Legal Terms & Participation Conditions

Effective Date: November 24, 2025 • Last Updated: November 24, 2025 • Version 1.0

These Legal Terms ("Terms") govern use of the Open Waters Network ("OWN") website, application processes, partnership interfaces, and related informational resources. By accessing or using our site, submitting an application, or engaging as a partner, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, discontinue use immediately.

1. Mission & Nonprofit Nature

OWN operates programs advancing access to paddlesports and wilderness safety education. Certain administrative and financial functions may operate under fiscal sponsorship until independent 501(c)(3) status is attained. References to tax‑exemption are conditioned on sponsor status and may change without notice.

2. Informational Purpose & No Guarantees

Website content is provided for general informational and educational purposes. We endeavor to maintain accuracy but do not guarantee completeness, timeliness, or error‑free presentation. Participation decisions (scholarships, partnerships) are discretionary and subject to capacity, safety assessments, and alignment with mission objectives.

3. Eligibility & Application Submissions

• Applicants affirm information submitted is truthful and not misleading.
• Submission does not guarantee selection; evaluation factors may include readiness, impact potential, safety alignment, and diversity goals.
• OWN may request clarification, documentation of certifications, or references.
• Applications may be retained for longitudinal program evaluation (see Privacy Policy).

4. Donation & Financial Disclaimers

Donation interfaces (when enabled) may route through third‑party processors. Unless expressly stated, donations are unrestricted and applied toward overall mission execution including safety training, equipment access facilitation, and outreach. Refunds are generally not provided except in cases of clear processing error. Always retain confirmation emails for personal records.

5. Partnership Engagement

Partnerships (outfitters, instructional providers, sponsors) are subject to vetting for safety standards, inclusivity practices, and alignment with regional conservation principles. OWN may discontinue a partnership if integrity, safety, or equity concerns arise.

6. Intellectual Property

All original content (text, graphics, branding elements, program descriptions) is owned or licensed by OWN. Limited, revocable, non‑exclusive permission is granted to access and view content for personal, non‑commercial use. No reproduction, redistribution, or derivative creation without prior written permission. Third‑party marks remain property of their respective owners.

7. Safety & Risk Disclosure

Outdoor and paddlesport activities carry inherent risks including environmental exposure, physical injury, equipment failure, and unpredictable weather or water conditions. Participation in any training, expedition, or instruction facilitated through OWN or partners is voluntary. Individuals are responsible for assessing personal readiness and following guidance from certified instructors. OWN disclaims liability for incidents occurring outside the scope of formally supervised educational sessions.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, OWN shall not be liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, or special damages arising from website use, application outcomes, partnership decisions, or participation in associated activities. Where liability cannot be disclaimed (e.g., gross negligence), recovery is limited to documented direct damages not exceeding amounts actually donated or paid.

9. Indemnification

Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless OWN, its volunteers, fiscal sponsor, and partners from claims arising out of misuse of the site, false application statements, unauthorized content reuse, or violation of these Terms.

10. Third-Party Links & Services

External links may reference training organizations, conservation groups, or donation processors. These are provided for convenience; OWN does not control third‑party content and disclaims responsibility for availability, accuracy, or security practices.

11. Modification & Availability

OWN may update, suspend, or discontinue site sections or program descriptions without notice for improvements, compliance considerations, or seasonal adjustments. Material changes to these Terms will reflect in the Last Updated timestamp.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York, without regard to conflict of law principles. Users consent to jurisdiction in appropriate state or federal courts located within New York for dispute resolution.

13. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in full force and effect consistent with original intent.

14. Contact & Notices

Legal or compliance inquiries: legal@openwatersnetwork.org. General program questions: info@openwatersnetwork.org.

This document provides general terms and does not constitute formal legal advice. Consult licensed counsel for binding nonprofit compliance interpretation.