Savannah River 7/17/04

07/17/2004 - Savannah River: We got an early start and paddled the Savannah River between the Stevens Creek Dam and the Old Augusta Lock and Dam. Wildlife was plentiful, including Deer, Beaver, Anhingas, Wood Ducks, Purple Martins, and Barn Swallows. There were lots of Black Buzzards, including one inside an old shack and a pair perched above the dam. A large snake skin (about 6 feet long) had us watching for the former owner. Swamp Mallow was abundant and in full bloom. This is a gorgeous section of river, even though it is only a mile long. There are about seven islands that we weaved between and kept sneaking up on Wood Ducks and Anhingas. The water was clear enough that the bottom could be seen in most places except the deepest.