Zaac's 2009 bicycle visit to the Rupert River, far away from human population centers and inaccessible to many Americans. It was one of the most remarkable wild places on the planet. Selected photos of a 5000km bicycle journey over some of the most mysterious and remote roads, including a 666km dead-end, dirt road known as the Trans Taiga Highway. The second known bicycle journey on this road, rode on a vegan diet, most of which had been scavenged.
During the damming of this region, it was not known that a naturally occurring and harmless form of mercury in the soil would be converted by bacteria to deadly methylmercury which is associated with birth defects and numerous neurological disorders (Maxwell et al., 1997:24).
Maxwell, James; Lee, Jennifer; Briscoe, Forrest; Stewart, Ann; Suzuki, Tatsujiro. “Locked on course: Hydro-Quebec’s commitment to mega-projects.” Environmental Impact Assessment Review. 1997.
Fish account for a full quarter of the traditional Cree diet. Mercury toxicity undermines this food source, forcing reliance on to the store bought groceries currently connected to an increase of heart diesese, obesity, and diabetes.
One study found that 64 percent of natives tested with unsafe levels of mercury poisoning (Maxwell et al., 1997:24).
Maxwell, James; Lee, Jennifer; Briscoe, Forrest; Stewart, Ann; Suzuki, Tatsujiro. “Locked on course: Hydro-Quebec’s commitment to mega-projects.” Environmental Impact Assessment Review. 1997.
Deep passes cut through hills enable centralized control over the water. No fences are needed around this ledge because people are not expected to go here.
At the sign KA-1 awaits America’s most north-eastern dead end. I turn around and head home.
In putting this sideshow together I must send out many thanks to many people who I will do my best to properly acknowledge. I am especially grateful to those who helped me prepare and made this trip possible such as Aaron at Carrion Cycles who constructed an incredible bicycle frame. I also want to send a big thanks to Nick Jackson who I had the pleasure of riding north with for the first leg of the trip, and who generously provided a ride to Montreal.
The critique and editing advice of Meg Rudne and Jim Hoffecker were also an invaluable contribution to making this particular recollection possible. The web support by an old friend Nick McGlynn was very helpful. I am grateful to Eric and Mike Giannico who painted my bicycle. I also own thanks for the assistance offered by Dave at Raw Indulgence, who gifted me some tasty energy bars for my trip.
Several people who found me shelter along the way were, at times, crucial. I owe a big debt to Sophie Richard-Ferderber & Denyse Richard & Danny Ferderber for their generous assistance and support. I am grateful to Sylvan of Camp Despains and send hope that his project flourishes. Additionally I send thanks to Tourne-Sol, Antoine Desrochers, Julie Sim, Alexis Bertrand & Noah, Lucie & Sam & Irish, Silvio Gallus & Sabrina Morissette, a much appreciated accommodation and friendly debate at Leaf River, Blanch's family, the family at Nouchimi km 286, Marie-Anne Boulanger, Jean-Luc Boily, Alex Robitaille, Stéphanie St-Amant, and Peupleloup. More thanks to other support and arrangements along the way made on my behalf from Jean-Marie Arsenault, Clotilde & Marie-Josée, Téa Troy, the warm reception arranged by Joselyn, and Freddy Jolly.
Additionally I am glad to have met and been acquainted with the wonderful projects of Lucy Golden & Jamie Burris & Luke Golden who provided a ride from New Hampshire to the Connecticut Mycological Foray.
Finally a big thanks to many others from whom I retain memories but not names.
I appreciate all of your assistance!
Photos by Zaac C. All rights reserved.
