Suggestion for the panel (definitely in the "for what it's worth category"):

How about something like "Lessons learned from 225 years of paddling."  (the 225 -- or whatever the number is -- would be the collective number of years of canoeing represented by the panelists). 

The subject/title of this panel has to appeal to the average wilderness canoeist at the show.  I think the presentations should ideally provide light, funny stories that offer advice in a subtle way -- and supported with great pictures (flashed on a screen somewhere?).  Humor and humility are far more entertaining than a bunch of loosely-connected lectures. 

If done right, this could be an interesting panel that entertains and informs and is invited back in future years.  If done wrong, it could be misinterpreted as a bunch of boring, condescending, self-important codgers who think they know it all.  Of course no one on this website fits that description!  But I just add a caution that best intentions, without careful planning can sometimes be misinterpreted.

Good luck!

prouboy