Fort Worth Rowing Club

The Membership Rules, Safety Policies, and By-laws are the foundation of the Fort Worth Rowing Club (FWRC) hereafter referred to as the Club. All Club members, class participants, supporters, and affiliates are required to follow them. These rules are designed to make our activities in the Club as safe and productive as possible. In all cases, common sense prevails. Nothing we do as a Club is worth endangering anyone’s well-being or damaging equipment.

In order to keep our members safe and to keep our equipment in proper working order, we all need to think and act safely on the water and when handling our equipment onshore. These rules are intended to give common ground and understanding to ensuring that purpose.

All members of the club, including coaches, coxswains, rowers, supporting members, and guests, are required to follow these rules. Violation of any required rules could lead to suspension or revocation of Club membership and/or the right to use Club equipment. Where safety precautions are “advised”, all members are highly encouraged to comply. These pertain to the Club locations at Beach Street and Marine Creek Lake (MCL), as well as any temporary locations from which the Club might operate.

1. All members are strongly encouraged to actively participate in the Club by volunteering for work parties, working on committees, assisting in other club activities, Regattas/Races, performing other special activities, or serving on the Board of Directors.

2. The goal of the Club is to provide opportunities for all members at every level, from the novice to the world-class athlete, to pursue his/her rowing goals in a civil environment marked by mutual respect, courtesy, and cooperation reflected in language, attitudes, and behaviors.  Instances of inappropriate behavior which are brought to the board’s attention may result in a written notice from the board that future behavior could result in suspension or revocation of Club membership.  If the behavior is egregious to the point where a warning is not warranted, as determined by a majority vote of the board, that member’s Club membership will be terminated after the first offense.  Repeat offenses will result in suspension or termination of Club membership.

3. Members are expected to attend annual meetings of the Club.

4. Club Dues are due by March 31 of each year. Current members who have not paid dues, acknowledged these Rules, and signed the FWRC Waiver by that date will be considered to be non-members and will be removed from the membership rolls. If those members decide to later rejoin the club during that year, the full amount of the annual dues plus $50 will be charged.  Exceptions to this rule will be considered by the Board on a case-by-case basis.

5. Use of Club equipment is a privilege extended to all members in good standing on a conditional basis. The Board of Directors may restrict a rower’s use of equipment or suspend/revoke an individual’s membership for not following the general guidelines put forth in these rules or other communicated Club-wide processes.

6. Members who rent boat storage space from the Club are to be full-time members in good standing.

7. Members shall be responsive to the Boathouse Manager in maintaining all equipment belonging to the Club. Only Board Members, or those acting on behalf of Board members, shall act as an agent in securing work services from an outside person or organization without the consent of the Board of Directors. The Boathouse Manager or Club President shall approve any outside purchases/expenditures up to $500.00. Expenditures greater than $500.00 require Board of Directors approval before the purchase or repair is made. There will be no reimbursement by the Treasurer to any member unless the proper approval is obtained, and receipts or invoices provided.

8. Only Board Members, or those acting on behalf of Board members, shall act as agents in securing work services from an outside person or organization without the consent of the Board of Directors. The Boathouse Manager or Club President shall approve any outside purchases/expenditures up to $500.00. Expenditures greater than $500.00 require Board of Directors approval before the purchase or repair is made. There will be no reimbursement by the Treasurer to any member unless the proper approval is obtained, and receipts or invoices provided.

9. All Club members and guests must sign all waivers, consent forms, or any other forms directed by the By-laws, rules, or Board of Directors before they are allowed to use the Club's facilities and row. Members are required to join the US Rowing organization and sign their waiver. Specifically, when joining the Club or renewing Club membership, as a minimum all members must sign or complete, as appropriate:

a. An affirmation of an understanding of these Club Rules and any addendums thereof

b. SafeSport training

c. A demonstration or affirmation of swimming proficiency sufficient to cover 100 meters and to tread water for two minutes.

d. A current FWRC and US Rowing waiver.

10. The facilities at Beach Street and MCL are not staffed but are available for all members to row at any time except those instances mentioned herein and upon notice from any member of the Board for unusual circumstances that may arise. It is each member’s responsibility to maintain maximum security at both locations. All boathouse doors are to be shut, locked, or fully secured, and all equipment properly secured when rowers are on the water and when the last person leaves the boat house.

11. The boathouse is to be used for official Club activities only. Any other use of the boat house by members must be approved by the Board.

12. The boathouse door lock combinations are not to be shared with any non-club members.

13. The Club enforces a zero-tolerance policy concerning the possession or use of illegal substances in the boathouse.

14. To ensure that all members have fair access to the boats, all Club boats shall be reserved using the current online boat reservation system i.e., GroupMe App.

15. The Club President, in consultation with the Board of Directors, can and shall designate times when there is no rowing. These “no row” periods normally reflect but are not limited to, events that may endanger the safety of members or equipment such as periods before/after storms, water or air temperatures extremes, or any other reason that requires prudence in the interest of safety.

16. Dissemination of information pertaining to club activities will normally be posted in the Club’s online reservation system (currently the GroupMe app). All members are encouraged to utilize the app for the sharing of all and any information that would be relevant to other members, particularly information regarding rowing safety such as large debris which could impact rowers on outings after yours.

1. This codification of safe rowing rules is not intended to cover - nor could it cover - every situation that might occur which may present a safety hazard to you or others you row with. Common sense must be applied before and during every row.  The purpose of this section is to emphasize common safety standards that apply to the Club, its members, and its equipment.  Although rower safety is the primary concern of the Club, your rowing safety cannot be guaranteed without the application of common sense. Each rower must use good judgment in assessing his or her own ability in combination with the weather and water conditions and the effects they can have on boat stability and plan accordingly. Ultimately, you are responsible for your own safety. Experienced rowers should also offer their assistance to other less experienced rowers if they observe their activities are struggling or not in line with safety protocols. Please consult resources including USRowing.Org, FISA Safety Standards and Recommendations, and other rowing websites or publications for additional information.

2. No club boats are to be rowed on the Trinity River if the water is flowing over the Beach Street dam. (Note: The Club is working towards moving the dock from its present position by the low-water dam to a location approximately 300 feet east of the Beach Street bridge. This rule may be amended if and when that move is complete). Rowing under these conditions is extremely dangerous for even the most experienced rower considering the proximity of the dock to the low-water dam and the swift currents that present themselves after heavy rains. Flipping a boat under these conditions could have disastrous and/or life-threatening consequences – not just for you, but those who might try to help you if they observe you in trouble. The dam height is 16 feet, and you should consider Club boats off-limits when the water is over the dam regardless of whether a no-row declaration has been issued. Check the Club website under the Safety tab for the USGS gauge height and flow rates when considering to row.  No-row declarations will normally be issued on the boat reservation app (currently “GroupMe”).  Accidents are rare in rowing, but they are not non-existent and all rowers - regardless of their experience level - should exercise diligence and err on the side of caution if the weather or river/lake conditions are questionable.

a. In the event of swamping, capsizing, collision, or "person overboard" and you (or the crewmember) are unable to get back in the boat:

• Stay with the boat, using it as a flotation device, and completely put on Personal Flotation Device (PFD) if present. Paddle to shore with the boat and/or flag another rower or boater for assistance. Utilize your cell phone and/or lifejacket whistle to call for assistance.

• In all instances, stay with the shell or scull. In nearly every case, some portion of the boat will remain buoyant. Stay with it!

• Do not depend on the carbon fiber oars as flotation devices.

• Although they may help initially, the oars will eventually fill with water and lose buoyancy.

• If you fall out of your boat near either low-water dam, or if the water current will soon put you in close proximity to either dam, do not attempt to get back in your boat; swim with it to the nearest shore and take whatever measures which are necessary to move away from the dam to a location which is safe to get back in your boat, or simply remove the boat from the water and seek assistance.

• Even though the river flows away from the dam near 4th Street you should still exercise caution while near it even if you have not capsized.  If the current is strong, a backflow of water towards the dam can create a hazard to rowers that could make them fall from their boats.

3. Weather: Using an online weather service or checking local weather news is highly advisable prior to each row (multiple mobile applications are available on all platforms). Judge probable conditions over the duration of the row. Other sources of weather information include personal observations and the local knowledge or experience of other rowers. Before launching, ensure the following:

a. Storms: No thunderstorms and/or lightning are in the area, and the weather is not threatening. Wait thirty (30) minutes after observing the last flash of lightning before launching a boat.  Upload a weather application to your phone which shows the location, intensity, and movement of precipitation and the proximity of lightning strikes and refer to the app before every row. (Note: Spring thunderstorms are common in this area and come up quickly. They may be accompanied by high winds.)

b. Cold Weather: While rowing is allowed all year long, rowing in cold weather is dangerous. Members must be aware of the weather and water conditions and make an informed decision on whether to row or not taking those factors into consideration. Uncontrollable shivering, disorientation and impaired judgment start to occur before exhaustion or unconsciousness. The following chart is taken from US Rowing for time in the water:

Water Temp.                       Exhaustion or Unconsciousness

Under 32 degrees                    Under 15 minutes

32.4-40                                     15-30 minutes

40-50                                         30-60 minutes

50-60                                         1-2 hours

- Below are recommendations for those who want to row during cold weather:

• Do not row when the combined water temperature and air temperature combined are below 100 degrees or the water itself is below 50 degrees. A water temperature gauge is available in the boathouse.
• Take a PFD
• Take a cell phone
• Take a noisemaker such as a whistle.
• Row with a buddy

WINDS: High winds can produce choppy water and occasional white caps. Wind speeds above 15 mph at Beach Street, and above 10 mph at Marine Creek Lake, can create very choppy water conditions. Choppy water can dramatically increase rowing difficulty which also increases the likelihood of capsizing your boat. Make it a priority to become familiar with the effect of various wind directions and intensities on areas of the lake and river where you are rowing. Be flexible and be ready to    alter or cancel your rowing plans to react to shifting wind directions and intensities.

4. Water traffic
Be aware of hazards on the water which may include:

a. Pleasure/fishing boat traffic (MCL)

b. Other FWRC boats

c. Swimmers (mainly at MCL) and kayakers at both locations

d. Fishermen on the shore with their lines out.

e. Obstructions in the water such as floating logs and debris.

5. Night Rowing
Club boats should not be rowed after dark (1/2 hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise unless all of the following conditions are met:

a. Shells are properly lighted

b. Members must not row alone

c. It is advisable to carry a PFD and a cell phone

6. Club Boat Usage

Scullers, whether in Club boats or their own, are required to comply with these safety rules:

a. To use a Club boat, a sculler must be qualified to use our single, double, and quad sculls.

b. Level 1 certification requires completion of a “Learn to Row” class and passing the Club certification process which in a single includes demonstrated rowing competence, carrying techniques, storage procedures, backwatering, pivoting, swimming certification, and the ability to safely return to the dock.

c. Rowers with previous rowing experience wishing to become a member must also be cleared to row before going out alone.

d. Level 2 is bow certification required for a double or a quad.

e. LTR graduates are required to carry a PFD in a single for the duration of their 3-month membership following completion of the LTR class. If they choose to join the Club at the completion of their 3-month trial membership, the LTR coordinator or a Board member familiar with the skill level of the rower must approve a relaxation of this requirement.

7. Before You Row

a. Enter your name, date, your start time (and finish time after your row is complete), boat rowed, and stroke coach number used (if applicable) in the club logbook regardless of whether you are rowing a club or a personal boat.

b. For most purposes, a quad shell should have at least two-experienced rowers in the crew positioned in the stern and bow.

c. Protective clothing should be worn which is appropriate for the conditions and level of activity. Rowing shells are low profile, thus have poor visibility to other traffic. Make yourself as visible as possible by wearing a “high visibility” shirt of bright yellow, green, pink, or orange. Avoid gray, white, or dark clothing. Each crew member should bring a water bottle. PFDs and Cell phones are also advisable.

d. Carry or use the boat cart to transport the boat to the dock. If using the cart at Beach Street, be sure to secure and lock it to the ground cable near the dock to avoid theft.

e. At MCL, place the orange flags in their holders located on both sides of the dock to notify the public not to congregate on the dock while rowers are active.

f. If you cause or become aware of any equipment damage to the boat or oars you used during your row, enter that information into the logbook after your row.

g. Pay special attention to and inspect the following:

• Steering mechanism including the rudder, steering line, and skeg
• Decks, vent lids, and plugs are watertight
• Bow ball in place (all shells and sculls are required to have a bow ball)
• Proper sized boat for the safety of the crew and the equipment
• Heel restraints and “quick-release” mechanisms for fitted shoes should not allow the heel to lift more than 5cm (2 inches).
• Check the water for any visible hazards.

8. On the Water

a. While on the water, be diligent about any hazards. Also, watch for fishermen on the banks and their fishing lines.

b. Immediate action shall be taken to get off the water and take shelter if lightning is sighted, thunder is heard, or other evidence of an approaching storm is observed.

c. All Club members shall exercise extreme caution when leaving or returning to the dock for other rowers and hazards. This is especially true at MCL as that is an active area for fishing boats, swimmers, and kayaks.

d. Traffic patterns: To avoid boat conflicts on the Trinity River, rowers going upstream are to remain to the north side of the river (shore on starboard side) and rowers coming downstream are to row towards the south side (shore on starboard side). Rowers coming downstream through the overpasses have the right of way. At MCL be cognizant of the water-skiing club practicing near the dam. A diagram is posted at MCL depicting the location of the ski club and the lake itself. A diagram for the Trinity River is also posted at the Beach Street location.

e. If you observe an on-water hazard which is not normally present, enter that information into the logbook after your row and post a message on GroupMe warning other rowers who might launch after you.

Each member shall be required to keep the Club's equipment at Beach Street and MCL and physical surroundings in good order. Club equipment must be handled with the utmost care, on both land and on the water. The maintenance and care of Club equipment is the responsibility of all members. Most importantly, we are all responsible for our and other members personal safety around the boathouse and on the water.

a. A Club rowing Logbook shall be provided and maintained in the Beach St. boathouse and MCL at all times. The logbook will be maintained by the boathouse manager.  The logbook serves as a means of communication, and equipment breakdowns or operating malfunctions encountered should be entered into the log and communicated separately to the Boathouse Manager for equipment malfunctions requiring immediate attention. In the case of minor problems, the rower shall make every effort to correct the situation before leaving the boathouse.

b. Before moving a boat to be rowed, members using either their own boats or Club boats must sign out in the logbook entering:

• Name(s) of those in the boat.
• Name of the boat used.
• Time of departure.
• Upon return, sign in by entering time of return and any special messages about equipment or unique circumstances.

c. After use, the boat’s hull and rigging should be wiped down, drained, and vents opened. Stow vent caps in the shoes if there is no string attachment. The boat shall be returned to its proper position on the rack.  All members shall maintain the boats they row and for ensuring the boat is in proper condition before and after each row.

d. Normal wear and tear of equipment is expected, and it is understood that accidents do happen. Accidents resulting in damage to Club boats will be investigated and repairs initiated by the Boathouse Manager or President. If damage is the result of negligence or a violation of these rules, those responsible may be assessed the cost of repairs.  The problem and the corrective action taken must be recorded in the Logbook.

e. Defective equipment, which may suffer greater damage or may harm to those using it, must be repaired prior to further use. If the damage to a boat is serious enough to preclude it from being taken out on the water, the rower must post a "Do Not Row” sign on the boat which will be clearly visible so that all Club members are made aware of the damage and the boat will not be signed out until repaired. Unreported damages to any equipment belonging to the Fort Worth Rowing Club or another Club member and not reported to the Boathouse Manager or President, may result in revoking Club membership, no refund of membership dues, and the member could be personally responsible for the cost of repairs or replacement.

f. The boathouse Manager or other Board member must give approval for any FWRC boats/equipment to be transported from the Boat House. All shells and equipment are to be signed out in the logbook.

g. Moving Boats:

• When lifting a boat always make sure there are enough people and that they are properly distributed.
• Always lift boats off the racks, do not slide them off on the gunwales unless they are on sliders.
• Watch riggers carefully to make sure they will not hit or scrape anything.
• When putting a shell on the racks
• Lift the boat evenly.
• Close and tighten the oarlocks after removing oars from the riggers.
• For coxed fours and eights, use a coxswain to move a boat. Listen for the coxswain’s commands and refrain from unnecessary talking.
• Never step in the bottom of the shell or drop anything heavy into the bottom of the shell. Step only on the strip when entering and exiting the boat.
• When transporting shells remove or secure all seats and rigging. Gunwales should be on foam protectors, never on plain metal. Make sure all shells are secure – boats should not be able to move in any direction during transport.
• Never step over a boat, always walk around it.
• Do not place shells on the ground. Shells should be placed on stretchers so they are properly supported.

h. When retrieving or returning boats to the storage racks, ensure enough people of the proper size, experience and fitness are available to safely remove and return the boat.

• The Club rigging standards shall be set to satisfy the majority of the Club members. Boats will not be re-rigged without the permission of the Boathouse Manager. If permission is obtained to re-rig a boat for a race or practice, the rigging should be returned to the original "Club position" when the race or practice has been completed. This does not pertain to foot stretcher adjustments or spacers on the riggers.

i. Club Oars:

• All club oars have been numbered as matched sets and should not be intermingled.
• Do not change oar markings or settings.
• Carry oars with blades forward and only carry one or two sets of oars at a time.
• If an oar is damaged, note that in the logbook and place an out-of-service sign on the oars.
• Exercise care when handling oars. Upon returning oars to the racks, place them on the racks according to the storage plan directed by the Boathouse Manager.

1. Members may have guests participate in Club activities as long as they have signed the appropriate waivers. Members sponsoring the guests must ensure both the Club waiver and US Rowing waiver have been signed and provided to the Membership  Coordinator. FWRC waivers are available online at www.fortworthrowing.org for signing or hard copy at the desk in the boathouse. US Rowing waivers can be found on their website at USRowing.org

2. Members assume complete responsibility for their guests and must accompany them while using the facility and on the water. 

• Host members must sign their guests in and out of the logbook, record the boat used, and their own name beside that of their guest.
• A guest may not use a single unless accompanied by an advanced qualified member.
• There is no charge for guests first visit, fees of $10 per row are required thereafter.

Introduction

For many who take up the sport of rowing, a desire to compete against others is a natural progression as skills increase. Members of the Club have historically competed in many local regattas, national regattas, and even worldwide events with much success. This section describes the process for regatta attendance laying out what is hoped to be a fair and equitable process that gives all members who are interested in competing for the opportunity to do so. Regatta attendance is highly encouraged for those who might wish to race as it helps to build a sense of community and camaraderie among the membership.

Regatta Coordinator

The Club Regatta Coordinator is responsible for facilitating and coordinating the participation of the Club and its members in regattas and other competitions hosted by other rowing organizations. The Regatta Coordinator acts as the central point of contact for all members of the Club with regard to attendance at regattas and all that doing so entails.

Regatta Selection

1. Club membership with the direction of the Regatta Coordinator will determine sprint and headrace regattas and will be designated as the “Club-Sponsored” Regattas.

2. Truck/Trailer Fees will be charged separately as described in the following sections. To avoid any confusion, only those who race are charged the truck & trailer fees.

Club Designated Regattas

1. The composition of the “Club Sponsored” Regattas will be determined by the membership with the direction of the Regatta Coordinator.

2. The regional regattas are meant to encompass the areas in Texas and Oklahoma.

3. Regattas outside of this general region can be considered for designation as “Club Sponsored” Regattas with approval of the Board of Directors, and the Truck/Trailer Fees may need to be adjusted upward to account for the extra distance.

4. Selection of club regattas shall be determined based on being able to serve as many members as possible and based on the majority of the club memberships.

5. “Club Sponsored” Regattas have priority usage for the Truck and Trailer, racing shells, and corresponding equipment needed.

Trailer Fees

1. Trailer fees may vary and are intended to cover the gasoline expenses for the truck and boat trailer and/or food expenses at the regatta will be determined based on the mileage of the regatta from Ft. Worth and the number of active rowers participating in the event.

If a rower violates any of the Club rules or policies as set forth, the consequences will be as follows: 

1. First Violation: Rower will get a warning.

2. Second Violation: Rower will not be authorized to row in Club boats for one month

3. Third Violation: Rower will be considered for membership suspension or revocation by the Board and may be subject to either penalty based on a majority vote.

4. Non-membership: If a rower is found rowing without a valid membership, guest sponsorship, and/or signed waivers, that individual will be expelled and not be allowed future membership.