ACA ACA Water Reading & River Hydrology 2

Question 1

What is the International Scale of River Difficulty Class III rating?

Accepted Answer

Moderate rapids with irregular waves, requiring basic maneuvering skill

Answer

Class III on the International Scale indicates moderate, irregular rapids requiring maneuvering skill, but with safe eddies and predictable entry lines.

Question 2

What does 'reading water from shore' mean in ACA river instruction?

Accepted Answer

Scouting a rapid from land to identify hazards and plan a route before paddling

Answer

Reading water from shore means physically walking to the bank to visually assess a rapid's hazards, hydraulics, and ideal paddling line before committing to run it.

Question 3

What is a 'pillow' of water in river hydrology?

Accepted Answer

A cushion of water that builds up on the upstream face of a submerged rock

Answer

A water pillow is the cushion of upstream-pressing water that builds against the face of a rock, which can deflect a paddler or swimmer away from the obstacle.

Question 4

What causes a 'pourover' on a river?

Accepted Answer

Water flowing over a completely submerged rock creating a hydraulic below

Answer

A pourover forms when water flows over a fully submerged rock or ledge, dropping into a hydraulic trough that can recirculate downstream.

Question 5

In ACA river instruction, what does 'ferrying' describe?

Accepted Answer

Crossing a current by angling the boat and paddling to move laterally without losing ground

Answer

A ferry maneuver involves angling the boat into the current and paddling to move laterally across the river while the current pushes forward, maintaining position or crossing without losing ground.

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

(ACA) American Canoe Association Instructor Certification Practice Test

ACA ACA Water Reading & River Hydrology 2