WATERSPORTS -- With ample mountain snowpacks hinting at a great rafting and paddling season ahead, the Spokane Canoe & Kayak Club is tapping a top rafting expert and Eastern Washington University recreation professor for a primer program on whitewater safety.

Paul Green, who taught hundreds of boating, rescue and survival classes and clinics in his four-decade career, will discuss moving water hazards and how to minimize risks while paddling cold, high-flow spring runoff conditions.

The free program starts at 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 22, at Mountain Gear Corporate Offices, 6021 E. Mansfield Ave. in Spokane Valley. (Map)