Janet Zeller

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Janet A. Zeller is a lifelong paddler experienced in both canoeing and sea kayaking. After a 1984 accident resulted in quadriplegia, Zeller was determined to return to paddling. Since that time, Zeller has worked to provide instructors with the knowledge, techniques, and tools to help people with disabilities access canoeing and kayaking opportunities.

In 1989 Zeller developed the integrated adaptive paddling program for the American Canoe Association (ACA). With Annie Wortham Webre, she coauthored the first book focused on opening the sport to paddlers with disabilities. Since 1990 Zeller has traveled nationwide as an ACA instructor trainer educator of adaptive paddling workshops. She trains canoeing and kayaking instructors, recreation and health care students and professionals, and those who run water-based recreation programs in the techniques for integrating people with disabilities into their programs.

Zeller is the National Accessibility Program manager for the U.S. Forest Service, author of numerous articles, and a frequent presenter on accessibility, universal design, and inclusive outdoor recreation at national, regional, university, and local forums. In her free time she enjoys sea kayaking, canoeing, and wilderness camping.