Final answer:
In channels, it's best to paddle a canoe close to the shore when going upstream due to slower current, and near the middle when going downstream to utilize the faster current. Knowledge of waterway conditions, like those near Roanoke Island, is crucial to avoid accidents and protect local ecosystems.
Step-by-step explanation:
When operating a boat in a channel, it is important to be mindful of the safest and most efficient course. While paddling a canoe upstream, it is advised to travel close to the shore.
This is because the current is slower near the edges of the river where the water encounters resistance from the riverbanks, allowing for easier paddling and less exertion. Alternatively, when canoeing downstream, it is often best to stay nearer to the middle of the river where the current is stronger and can help carry the canoe along, making the journey more efficient.
Navigational knowledge is essential, as illustrated by the example near Roanoke Island, where shallow areas can impede larger ships. Understanding the local waterway conditions and channels can prevent accidents, such as running aground, as experienced by the Tiger near the Outer Banks. Smaller vessels with shallow drafts are better suited for narrow or shallow channels. Always ensure to remove any potential invasive species by cleaning your boat and equipment, as per Maryland waters protection guidelines, to maintain the health of the ecosystem.