Flotilla at Beaver Creek, TN, Enjoys 2 BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches
What an amazing day of paddling the Beaver Creek Kayak Club created for their local community on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at their 5th annual Flotilla sponsored by First Bank. A passionate group of kayakers and a very long list of community stakeholders and volunteers also accomplished something for their community far beyond their successful Flotilla.
Charlie Austin, president of the Beaver Creek Kayak Club, played a substantial role in building the club to almost 3200 members who support the club’s efforts.
At the kickoff to the day’s events, Charlie Austin exuded enthusiasm and graciousness for the overwhelming community support they received. He asked for a show of hands to gauge how many paddlers were local to the Powell and Karns communities, where two BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches have been installed. The inclusive launches are located in Powell behind the high school and in Karns at the Roy Arthur Stormwater Park. The accessible launches are 6 miles apart on the picturesque Beaver Creek. Paddlers completed the 6-mile paddle in about 3.5 hours and enjoyed some beautiful nature and sites along the way.
.
Charlie asked the attendees to raise their hands if they were from outside the Powell and Karns communities. Almost half of the attendees put their hands in the air. With such an enormous turnout to the flotilla, it was evident the paddlers want what Charlie has created for his devoted community: close-to-home recreation; safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water; the ability to paddle the picturesque Beaver Creek; and a desire to connect with their community.
The installation of two BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches has provided all that and a fun day of paddling that included everyone. “If you build it, they will come,” is a common theme where BoardSafe launches are installed. BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launches are designed for the widest range of users: young and old, novice and experienced, those who are physically able, those with limited mobility, and even paddlers in wheelchairs. The launch has been designed with the help of Ken Ryno, a C-5, C-6 paraplegic, and input from other adaptive paddlers who enjoy the freedom and independence they gain on the water. Here is a video of Ken entering his kayak independently:
The Most Accessible Adaptive Kayak Launch
The inclusive launch is fitted for kayaks, canoes, and SUPS, and gets everyone in the water safely and easily. Saturday’s flotilla connected families with each other, connected families to their community, and connected communities with other communities. The flotilla was clearly a win-win event!
The final number of registrants for the 2022 flotilla reached about 420 paddlers, a significant increase from last year's 225 participants.
Attending the event and showing support for the club’s efforts were Glenn Jacobs, Knox County Mayor; Carol Evans, Legacy Parks Foundation Executive Director and Floatmaster of the flotilla; Chris Parrot, Senior VP of First Bank, the community bank that sponsored this year’s flotilla; Joe Mack, Director of Knox County Parks and Recreation; Larsen Jay and Terry Hill, Commissioners for Knox County; and Justin Lafferty, State Representative.
Carol Evans, the Floatmaster for the flotilla, attended the first planning meeting about 7 years ago and recognized that people want close-to-home recreation opportunities. “The Great Smokey Mountains are a short drive away, but Beaver Creek is in our backyard and a place where people can stop after work or spend part of their weekend” she said. Ms. Evans also recognized Randy Burleson on the 30th anniversary of Aubrey’s Restaurant, whose generous donation to the Legacy Parks Foundation and Knox County Tennessee - Water Trail paid for the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at Powell, now being identified as "Aubrey’s Launch."
Larsen Jay, a commissioner for Knox County, stated that he has been involved in this project for the last 4 or 5 years. He and his co-commissioners understand the value to the community of the cleanup of Beaver Creek. So much so, that Knox County mayor Glenn Jacobs allocated one million dollars to improve and maintain the 44-mile stretch of water. A dedicated maintenance crew floats the creek every day to take something out. To date, they have removed 704 tons of debris, from small trash to downed trees and dams that have caused stormwater runoff and flooding of the community. Their vision of “Clear it, Clean it, and Care for it” has received overwhelming support from the communities along Beaver Creek.
As the creek has been cleared and cleaned, the water quality has improved, the flooding decreased, and the stream is now open to the community for paddling and fishing. Knox County Stormwater hosted an information booth at the flotilla and provided education about their role in caring for the creek. Its mission of stormwater compliance is to enhance the quality of life for Knox County citizens through education, service, and management of water resources.
Kayaking and other paddlesports have proven to be beneficial to one’s mind, body, and spirit, and major factors in the dramatic increase in the number of people who now enjoy the sports. Saturday’s flotilla demonstrated an even greater, additional value, because it showed that building and investing in community resources will bring communities together—particularly communities that may not have been connected in the past.
The excitement about these communities investing in an accessible and inclusive BoardSafe Kayak Launch was present before the flotilla started.
Charlie Austin, club president, commented on the Beaver Creek Kayak Club’s Facebook page, “Y’all!!! I absolutely could not be any more excited! The new launch docks for the Landing in Powell and Roy Arthur Stormwater Park are heading to Knoxville! These docks are going to be a game-changer for total access to the stream! I feel like a kid that’s gotten the best gift ever! I’m so excited for the future of Beaver Creek!”
It's understandable why Charlie is president of the Beaver Creek Kayak Club—his enthusiasm and passion are contagious and you feel it from the moment you meet him.
Charlie wasn’t the only one excited about the launches being installed prior to the flotilla. Meredith Millhorn Boatman spotted BoardSafe’s tractor-trailer and stopped to post the following picture to BCKC’s Facebook page to share her enthusiasm about the accessible launch that was on its way. The club’s excitement was contagious as they waited for BoardSafe Docks to arrive.
Facebook photo posted by Meredith Millhorn Boatman
The number of volunteers the kayak club rounded up was too many to count. Blue shirts were everywhere ensuring that everyone was being helped and kept happy. The day could not have been such a success without them.
This 5 a.m. setup crew worked many long days leading up to the event.
Volunteers assisting at Powell Launch (upper photo) Volunteers at Roy Arthur Park exit (lower photo)
The commitment from community stakeholders was also evident by both their time and donations. The local Napa Auto Parts donated water to each participant in the paddling event and Weigles’ convenience store donated snacks and refreshments at the first exit and tossed granola bars and treats to those who chose to complete the full 6-mile paddle.
Almost every segment of the community seems to have played a part in this grassroots effort started by the Beaver Creek Kayaking Club and Karns Community Club. Participants included local scouting groups and high school teams who volunteered their time. What a great example this community is modeling for their youth!
The long-range plan of the Beaver Creek Kayak Club is to work with community stakeholders to continue to "Clear, Clean, and Care for" the 44-mile stretch of Beaver Creek. After their extremely successful flotilla, their energy level remains high to continue on down the creek. Connecting communities and getting everyone on the water safely and easily will please the families who reside there, build value by connecting the communities, and make Beaver Creek accessible to everyone who wishes to enjoy its beauty.
Adaptive Paddler Reviews Accessible Kayak Launch After First Experience
If you are interested in learning more about the amazing efforts of the Beaver Creek Kayak Club, you can follow them on Facebook and view hundreds of pictures from this memorable day. To help support this amazing community with their continuing efforts, you may donate here: https://legacyparks.networkforgood.com/projects/161247-beaver-creek-water-trail.
BoardSafe Docks was pleased to play a part in the design and manufacture of adaptive kayak launches for both the Powell and Karns communities. These launches will allow safe and easy access to the water for many years to come. "It was an incredible experience and an honor to have played a part in the event,” said Scott Tihansky of BoardSafe Docks. The excitement and sense of community could be felt by everyone involved. Every paddler ended their day with a smile. “Incredible." "Amazing." "So easy." "This is so awesome!” These were comments heard from paddlers as they exited their kayaks after the 6-mile paddle to the Karns Community Launch.
Click on the following link to view more pictures from the Beaver Creek Kayak Club 2022 Flotilla:
https://www.icloud.com/sharedalbum/#B0l53qWtHZdfDR
BoardSafe Docks is a trusted designer, engineer, and manufacturer, of all types of aluminum floating docks and fishing pier systems. Their adaptive kayak launch and design knowledge about specific adaptive features necessary for paddlers in wheelchairs help make inclusive paddling happen for many cities, towns, lakes, and riverfront communities.
BoardSafe also specializes in designing and manufacturing rowing centers for national collegiate rowing teams all across the USA. You’ll find their gangways located all across the United States in places like the TD Garden in Boston and Battery Park in New York. They find solutions for many design questions that leave architects and engineers scratching their heads. BoardSafe is the go-to source for any project on the water. Their sales team is always available for questions, consultation, and to assist you in finding your optimal waterfront solution.
To learn more about our projects, please visit our website, BoardSafeDocks.com, or contact us at 610-899-0286.
Maintenance Costs Are at a Minimum with Your BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
We often receive questions about the long-term maintenance and durability of our accessible products, particularly the BoardSafe adaptive floating dock system. In many cases, BoardSafe’s floating dock systems are funded through grants and taxpayer-funded initiatives; therefore, customers tend to look for products with long-term durability and minimum upkeep.
With increasing material costs and economic indicators hinting that prices of goods and services will continue to rise in the near future, project funding and tight budgets don’t always include a budgetary line item for long-term maintenance costs.
It’s justified that cities, towns, parks, and recreation departments, are concerned about long-term planning and additional resources it may take to fund, build, and maintain their capital investments. With tight budgets and inflation on the rise, buyers are looking for quality and long-lasting products with minimal long-term maintenance costs.
The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch empowers adaptive athletes, making it easier to enter and exit their vessel. Their features promote independence, allow adaptive paddlers to experience the freedom of the water like everyone else, and make it safer for the volunteers and family members who are there to assist them.
Adaptive features specific to BoardSafe Kayak Launches
The adaptive features found only in a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch include a gangway with a 1/12 pitch or less. The boarding bench is the same height as a wheelchair, making it easy for kayakers to slide onto the bench. The bench offers a gradual step down to the vessel. The roll cage around the bench offers extra supportive features with the overhead grab bar and optional hand staps.
The paddler can slide down the bench from either side, depending on their preference. There is a stadium-style bleacher seat that pulls out over the kayak. With the paddler seated on the bleacher seat, the overhead grab straps afford adaptive athletes the ability to slide themselves slowly into their vessel.
Boarding Bench Adaptive Features can be seen in this picture
Adding to the stability of the launch is a cradle that holds the kayak securely in place. The kayak fits snugly into the cradle so there is no worry about tipping or moving unexpectedly, which is the risk with roller-type launch systems. Adaptive paddlers have reported that the roller-type launch does not securely hold the kayak in place, and gravity can cause the vessel to shift upon entry, making the entrance less safe than a cradle launch.
Once the adaptive paddler is securely fitted into the vessel, there are appropriately-spaced grab bars on each side of the cradle they can use to pull themselves out onto the water. BoardSafe’s inclusive features are demonstrated to work (see video link below), and the value of these features to an adaptive paddler has no price. The true value is getting them out on the water with family and friends.
Structural features of BoardSafe Floating Docks
While the inclusive features are valued by adaptive paddlers, it’s the structural features that make BoardSafe Docks the premier floating dock option on today’s market. The structural integrity of BoardSafe products sets them apart from the rest of the competition. Anyone who has seen or experienced the launch firsthand can attest to the quality design of their docks, gangways, piers, and adaptive launches.
BoardSafe’s first adaptive kayak launch installed in 2015
In addition to the value of BoardSafe’s adaptive features, the floating dock system also offers value to those concerned about the dock’s long-term maintenance. Understanding the product components and the structural integrity of BoardSafe’s floating dock system helps keep concerns about long-term maintenance costs at bay.
BoardSafe Floating Launches are durable, versatile, and able to withstand the test of time and weather. Not all dock builders have this reputation. The aluminum welded frames, composite decking, and plastic encapsulated flotation, create a maintenance-free system.
Launches may remain in water and can withstand a freeze and thaw, and snow, as long as there are no tidal changes or moving ice jams that may do damage to the launch.
More about Boardafe Dock’s structural components
There are three main components used in manufacturing a BoardSafe aluminum floating dock. The combination of these materials has proven to provide a structural, aesthetically pleasing floating dock system with a life span of 20 to 30 years. The system is intentionally designed for minimum maintenance and upkeep.
The BoardSafe Floating Dock System is manufactured using the following materials:
- Aluminum Frame
- Marine Grade 6061 or 6063
- Welded connections
- Stainless steel fasteners
- Composite Decking
- Rated for commercial use
- Rated for anti-slip in accordance with ADA requirements
- Plastic Encapsulated Flotation
- Foam-filled
- Plastic shell
Why do these durable materials make the system long-lasting and unique?
Welded connections, marine-grade aluminum, and stainless steel fasteners, withstand the test of time and weather and are maintenance-free materials. Aluminum and stainless steel will not corrode or rust. These components also stand up to the elements of weather and changes in tide and temperature, and are durable enough to withstand the test of time.
The composite decking used in BoardSafe’s systems helps make the decking system maintenance-free. The water-resistant, plastic deck boards used on BoardSafe docks have an anti-slip tread that meets ADA standards. Since BoardSafe kayak launches are designed to the highest standards of accessibility with the adaptive community in mind, the safety precautions they take are a standard and not an option.
The plastic-encapsulated floats provide stability by distributing weight more evenly and meet all marine industry standards. The floats will adjust to the water’s changing height and tidal changes and will keep the dock’s freeboard unchanged.
Pictures from the first BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at the ribbon-cutting ceremony on 10/24/2015
Leaser Lake is the location of the first adaptive kayak launch, which was installed in 2015. The following pictures show a frozen Leaser Lake in 2021 and a picture from the spring of 2022, seven years after its installation. Kayakers will be able to enjoy the launch for many years to come because of its structural integrity and durability.
A frozen Leaser Lake in 2021
Leaser Lake Adaptive Kayak Launch in spring of 2022 (7 years later)
“BoardSafe has all the features to provide the most access to the greatest number of users’” said George White, Wetland Biologist and Team River Runner Chapter Coordinator for Lehigh County.
People who enjoy water sports are often subject to climates and locations that experience four seasons. For example, people in New England and the midwest face extremes of heatwaves and frigid blizzards. Many of BoardSafe’s clients in these areas are concerned about protecting their floating docks, fishing piers, gangways, and adaptive accessible kayak launches. Parks and outdoor spaces must winterize their areas by putting items into storage, placing covers over certain items, and spending time to protect objects against the harshness of the winter. Customers often ask if BoardSafe products need to be removed from the water and stored during the winter. The short answer is, “No, BoardSafe’s floating docks, fishing piers, gangways, and adaptive accessible kayak launches do not necessarily need to be removed for the winter.”
User groups in the northern United States and Canada will be happy to know that Board Safe’s docks and launches can remain in the water for the winter as long as there is no fluctuation in the body of water where the launch is located and there are no ice pack movements around the launch system. Unusual situations, like draining a lake or chunks of ice floating down a river, could damage the product. That said, a floating dock, fishing pier, or adaptive launch that has a steady level and flow of water around it will endure the winter and can be left in the water. However, this decision should not be made in isolation without having conversations about winter weather conditions with both park managers and BoardSafe Docks.
BoardSafe’s products use high-quality grades of stainless steel, synthetic lumber, fiberglass, hardware, and other materials that are selected for their durability and ability to withstand extreme elements. However, they cannot control acts of Mother Nature and consideration should always be given to preparation for the most extreme of all possible weather conditions.
Since every location and application is just a little bit different, BoardSafe Docks should always be consulted prior to allowing products to sit in the water throughout the winter. With hundreds of installations across numerous climates and environmental conditions, BoardSafe is an expert in location selection, site work, design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of floating docks, piers, and adaptive launches. To discuss your project and learn more about BoardSafe Docks, their adaptive features, durable construction, and long-term maintenance suggestions, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Adaptive Kayak Launch Installed at Rotary Park, Coldwater, MI
A new BoardSafe Docks adaptive kayak launch was just installed at Rotary Park in Coldwater, Michigan, sponsored by the Coldwater Township Sunrise Rotary and the Coldwater Rotary Club. It was funded through the Coldwater Rotary Club, the Coldwater Township Sunrise Rotary, and the Coldwater Solar Project.
This BoardSafe Docks launch is the only adaptive kayak launch in the area. BoardSafe designed and fabricated the system, and provided onsite construction supervision, working alongside the city's employees to build the launch.
It will allow all kayakers, including those with special needs, to have easier access to the water.
We Empower All Abilities. This Spring Will Be More Fun for Paddlers at the New Beaver Creek Launch in Powell, TN
Two new adaptive kayak launches have been installed on Beaver Creek! You will find them at Powell High Landing (Brickyard Road) and Roy Arthur Stormwater Park (Harrell Road).
Beaver Creek Water Trail spans the length of Knox County, Tennessee, a 44-mile stretch from Halls to Melton Hill in Hardin Valley, and is a popular spot for paddling; ADA boat dock with kayak put-in behind Powell High School; dock/put-in at Roy Arthur Stormwater Park features a popular route running from the Park to the Northwest Sports Complex with a mix of light rapids and peaceful, placid water.
Beaver Creek is an ideal learning site, especially the area from Halls to Powell or launching at the put-in behind Powell High School and floating to Clinton Highway. You can stand up and walk out of most places in the creek and the gentle current will carry you along.
Learn more about the Beaver Creek Water Trail and how BoardSafe Docks helped them meet their accessibility and deadline goals with these local pieces:
View this video on Facebook:
facebook.com/groups/1682230425349003/permalink/3166073996964631/
Offer ADA Inspired and Adaptive Accessibility at Your Marina
The Village of Fairport on the Erie Canal recently redesigned its waterfront to improve accessibility for its adaptive paddling community. The Erie Canal Boat Company is proudly equipped with a custom BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, part of a complete waterfront redesign at its Erie Canal entry point. GPI, the design engineer on the project, sought out BoardSafe Docks for their assistance in developing a design solution for the Fairport Village Boat Launch and Marina.
The initial plan was to provide universal access to the water. The community is proud to be working together to make inclusion happen. Our customer was looking for an adaptive kayak launch that would be placed in an area that rests next to their newly-designed boat ramp. BoardSafe was able to work with the design engineers on their initial concept and came up with a unique design solution.
The adaptive launch system was designed with a concrete trench at the top of the launch and included a bulkhead angle and a related hinge pin that attached to the floating dock system. The space allowed for the pin to be easily installed and removed if necessary and provided a secure attachment of the floating dock system to the concrete wall.
Bulkhead angle attached to launch
The scope of this customized project included an 8-foot-wide gangway that fit into the designated launch space. The kayak chute was designed to be 8 feet in length. The adaptive system included an 8-foot by 20-foot floating dock and Clip-a-Launch 20S (designed for entry from one end). The loading and unloading area was designed to accommodate multiple wheelchairs and is welcoming to adaptive paddling groups. The cost of this project was in the $50,000 range, and it was installed at the location of the Erie Boat Company, Inc., operated by Peter Abele.
8-foot-wide aluminum gangway
The beauty of a project like this is its ability to be used in almost any unused marina slip. BoardSafe Docks will work with its customers to design the floating dock system to any length and width to add these accessibility features to your existing marina. The desirable features of the BoardSafe inclusive launch system are that it offers boaters the ability to kayak, canoe, or SUP, safely and easily from the launch, and serves the widest range of users, from those who are able bodies to those who are in wheelchairs. It will allow your guests another option to see and explore the villages and towns surrounding your marina.
What draws boaters to this marina
The Erie Canal Boat Company is known for its kayak rentals and excursions along the Erie Canal. There are plentiful walking and bike trails along the canal to explore. The boat company offers accessible kayak, canoe, paddleboard, pontoon, and bicycle rentals to people of all abilities. The launch offers universal access for its residents and visitors, making it a popular tourist destination and a solid revenue stream for the town, marina, and businesses located along the canal.
Boaters may dock their boat in one of the marina’s boat slips and use all of the additional recreational opportunities available at the marina. The additional activities beyond boating take visitors to places they may not be able to get to with their boats, and allow visitors to enjoy the sites, both on and off the water.
The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch supported the Erie Canal Boat Company with its mission and has helped make Fairport an inclusive destination for boaters and paddlers of all abilities. Tourism is on the rise in Fairport, and it’s receiving many praises, being recognized for its ability to provide universal access.
Not far from Fairport, the Village of Brockport also installed a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. The adaptive system is located in downtown Brockport along the Erie Canal, and the popularity of the launch has been good for the town as showcased in this link: http://ow.ly/rSEv50IRMIm.
You can learn more about BoardSafe's exclusive adaptive products here.
Take a video tour of the Fairport accessible kayak launch at the link below.
Village of Fairport, NY Accessible Kayak Launch with ADA Features
Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 if you're looking for ideas on making your marina more accessible to your users or for using an existing boat slip to offer an adaptive kayak launch.