Students to stand-up paddleboard 50 miles to raise money for the Great Lakes

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich. (WPBN/WGTU) -- Three northern Michigan middle schoolers are setting out on a challenging journey to raise awareness for the Great Lakes.

On May 1, Owen Werner, Max Ward and Jamie Peters of Cherryland Middle School plan to stand-up paddleboard 50 miles on the St. Mary’s River.

Their science teacher, Kwin Morris, who is also the co-founder of Stand Up for Great Lakes, will be with them.

The group will start at the Soo Locks and end on Drummond Island.

Their goal is to raise awareness for increasing levels of plastic pollution.

"I fish these waters with my buddies, swim, boat, ski in them and much more,” Jamie said. “They are a big part of my life and the lives of thousands and thousands more.”

When they paddle, they will be accompanied by a safety boat, EMT and also garnished with dry suits and PFDs.

If you would like to support the Soo Locks Student Paddle you can donate online or offline.

All funds will be donated to Stand Up For Great Lakes to help to preserve and protect all Great Lakes by inspiration, education, awareness and action.