil quality (loamy, sandy, clayey or humusy) and its pH level.
2.Determine the East, West, North and South of your gardening area to assess the light and wind intensity.
3.Find the ground-slope. It will help in water management.
4.Chalk out your plan of gardening. Include a few interesting themes, Rock-Garden, Water Garden, Shade Garden, Fountains and Water-falls, Children's play-corner, lounging or sunbathing area, etc.
5.Select plants keeping the soil type and the kind of garden you want to create in mind. Will it be flower, vegetable, herb, or shrub?
6.Think of necessary soil modifications for growth improvement.
7.Make a color-scheme for flower garden. Do not overlook the background and the fence and put stress on easy entrance and exit points.
8.Select the spots for particular types of plants. Creepers need some extra attention.
9.Take preventive measures to resist the herbivores/rodents/birds etc., without hurting them.
10.Consider using organic manure, if possible. House wastes can make excellent composts.
11.Keep a diary and calendar handy. List, buy, and maintain your gardening tools properly.
12.DO CONSIDER the pathways which can allow you and your visitors to enjoy the garden without spoiling the plants.

Now you can start your gardening venture and the first must do is digging the soil (well burn some extra calorie)! You can rent some helping hands too. During the autumn fall, level the ground and start manuring (organic/inorganic). Keep your watering sprinklers in excellent working condition.

By spring you are ready with seeds and seedlings. Go forward confidently to create a heavenly garden at your doorstep!!

About the Author

Simon owns the online garden center Water Shadow specialising in garden ornaments, statues, gazing globes and stainless steel gazing globes.

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All About Pontoon Boats

Lots of boaters these days prefer a pontoon boat over a normal ski/fishing boat. So if you are searching for some information on pontoon boats and what they are, then you have came to the right article. See pontoon boats come in many sizes, and a few different varieties.

One type of pontoon boat is the inflatable pontoon boat, which are mostly used for river fishing and in some cases can be used for river rapids. The inflatable pontoon boat usually holds about 2-3 people, they are really like a decked out canoe, except most of them have motors powering them, so you can have a whole lot of fun with them. They are very popular among fishermen, they are small and fit into tight places in rivers and streams that you may not be able to reach in a normal size boat.

Inflatable pontoon boats can range in price from 800 dollars and up, depending on whether you are looking to buy new or used inflatable pontoon boat.

The next design I am going to go over are the motorized deck pontoons, these are similar to house boats in a way, they have a level deck, with 2 to 3 cylinder shaped pontoons attached to the deck, causing the boat to float. The pontoons are made out of aluminum in most cases, which is very light and will avoid rusting.

There are usually rails all around the boat up to about two to three feet from the bow. Deck pontoon boats can range in size from 16-28 foot in length. Pontoon boats can be could for a family vacation out on the water, since their flat shaped deck allows more room for small crowds to get around comfortably compared to other types of motorized boats.

Pontoon boats can also be made into a great boat for fishing, you can invite your pals out to fish, drink, party, sunbathe, anything your mind could imagine. You can also find pontoon boats that are made for speed to if you would like to engage in some water skiing, or any other water sport you could think of. The faster pontoon boats made for speed normally have big engines, about 220 horse power or more, and if you really want to go fast, you might want to look into the boats that have three pontoons, they are a bit more expensive but you have to pay extra to go fast.

The degree of customization you can do to a pontoon boat is limitless, because of the flat design there are so many things you could do. The majority of pontoon boats have bimini tops that can be raised up or down, some have built in tops, or sun roofs, so that you can jump or dive off of them, and some might even come with a slide attached to the sun roof.

Bottom line is that pontoon boats are great for the family, and are great for friends. The only main downside is, that they are not designed to go out into the ocean at all, so you will not be doing any deep sea fishing in a pontoon boat. There bow is very close to the water, and it is not going to take a big wave to crash over the deck, which could be very dangerous, so if you are into deep sea fishing, then a pontoon boat is not for you.

About the Author

David Spates has been into boating his whole life and enjoys writing and working on boats. If you are looking into purchasing a pontoon boat then please stop by his site for some great deals. Used Pontoon Boats For Sale

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The Oceans’ Wave Power

For more than 200 years inventors worldwide have filed patents for wave-power technology of a dazzling variety of designs-bobbing objects ("ducks"), buoys, articulated rafts, floating bags, overspills, and many others. There has been no shortage of ideas. Many of these ideas are in fact technically feasible, so it seems a shame that this renewable energy resource has not been much used. The main challenge is building a system that is economically attractive when so many other forms of energy production (nuclear, fossil fuels) receive subsidies and already have infrastructure in place. There are some wave power systems in place around the globe: the Faroe Islands; Islay, Scotland; Oahu, Hawaii (providing power for the U.S. Marine Corps. base there); Santo, Spain; Portugal; and even the world's first commercial "wave farm" in England.

The World Energy Council has estimated that wave power could produce as much energy in a year as 2,000 oil, gas, coal and nuclear power plants' twice the amount of electricity produced worldwide-by generating as much as 2 terawatts (that's 1 trillion watts).

Not every place is a candidate for wave power generation. Prime locations identified are Scotland, northern Canada, southern Africa, and the Atlantic Northeast and Pacific Northwest of the United States. Experts have estimated that wave-power systems in the Pacific Northwest alone could generate up to 70 kW per meter of coastline.

Typical Designs
Wave-power systems can be located onshore or offshore, and come in a surprising range of designs. There are currently four basic "capture" methods: point absorbers (largely vertical, with a relatively small footprint on the surface); attenuators (horizontal footprint, arranged parallel to the waves to undulate with the flow); terminators (perpendicular to the waves); and overtopping (perpendicular to the waves, which break over the system). There are different power take-off systems including hydraulic ram (water hammer pumps water above the starting point); elastomeric hose pump (peristaltic, like your intestinal tract), pump-to-shore, hydroelectric turbine, air turbine, and linear electrical generator. Here are some systems already in operation, or close to it:

OFFSHORE: POINT ABSORBER SYSTEMS
1.The Salter "Duck"-In 1970 Stephen Salter ("the father of wave power"), a professor at the University of Edinburgh, designed a wave-power device that could both stop 90 percent of the wave motion and convert 90 percent of that into electricity, a standard that all other designed continue to be measured against. Ironically, the Duck itself never went into use. During the 1990s, a project based on the Duck and dubbed the OSPREY (Ocean Swell Powered Renewable Energy), commenced in the Clyde Estuary of the Scottish coast. Capable of generating 1 mW of power, the OSPREY was on its way to becoming an unqualified success until Hurricane Felix came along and sunk it (at great expense in terms of both money and confidence).
2.The AquaBuOY wave energy device-AquaBuOYs (Finivera Renewables) really do look like navigational buoys, and this is no coincidence. Obviously, maximum output from a wave-power device should be during those times when the waves are at their highest, but if the technology can't withstand rough seas (as with the OSPREY, above), they aren't much good. Operating on the premise that since navigational buoys can survive for decades in all sorts of conditions, the AquaBuOYs were designed to ride the waves for an estimated 100 years. The vertical wave action drives a two-stroke hose pump that directs pressurized seawater into a turbine connected to a generator; the resulting power is sent via an underwater transmission line. While at least four projects are in the permitting process (including one in Makah Bay, WA), as of this writing 3.PowerBuoy "Like the AquaBuOY above, the PowerBuoy resembles a navigational buoy, although one with long cylinder extending far below that houses the mechanics of the system. These PowerBuoys (Ocean Power Technologies) are placed from one to five miles offshore in 100 to 200 feet of water, and can be ganged together to form a "wave-power farm" such as the one to be installed off the coast of Santo, Spain. That 1.39MW station will have one 40kW and nine 150kW PowerBuoys .

OFFSHORE: ATTENUATOR SYSTEMS
1.Pelamis - Ocean Power Delivery, Ltd., developed world's first commercial offshore wave-power facility using its Pelamis Wave Energy Converter, a string of steel cyclinders hinged to articulate. It lies half-submerged, like a 150-meter-long, bright red sea snake (pelamis is the genus for the sea snake), more or less facing into the waves. The cylinders contain hydraulic pumps activated by the wave action; the electricity comes as high-pressure oil gets pumped into generators. The first phase of the wave farm, located 5 km off the coast of Portugal, comprises three 750kW Pelamis "snakes" that combined to generate 2.25 MW; another 28 are expected to be added, bringing the total power generated to 22.5 MW'enough to provide electricity for more than 15,000 homes.
OFFSHORE: TERMINATOR SYSTEMS
1.Nearshore OWC-This is an offshore version of the Limpet, described below.
OFFSHORE: OVERTOPPING SYSTEMS
1.Wave Dragon-Overtopping systems work very much like hydroelectric dams, using the potential energy of water stored at an elevation higher than the turbines it drives. The Wave Dragon overtopping system funnels the waves into its own reservoir to create a head; the water is then released through channels that contain turbines. The Wave Dragon is moored 25 to 40 meters offshore in deep water, somewhat like a floating beach.

ONSHORE: OSCILLATING WATER COLUMN:
1.Limpet (Land Installed Marine Powered Energy Transformer)- This an oscillating water column (OWC) system to convert the waves' kinetic energy to electrical power. Picture a box with the open end submerged but slightly tilted toward the incoming waves, with air trapped inside the box. Now imagine there is a narrow outlet for this air, and inside this tube is a turbine. As the waves raise the level of the water inside the box, the air rushing in and out of the tube powers the turbine. A Limpet system (WaveGen) in Islay, Scotland, uses an inclined oscillating water column (OWC) system optimized for the area's anverage annial wave intensity, and feeds a pair of 250kW generators. The Limpet power station in the Faroes is very similar. WaveGen also designs a near-shore oscillating water-column system.

There are many companies designing wave-power systems using these and other designs (such as the tapered channel system, an onshore system, and the pedulor system, an offshore device), and new ones seem to come along frequently as more countries come to recognize the potential of wave power.

Wave Power Advantages
1.Wave energy is an abundant and renewable resource.
2.Even though not every country has coastline, the combined potential output of wave-power generation would meet all the electricity needs of the world.
3.Although the equipment represents a substantial investment, the "fuel" is free and not confined by geopolitical boundaries.
4.The effect on the environment is deemed to be minimal.

Wave Power Disadvantages
1.These are most effective near coastlines, of which there is a finite supply.
2.Large scale systems are still in the early stages.

About the Author

Take charge of your energy use! Free ebooks that show you how! Visit the best Alternative Energy Source. Click over to Alternative Energy HQ to get your free ebooks and terrific resources on Alt Energy

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Zilker Park is an Austin Gem

Zilker Metropolitan Park is perhaps the brightest jewel in Austin's golden crown of parks and other outdoor venues. It is 351 acres of endless amusements for all ages and interests. There is something for every season of the year, from the Trail of Lights at Christmas to a dip in the cool waters of the spring-fed pool on a steamy summer day.

It can be hard to pick a spot to begin exploring, but Barton Springs Pool is probably the best known attraction in the park. The three-acre pool is an average sixty-eight degrees year around. The grassy hills sloping down to the pool's edge offer shady spots to put down a blanket for a day of swimming and picnicking with family and friends.

The underground spring that feeds the Barton Springs Pool is part of Barton Creek, which winds its way to join Lady Bird Lake. The gazebo at Lou Neff Point, where Barton Creek flows into Lady Bird Lake, is a great place to sit and feed the ducks while getting a view of the interesting architecture in downtown Austin. Enjoying the tranquil waters of the lake that flows across the northeast edge of Zilker Park, it is fun to watch people row by in the kayaks and canoes available for rent.

The Beverly Sheffield Education Center is a popular stop for school field trips. It offers the Splash exhibit, which demonstrates how the Edwards Aquifer, an important water source for the Austin area, was formed. The educators at the center also give students the nitty gritty details about bugs and plants. Any given weekday will find youngsters roaming Barton Creek looking for insects, small fish and minnows among the pools of algae and mud. With long nets in hand, they can furrow out creatures hiding in the hillsides around Zilker Park.

Another popular place in Zilker Park for field trips is the Austin Nature and Science Center. Located on the west side of the park, this attraction is dedicated to offering exhibits, educational programs and recreational fun exploring the natural world. There are a variety of live animals native to Texas on exhibit, like Martha the coyote and Gandolf the owl. Most of these cute creatures have found a home at the Nature Center after being rescued from well-meaning people who tried to make them into pets. Along with viewing the animals, children can dig for bones in the Dino Pit and use scientists' tools in the Naturalist Workshop.

For the plant lovers, there is the quiet beauty of the Zilker Botanical Gardens and the Zilker Nature Preserve. A place can be found for quiet meditation or a quick sketch among the Hartman Prehistoric Garden, the Taniguchi Oriental Gardens and the Mabel Davis Rose Garden. The preserve offers sanctuary for native plants and animals.

Located in the heart of the park are the large wooden playscape and the Zilker Zephyr miniature train. Young and old will get a kick out of the drums and giant xylophone that are part of the playscape. The 25 minute train ride is a great way to see the park and wave at the walkers and runners along the trail as the Zilker Zephyr travels the water's edge. There is also a snack bar and large picnic pavilion.

The list of park attractions goes on and on, including the Zilker Hillside Theater and the Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum. Whether it's flying a kite, playing a game of soccer on one of the 12 sport fields, or a friendly game of disc golf, there is an almost endless array of things for Austinites of any age to enjoy at Zilker Park.

About the Author

Escapeso realty is a small company in Austin Texas. They provide advice and assitance to people looking to invest in Austin real estate. Their website provides a search of the Austin MLS along with information on mortgage interest rates.

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Water Purifier for Boating Safety

Of course you want to be safe on your boat, so you've got rope, life vests, emergency flares, a GPS. But did you think about a water purifier? Humans get dehydrated in a matter of hours. Dehydration can cause weakness, dizziness and disorientation. In a boating emergency these symptoms can be dangerous. Of course, severe dehydration can be life threatening by itself. A person will die in three days, on average, without water.

If you are planning a long boat voyage, you may want a water purifier so that you don't have to carry as much drinkable water. This is especially true if you are traveling with a large party.

If you are boating in fresh water, the water most probably contains the pathogens Giardia and Cryptosporidium, which can cause severe gastro-intestinal illness. If you are an ocean boater, sea water must have the salt removed before it is safe to drink.

Purifying Fresh Water

Water purifiers for fresh water can be found in camping stores, sporting goods shops, and boating supply stores. They are lightweight and relatively inexpensive.

A portable, pump filtration system will remove bacteria from your drinking water. There are pump filters that can be used for fresh, brackish, or salt water. Most water filters use a ceramic or polymer filter, along with a charcoal filter and sometimes a reverse osmosis filter, to remove the microscopic bacteria from water. These systems can be pricey, and it is worthwhile to get the most expensive one you can afford, because it is likely to work better and have more features.

Boiling is the best method of cleaning your drinking water. Boiling will kill all the pathogens in water, provided you boil the water at 212 degrees F for at least thirty minutes. The downside of boiling water is that many pleasure boats don't have a heat source or the large kettle necessary for this purification technique.

The old standby for making emergency drinking water is water purification tablets. These are usually iodine tablets, which can leave the water with a funny taste. But they are cheap and lightweight. There are improvements to the standard tablet which can improve the flavor. There are also chlorine tablets. Water purifying tablets usually take half an hour to four hours to kill the bacteria, but no special equipment is needed.

A new, high-tech solution for water purification is an ultra violet (UV) penlight. This battery operated gizmo uses UV light to kill microbes in about two minutes per liter. Patents are pending, but the UV penlight is getting good reviews. It is expensive, but cheaper than a filter system, and take into consideration that the batteries must be recharged periodically.

Salt Water Desalination

Salt water is not drinkable, and if you try drinking sea water in an emergency you will get very sick. Desalination means taking the salt out and leaving just the water, which you can drink. A portable desalination system is quite expensive, with the smaller units costing more. There are small desalination plants that can be installed on your boat if it is large enough.

A reverse osmosis pump is the best choice for emergency salt water purification. The water must be forced through the filter, which requires you to provide some force for pumping. There are battery operated units and hand operated units. The hand pumped reverse osmosis filters require about an hour of pumping to provide a gallon of drinkable water, but they are lighter weight and no consideration needs to be given to batteries or electrical sources.

If you have a way to boil water, you can buy or make a desalinating still. Fill a kettle that has a tight lid with sea water. Connect a coiled copper tube to the lid, and boil the seawater. The steam (condensation) will drip out of the copper tube as clean water to be collected in another container.

You should add one of these methods of water purification to your emergency gear for any boating trip. Water purifiers are light and affordable. It's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

About the Author

Steve Dolan is an avid outdoorsman and has owned several boats. Share his insights at Boats and Boating Supplies and check out more about boats at Luxury Boats and Yachts.

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