Beaver Creek Kayak Club Hosts 6th Annual Flotilla
What a wonderful adventure the participants in the 6th annual Flotilla, sponsored by FirstBank, experienced on Saturday, May 20, 2023. It was a day that brought communities and families together with nature!
The Beaver Creek Kayak Club, located in the small communities of Powell and Karns, had over 430 kayakers registered to “float the Beaver.” Over the last several years, these communities have created a very special water trail that offers close-to-home recreation for local paddlers. The popularity of the trail has grown to include paddlers from all over the Knoxville area.
The Blueway project started with a few community-minded people with a strong interest in paddling and has become a county-wide aspiration. The plan to turn the meandering 44-mile stretch of water that had a history of flooding and pollution issues into a family-friendly destination has gained the support of the Knox County Stormwater Division, the Knox Parks & Recreation Department, Knox County Mayor and Commissioners, Legacy Parks Foundation, and the local community.
Over the last few years, Knox County Parks and Recreation, the manager of the trail, has made the trail a top priority. The beautiful stretch of water is regularly cared for, cleaned, and cleared by crews to ensure a safe and smooth water trail for paddling and fishing. There is a dedicated crew who works on the trail daily to continue its progress and maintain what has been cleaned and cleared.
Officially named the Knox County Water Trail, the 44-mile stretch of navigable water crosses five communities between Clayton Park in Halls and Melton Hill in Hardin Valley. Nourishing their natural resources is something the department focuses on and something they take pride in. To date, the park department reported they’ve removed about one thousand tons of debris and jams from 12 miles of the 44-mile-long creek, completing Phase I of the project. To learn where it all began, watch this video: Knox County Water Trail.
This year's float started at Aubrey’s Launch, behind Powell High School, and ended at the Roy Arthur Stormwater Park Launch on Harrell Road in Karns. The 12-mile-long Flotilla section is the only section that is completely cleared and currently floatable without any portage. On Saturday, over 430 registered boaters took to the water for some relaxing fun. What made the Flotilla popular and easy to access are the two BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches located at the launch headquarters and take-out. More adaptive launches are planned to be put in place as the cleaning and clearout continue along Beaver Creek. This will make the water trail inclusive and accessible for the widest range of users, because the long-term plan is to continue down the 44-mile-long stream to Melton Lake.
The two BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Boat Launches were called “a huge asset to the Beaver Creek project, for making it easier to get in and out of kayaks.” Read more about the Beaver Creek project here: https://loom.ly/Zrjta2M.
The Beaver Creek Kayak Club has a membership of over 4200 paddlers. The Flotilla receives support from Knox County Parks and Recreation, Legacy Parks Foundation, Karns Community, Knox County Watershed, Knox County Mayor, Knox County Commissioners, Weigel’s, Aubrey’s, BoardSafe Docks, and numerous other stores, restaurants, and businesses.
All event proceeds for the Flotilla have been dedicated to continuing the improvement of Beaver Creek with debris cleanout, creek bed clean up, and installation of courtesy and accessible adaptive kayak launches. Flotilla highlights can be viewed here:
6th Annual Beaver Creek Flotilla video highlights
Contributing to the Flotilla’s success is the hardworking group of community-minded people from the Beaver Creek Kayak Club. Most notably, Charlie Austin, BCKC president, received well-deserved recognition for his endless efforts over the years. The BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at Roy Arthur Stormwater Park take-out was renamed “Charlie’s Launch” to recognize his leadership and spirited commitment to Beaver Creek. Charlie grew up on the creek, believes in the value of caring for the natural resource located in their community’s backyard, and has led the volunteer efforts through promotion, advocacy, and physical efforts to clear, clean, and care for their beloved Beaver Creek.
Despite the threat of rain— which stayed away until the Flotilla ended—over 430 paddlers still showed up and had a blast. There was a light sprinkle of rain before paddlers hit the water, and they received a beautiful rainbow prior to the 3 hours of kayaking down Beaver Creek. As expected, the day did not disappoint and everyone left with a smile!
The 6th Annual Beaver Creek Flotilla, presented by FirstBank, was another great day for community and fellowship. The community and its sponsors are due huge accolades for hosting one of the biggest and best paddling events in the region. One paddler was overheard saying, “The Flotilla was the best-organized event of any kind I've ever been to, bar none!”
Learn more about the Flotilla here:
floatthebeaver.com/?fbclid=IwAR3WSprCnp7DXc1uI_DQrzeEoPdXCBaH9SDStclkLsWgl0yNEeH9C2HQaEU.
Another paddler remarked, “Who would have ever thought so many people would fall in love with our little creek?” The communities will benefit from these inclusive improvements to the creek—even people with mobility limitations. Active adults, families, and children, can now enjoy recreational experiences in a beautiful public space. This is what community is all about. Until next year—Happy paddling on Beaver Creek!
Oswego, NY, Adds BoardSafe Personal Watercraft Docks to Their Marina
Wright’s Landing, Oswego, NY, is the recipient of a new personal watercraft floating dock system at their marina on Lake Street in Oswego, NY.
Wright’s Landing is a deep-water marina close to the NYS Canal System and Lake Ontario intersection. Its boat slips offer electric and water hookups and can accommodate 20′ to 60′ boats. The marina is open to boaters from May 1st through October 15th.
As a result of the marina’s improvement project, the city of Oswego @ Wright’s Landing is able to offer docking for jet skis and personal watercraft and has created a better marina and lake experience for its visitors.
Please watch this video for a bird's-eye view of this unique installation:
https://youtu.be/Go0Um-KYMO8
The scope and unique features of the project
The City of Oswego was looking for ways to add PWC docking to their marina. The custom project was designed and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA. The project features an aluminum-welded floating dock system that includes a cantilever deck, gangway, four floating dock sections, and PWC docks for jet skis and other personal watercraft. BoardSafe partnered with RBI Contracting of New Haven, NY, to assist with installation. Tim Rice managed the project for the City of Oswego.
A cantilevered deck section was installed parallel to the marina’s existing seawall. This enabled the gangway to offer a smooth and easy transition to and from the parking lot area. Four floating dock sections, each 25 feet in length, are secured to the seawall with five support arm structures. The hinged support arms provide additional structure and stability to the dock system and allow the floating dock sections to rise and fall with changing water levels on Lake Ontario. The project also includes 10 new EZ Dock PWC ports that are attached to the outer edge of the aluminum dock’s frame. BoardSafe floating docks’ welded aluminum frame offers a design feature that allows the plastic PWC ports to be connected to the proprietary extrusion around the perimeter of the dock. This demonstrates how BoardSafe’s product line can complement and enhance other marine products to increase their functionality.
Components of the project include:
- a 100-ft long dock made of up of four 25-ft. aluminum floating docks supported by plastic encapsulated flotation.
- a 5-ft. wide x 32-ft. long aluminum gangway.
- an aluminum cantilevered deck structurally fastened to the existing seawall.
- five aluminum support arms for stability to hold the floating dock in place and move up and down with the rise and fall of the lake.
- Ten PWC ports connected to the floating docks for jet ski and PWC storage and dockage at this location.
The cost of the project was in the $150,000 range.
What makes Lake Ontario attractive to boaters?
Wrights’ Landing is well known in the City of Oswego for its wide range of services and amenities for boaters and visitors. Situated on the southern shore of Lake Ontario, the marina can accommodate boaters looking for seasonal slip rentals and transient dockage for a short stay. In addition to boat storage and docking, Wright's Marina offers a fueling station, providing gasoline and diesel fuel for boaters. The marina includes a 3–4 lane boat launch, a fish cleaning station, a boat pump-out, 24-hour restrooms and showers, and nighttime security. They also have a ship store for purchasing boating essentials, accessories, and supplies. They have experienced staff members who can assist with boat launching, haul-outs, and maintenance services.
Factors that make Wright’s Marina unique
The marina's location in Oswego is advantageous for boaters and provides easy access to Lake Ontario. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities—particularly salmon and trout. Many boaters choose Wright's Marina as a starting point for fishing trips and recreational boating on the lake.
Wright's Marina is conveniently located near downtown Oswego, where boaters can find restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The city itself has a rich history and offers various recreational activities, including exploring Fort Ontario State Historic Site, visiting the Oswego Speedway, and enjoying the beautiful Oswego River.
The geographical location of Wright’s Marina contributes to its uniqueness. It is situated in a scenic area that provides access to Lake Ontario’s attractions. Wright’s Marina offers desirable amenities and services that cater to boaters. Their services and amenities include boat rental, repairs, fuel station, restaurants, wi-fi access, swimming, picnic areas, and a store to make the marina stand out when compared with others.
BoardSafe’s design improves boater experiences
The new PWC docks are part of Wright’s Landing Marina Boater Services Improvement Project, and will further strengthen, support, and complement the ongoing momentum to revitalize Oswego’s waterfront. The intent of the project is to provide enhanced amenities that will appeal to existing boaters and attract new visitors to enjoy the picturesque waterfront on Lake Ontario.
BoardSafe’s experience in construction and manufacturing gives them unparalleled expertise and innovative solutions to address the changing conditions of tides, currents, and other water fluctuations that range from severe flooding to drought conditions. Their experience and customized waterfront solutions have made BoardSafe the trusted expert for park directors, civil engineers, landscape architects, and communities who desire only the best-engineered and highest-quality aluminum floating docks and launch systems for their water access points. BoardSafe’s structural and durable aluminum floating docks are safe and environmentally friendly. Read more about BoardSafe’s design and manufacturing experiences here: BoardSafe Manufactures Marinas, Rowing Centers, Adaptive Launches, Gangways, and Bridges.
View BoardSafe’s About Us video by clicking this link: BoardSafe Docks: Industry Leader in the Manufacturing of Marinas, Rowing Centers, Adaptive Launches, Gangways & Bridges.
More about Wright’s Landing Marina Boater Services Improvement Project
Oswego’s mayor, Billy Barlow, expects the improvements will transform Wright’s Landing Marina into a modern, state-of-the-art marina that will attract more boaters, visitors, and Oswego residents to the marina and along the waterfront. For years, the city has failed to capitalize on the beauty of its waterfront. These improvements are projects identified by boaters during a 2016 waterfront feasibility study. Barlow believes the marina can help market the entire Oswego community.
The construction, renovation, and improvements to improve boater, recreational, and leisure amenities include:
- ADA-accessible marina access.
- marine fuel availability.
- renovated bathrooms and showers.
- new welcome center and gift shop.
- new steps connecting the marina to Breitbeck Park.
- stone fire pits along the water that can be rented by the hour.
- rental kayaks, peddle boats, cruiser bikes, and a fishing boat.
The entire marina has been elevated by three feet to help offset flooding.
The city hopes these improvements will bring more foot and boat traffic to the area since the improvements have made the marina ADA-accessible. Visitors are encouraged to check out the boater access services building, new pavilion, and amenities.
BoardSafe Docks understands the benefits and impact their floating dock systems offer to communities and park systems. BoardSafe knows boaters want safe, easy, and inclusive access to the water and the ability to connect their families to nature and the water. BoardSafe’s floating dock systems for marinas enhance the ability to safely secure vessels in the water, allowing boaters to come onto land for dining and other recreational activities.
To discuss your project and create a water entry site that offers safe and easy access with inclusive and adaptive features, contact us at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launches "Huge Asset" to Beaver Creek, TN, Project
Mayor Glenn Jacobs is proud to announce the formation and investment in formally establishing the Knox County Water Trail on beautiful Beaver Creek. This initiative is focused on clearing, cleaning, and caring for a 44-mile stretch of navigable water across five communities between Clayton Park in Halls and Melton Hill in Hardin Valley.
This project includes two BoardSafe ADA Accessible Kayak Launches, called "a huge asset to the Beaver Creek project, to make it simpler to get in and out."
Here is a link to wbir.com's Channel 10 presentation of the project, including a brief presentation of a BoardSafe dock:
"Float The Beaver" Event set for Saturday gives paddlers a chance to explore Beaver Creek
Here is a link to the official Knox County Water Trail site video featuring BoardSafe docks:
Mill Pond, NJ, Improves Accessibility for Paddlers with Adaptive Kayak Launch
Mill Pond Park in Plainsboro, NJ, recently improved accessibility for kayakers and canoers by adding a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch to its scenic park. Mill Pond Park, located along Plainsboro Pond, is designated for non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, and picnics.
The Town of Plainsboro, NJ, worked with GPI Engineering and BoardSafe Docks for a design solution to make the pond accessible and inclusive for paddlers looking to enjoy its beauty and natural surroundings.
The project included a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, a 10-ft.-long gangway, and two 8x10 floating docks. The cost of the project was in the $45,000 range.
Plainsboro Township is a former farming community that over the years has transitioned into a diverse community of about 23,000 people. Through intentional planning, Plainsboro Township has become a small, suburban, desirable community that focuses on balanced economic growth and open space preservation. These values provide residents with an exceptional quality of life. Plainfield Township has been recognized by New Jersey Monthly magazine as one of the top 10 “Best Places to Live” in New Jersey.
Plainsboro Township was looking for improved accessibility so visitors could paddle the pond, so it’s no wonder they chose the best adaptive kayak launch on today’s market.
Read more about the launch here: 6 Reasons for Designing a Universal Access Kayak Launch.
BoardSafe was able to work with the GPI design engineers on their initial concept and came up with a unique design solution that would allow them to place the launch in their desired area in the pond.
The adaptive launch system includes a concrete bulkhead and an aluminum bulkhead mounting angle that connects the aluminum floating dock system to the shoreline. There are two hinge pins inserted through the aluminum mounting angle that connect the bulkhead to the gangway and chute, which are shown in the picture below. This connection adds structural integrity and durability to the aluminum-welded launch.
Since no two waterfront projects are exactly alike, BoardSafe Docks works with its customers to design optimum solutions for each launch site. To view over 20 different possible launch configurations, click here: BoardSafe Kayak Launch Layout Options.
BoardSafe Docks is a premier manufacturer of aluminum floating docks, aluminum pedestrian bridges, aluminum gangways, aluminum piers, rowing docks, accessible kayak launches with adaptive features, and other marine products.
Contact BoardSafe Docks today at 610-899-0286 to learn more about the most durable and accessible aluminum floating launch options for your location. The team will help you find the ideal solution to meet your needs.
An accessible and inclusive kayak launch helps paddlers enjoy the lifestyle they’re looking for—safely, easily, and responsibly. Plus, an aluminum dock is easy to install and will look amazing for many years to come. BoardSafe Docks will get you out on the water without delay to enjoy kayaking and the surrounding nature. ’Tis the season for paddling!