BoardSafe Contributes to Wilgreen Lake’s Accessibility Overhaul
Big improvements can be seen and experienced at Wilgreen Lake in Richmond, Madison County, KY. Madison County officials started the improvement project in May 2023 during a joint kickoff ceremony with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. The 6-month construction project to improve Wilgreen Lake included:
- new paved parking areas for trucks and trailers.
- repairs and updates to the concrete boat ramp.
- an accessible kayak launch with adaptive features for paddlers in wheelchairs.
- courtesy docks and boat slips with new decking.
The upgrades were made possible by a recent grant of $250,000 to Madison County and the KY Division of Fish and Wildlife. The partners worked together on the 6-month project that aligned with the county’s vision: to improve Madison County every day, for every citizen.
Wilgreen Lake is a 169-acre reservoir in Madison County, Kentucky. It was constructed in 1966 and became a popular fishing destination for largemouth bass, channel and blue catfish, sunfish, crappie, and saugeye. The lake is located near I-75 off Exit 87; the coordinates of the lake and launch area are 37.7083-84.3500.
A review by The Outdoor Navigator offered this video tour of the lake’s recent improvements: Wilgreen Lake Upgraded!! and noted these highlights: First and foremost, the small graveled parking lot has doubled in size and the newly paved parking area can now accommodate about 30 trucks with trailers. The video points out repairs to the single-lane concrete boat ramp, the new floating courtesy docks, and an area designated for launching kayaks similar to the BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch at Lake Reba. Wilgreen Lake is recognized as a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and boating, and is a nice lake overall. The reviewer mentioned how proud he was of his local government for making these improvements to his “home lake,” one of his favorite places to fish and paddle.
Wilgeen Lake’s Adaptive Kayak Launch
BoardSafe’s Accessible Kayak Launch provides universal access with over 20 possible launch configurations that can meet various site specifications. BoardSafe’s design experts can evaluate site conditions and recommend a launch system that keeps customers at the center of the design process. A BoardSafe Accessible Kayak and Canoe Launch will enhance communities and improve the user experience with its sustainable and durable design. Its many functional configurations can be viewed here.
BoardSafe Docks specializes in design consultation, engineering, and manufacturing of adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, gangways, pedestrian bridges, collegiate rowing centers, floating docks, and marinas. As an industry leader and design expert, BoardSafe will work with you to find solutions and ensure your project is accessible for all. To discuss your project’s vision and learn more about BoardSafe’s accessibility products and the long-term value they bring to communities, please contact us through the website at BoardSafeDocks.com or call us at 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe’s Courtesy Docks and Fishing Piers Accommodate Anglers
BoardSafe Docks is helping to connect anglers to Bill Dance Signature Lakes throughout Tennessee. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited sites in the United States, while at the same time, anglers are drawn to Tennessee’s Bill Dance Signature Lakes with the same enthusiasm for their world-class fishing.
Tennessee waters benefit from lake improvements
Those who love to fish are seeing significant improvements to their waters thanks to the Bill Dance Signature Lakes initiative. Legendary fisherman Bill Dance now serves as the inspiration behind the Signature Lakes program after serving as an ambassador for the state.
For over five decades, bass fishing superstar Bill Dance has taught generations how to fish. Dance also became famous for his TV shows: Bill Dance Outdoors and Bill Dance Saltwater. Dance’s Signature Lakes is a collaborative effort of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Tennessee State Parks, and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Their goal is to improve and enhance Tennessee Lakes, increase visitation, and honor Dance’s legacy.
Since the program was announced in December 2021, much work has been done at participating lakes, including stocking 935,000 fish in small lakes and 8.4 million fish in large reservoirs.
Additional efforts are underway to improve access to fishing and boating with new boat ramps, expanded parking, courtesy docks, and fishing piers. BoardSafe Docks is excited to contribute to these improvements by improving accessibility to their lakes’ gangways, courtesy docks, and fishing piers.
BoardSafe’s Scott Tihansky with bass fishing superstar, Bill Dance
Improved accessibility at Pickwick Dam showcases improvements
In July 2022, BoardSafe Docks manufactured a project for the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency at Pickwick Dam. Located within Pickwick State Park at 116 State Park Lane, Counce, TN, the floating dock system consists of
- one 10’ x 200’ main dock.
- three (3) 5’ x 30’ gangways.
- three (3) 6’ x 10’ connecting docks at the bottom of the gangway.
- composite decking.
- plastic encapsulated flotation.
- aluminum floating docks with a 20-inch freeboard.
View the project video here: Floating Dock System at Pickwick Dam in Tennessee
Pickwick Dam is a popular floating and fishing pier for locals, and a prime location for professional bass tournaments, such as the Bassmaster Elite Series that was held at this location in the summer of 2022, as well as The Bassmaster Collegiate Series held at Pickwick in August.
Additional BoardSafe improvements made to Courtesy Docks, Accessible Fishing Piers, and Gangways can be used at the following Bill Dance Signature Lakes.
Brown's Creek Lake, located within Natchez Trace State Park at 1735 Browns Lake Rd., Lexington, TN. This 167-acre beauty includes a boat launching ramp, fish attractors, a fishing pier, rental boats, a courtesy dock, and restrooms. The creek has a reputation for Big Bass but also has excellent fishing for Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, and Channel Catfish.
Lake Halford, located at 405 Boyd’s Landing Rd., Huntingdon, TN, is a 1000-acre lake located in Carroll County. It has a boat launching ramp, fish attractors, a fishing pier, and rental boats. A picnic area and restrooms are available to visitors. The lake is home to several types of fish, including Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Crappie, and Walleye.
Herb Parsons Lake, located at 140 Herb Parsons Way, Collier, TN, in Fayette County, is a 177-acre lake that offers family picnic areas and concessions. Fishing licenses and lake permits are available for purchase on-site. Boat rentals are available to get out on the water to fish Bluegill, Catfish, Crappie, and Largemouth Bass.
Each of the three lakes has been made more accessible with a BoardSafe floating dock system that includes a 5-ft. x 40-ft. access gangway attached to a floating courtesy dock. The gangway boasts a dual-sided handrail system using a unique aluminum mesh for ADA compliance. Each floating dock measures 8 ft. x 30 ft. long, with rub rail and cleats allowing boats a temporary tie-up.
The second dock system installed at each location is an accessible fishing pier. Each pier includes a 5-ft. x 40-ft. access gangway with an ADA-compliant pitch so paddlers in wheelchairs can safely access the pier to fish. Also included is a dual-sided handrail system with unique aluminum mesh protective side panels. Each floating dock measures 8 ft. x 75 ft., with a protective ADA handrail around the perimeter. The handrail uses aluminum mesh panels at varying heights on the top rail for ADA compliance. This provides a safe and easy way for people in wheelchairs to fish from the dock.
The benefits of adaptive and inclusive docks
Adaptive fishing piers are designed to accommodate and enhance the fishing experience for individuals with physical disabilities or mobility challenges.
These piers are attractive to adaptive anglers for several reasons:
Accessibility Adaptive fishing piers are built with accessibility in mind. They typically feature ramps, wider pathways, and other modifications that make it easier for anglers using wheelchairs or other mobility devices to reach the fishing area.
Safety These piers often include safety features such as railings and non-slip surfaces to ensure a secure environment for adaptive anglers. Safety is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities, and adaptive piers help address those concerns.
Adaptive equipment compatibility Adaptive fishing piers may be equipped with features that facilitate the use of adaptive fishing equipment. This can include specialized fishing rod holders, seating arrangements, and other modifications that cater to the needs of anglers with different abilities.
Inclusive design Adaptive fishing piers contribute to the promotion of universal access to outdoor recreational activities. By providing an accessible and welcoming environment, these piers enable individuals with disabilities to participate in fishing alongside their friends and family.
Community engagement These piers often serve as focal points for community engagement and shared outdoor experiences. They provide a space where adaptive anglers can connect with other members of the fishing community, fostering a sense of belonging and social interaction.
Regulatory compliance Many adaptive fishing piers are built to comply with accessibility regulations and standards. This ensures that these structures meet specific criteria, such as those outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States, making them accessible and usable by a wider range of individuals.
Scenic views Adaptive fishing piers and courtesy docks are often located in scenic areas, providing a beautiful backdrop for fishing activities. The aesthetic appeal of these locations can enhance the overall fishing experience for adaptive anglers, making it a more enjoyable and fulfilling activity. Besides, no dock on the market is as aesthetically pleasing as a BoardSafe Dock.
Education and outreach Some adaptive fishing piers may include educational components or outreach programs aimed at providing information and resources for adaptive anglers. These can include information on accessible fishing techniques, equipment, and community support services.
In summary, adaptive fishing piers offer universal access and are attractive to adaptive anglers because they address specific accessibility needs, promote safety, facilitate the use of adaptive equipment, encourage community engagement, and contribute to an inclusive and enjoyable fishing experience. Simply put, they meet everyone’s needs.
According to the American Sportfishing Association, Tennessee is home to half a million acres of lakes and 1.84 million people who fish. Fishing generates $1.3 billion in economic impact annually and supports 8,140 jobs across the state.
Each Bill Dance Signature Lake was selected by agency partners and Dance himself for its ability to be an accessible fishing destination and provide quality fishing fun for avid anglers and their families. The improved accessibility also makes the lakes available to anglers in wheelchairs, those with mobility limitations, and those who experienced difficulty in accessing all the lakes have to offer. Endorsed by Bill Dance Outdoors, additional projects are expected to be near completion by fall 2024.
Do you want to know more about Bill Dance?
Bill Dance is a popular bass fishing superstar who has taught generations to fish. He hosts and produces Bill Dance Outdoors and Bill Dance Saltwater, airing respectively on the Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel. For decades, Bill Dance has served as an ambassador for the state of Tennessee and is always filmed or photographed wearing his trademark orange-and-white University of Tennessee cap.
In 2021, Country Singer Luke Bryan wrote a song for and created this video of his fishing hero, Bill Dance: Luke Bryan - Bill Dance (Official Music Video).
BoardSafe Docks is honored to provide the best accessibility products in today’s market for the best anglers on the water. To learn more about BoardSafe’s gangways, accessible docks, and fishing piers, contact BoardSafe through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610.899.0286.