Accessible Kayaking at Seven Islands State Birding Park, TN
Carley Pearson, ADA Coordinator for Knox County, TN, demonstrates the features she uses at the BoardSafe Accessible Kayak and Canoe Launch located at Seven Islands State Birding Park in Kodak, TN.
🎥 Watch Carley in the full video here: fb.watch/BkGlsjJJCL.
Eric Collins, Park Manager at Seven Islands, shared, “I don’t think people understand the impact until they see it being used.” He spoke positively about Tennessee’s ongoing efforts to make its state parks accessible to all.
Tennessee’s Access 2030 Initiative
Access 2030 is a statewide initiative aimed at making Tennessee State Parks the most accessible in the country by the year 2030. The program focuses on removing barriers and providing inclusive outdoor experiences for every visitor.
Park improvements under this initiative include:
- wheelchair-accessible parking, trails, and overlooks.
- all-terrain wheelchairs at 22 state parks (including 11 in Middle Tennessee).
- colorblind viewer scopes.
- BoardSafe’s accessible products, such as kayak and canoe launches, ADA-compliant gangways, pedestrian bridges, fishing piers, and courtesy boat docks.
Each state park now has a dedicated webpage highlighting accessibility features, along with helpful online resources like educational program request forms.
Tennessee State Parks has partnered with accessibility leaders such as Sunrise Medical, which provides all-terrain wheelchairs at select parks, and BoardSafe Docks, a marine access specialist known for designing and building inclusive, ADA-compliant water access systems.
BoardSafe’s Commitment to Accessibility and Our Partners
What sets BoardSafe Docks apart is our comprehensive, consultative approach, offering design, manufacturing, and installation services tailored to improve access for all. BoardSafe works closely with TN key partners, including:
- Tennessee State Parks.
- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
- Tennessee RiverLine.
- Tennessee Blueways.
- Legacy Parks Foundation.
The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy plays a crucial role in supporting these accessibility efforts through fundraising and project support. Together with partners like BoardSafe Docks, they’re ensuring that outdoor and on-water adventures are accessible to everyone now and in the years to come.
BoardSafeDocks is honored to be an accessibility expert and partner, creating accessible adventures for all who want to access the water. To learn more about BoardSafeDocks, our products, our impact, and our role in education and advocacy, give us a call at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
BoardSafe Docks Honored by Recent Review of Adaptive Kayak Launch
BoardSafe Docks is honored by Tara Shett’s recent review of our Adaptive Kayak Launch, featured in her YouTube video: Can disabled people kayak? #wheelchair
Tara is a T11/12 paraplegic ♿️, wheelchair user, disability advocate, digital creator, and occupational therapy assistant. In her honest and inspiring video review, she shares her firsthand experience using the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch in Fairport, NY, along the historic Erie Canal.
The Erie Canal Boat Company in Fairport Village is home to one of our Adaptive Kayak Launches and offers a wide range of adaptive equipment, including the SureHands Body Support Lift, backrests, outriggers, adaptive paddles, and other custom modifications designed by Kevin Carr of Creating Ability. Together, these features provide adaptive paddlers with the tools and confidence to enjoy the water independently and safely.
Tara shares her personal journey living with a spinal cord injury sustained four years ago. Her content highlights both the challenges and triumphs of navigating life, work, and recreation from a seated position. Her mission is clear: to raise awareness and reshape perceptions of what it means to live life on wheels.
Tara’s heartfelt endorsement of our launch is a reminder that everyone deserves equal access to nature and recreation. We encourage you to follow Tara and support her advocacy for a more inclusive world, one where tourism, recreation, and public spaces welcome all abilities.
🔗 Follow and support Tara Shett:
- Facebook: Tara Shett
- Instagram: @tara_shett
- YouTube: @ParaTara
“Life doesn’t end when you become seated.” — Tara Shett
#ErieCanalBoatCompany #RochesterAccessibleAdventures
#BoardSafeDocks #CreatingAbility @TaraShett
#DisabilityAdvocacy #AdaptiveKayaking #SpinalCordInjury
#AccessibleRecreation #UniversalAccess
#InclusionIsGoodBusiness
Northville, NY, BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch in the News
July 22, 2025
It’s been a humbling week at BoardSafe Docks. Our Adaptive Kayak Launch received a lot of press in the last two weeks. 👏👏👏 Our kayak launch caters to a wide range of abilities, providing universal access to paddlers seeking to enjoy the water.
BoardSafe’s Launch was recently featured in the Adirondack Explorer Magazine.
You can read the full article here: ADA-compliant kayak launch opens Northville Lake to all Adirondack paddlers, or listen to it here: on.soundcloud.com/D3jTBZzWpjwPrRmvH.
BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch is one of the first of its kind in the Adirondacks and is making an impact for all who are looking for an easier way to enter and exit their kayaks.
Learn more about the launch by watching BoardSafe’s YouTube video:
https://youtu.be/wgoPlmAgtV8?si=jp9UHSThHM4aiOVq
We’re sure you’ll want to visit this serene lake on your next visit here! 🚣
facebook.com/share/r/16bGRcmR66/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Thank you, Northville Rotary Club, for partnering with BoardSafe Docks!
BoardSafe Docks is an industry leader in designing, engineering, and manufacturing aluminum marine access systems. With a focus on innovation, BoardSafe is known for our expertise, innovative problem-solving, and collaboration with clients to create customized solutions. Our high-quality products, which include adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, floating dock systems, gangways, and pedestrian bridges, are built to withstand challenging environmental conditions.
BoardSafe is committed to accessibility and will guide our customers to create systems that offer universal access and provide accommodations for a wide range of user abilities.
Contact us at BoardSafeDocks and allow us to assist you with improving water access points at your lake, river, or community, or give us a call at 610-899-0286 for your free consultation. #AccessYourAdventure
BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch Enhances Paddling at Erie Canal Bicentennial
All photos credit: Mohawk Valley Pictures
On Saturday, June 14th, 2025, paddlers from across Central New York gathered to celebrate a once-in-a-generation milestone, the 200th anniversary of the historic Erie Canal. The annual Boat, Float ’n’ Folk Festival in Chittenango, NY (just east of Syracuse), offered the perfect setting for the celebration, combining history, music, community, and the great outdoors. This year’s event had even more to celebrate with the ribbon cutting of a brand-new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, now open to paddlers at Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum.
Paddlers of all ages and experience levels took to the calm, flat waters of the Old Erie Canal, starting from various launch points, most notably the BoardSafe Dock installed at Poolsbrook by the Manlius Recreation Department. There were four available paddles that day, all ending at Chittenango for the festivities. The new BoardSafe launch made it easier than ever for participants to safely enter and exit the water, including those with mobility challenges. Its adaptive design features stability, accessibility, and durability that invite everyone, from first-time paddlers to seniors, families with kids, and adaptive paddlers, to confidently experience the water.
As kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards floated peacefully past historic aqueducts, over sunken canal boats, and through wide water sections of the canal, the impact of the new launch was evident. One paddler commented, “This is the easiest and safest launch I’ve ever used. It really sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable trip.” Over 200 paddlers joined the float, many taking part in a commemorative drone photo to mark the Erie Canal’s bicentennial in a truly unforgettable way.
BoardSafe’s mission to create inclusive access to waterways aligned beautifully with the spirit of the day, honoring the past while looking forward to a more accessible and adventurous future on the canal. The new launch provides a permanent improvement for the Chittenango community and its many visitors, ensuring the Erie Canal remains a recreational destination for generations to come.
The celebration concluded with the folk festival at Chittenango Landing, complete with live music, food trucks, artisan demonstrations, and a petting zoo. It was a day full of history, laughter, and paddles raised in joy.
Whether you missed the festival or want to come back for more, the Old Erie Canal State Historic Park remains open for paddling all summer. Thanks to BoardSafe Docks and our partners, the water and its history have never been more inviting.
For vacationers looking to learn more about the Erie Canal and its history, the following sites can help you plan your trip: NY State Parks & Historic Sites, NYS Canal Corporation, Village of Chittenango, Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum, Town of DeWitt Parks and Recreation, Town of Manlius Recreation Department, Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, Madison County NY Government, and Tour the Towpath.
For over 20 years, BoardSafe Docks has been a trusted leader within the commercial dock-building industry. BoardSafe’s team has the resources, knowledge, and experience to successfully take projects from inception to completion, delivering them on time and exceeding client expectations. We specialize in aluminum-welded floating docks, adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, rowing centers, gangways, pedestrian bridges, and other waterfront access products.
If you’re looking for safe access to the water, give us a call at 610.899.0286 or contact us through BoardSafeDocks.com and allow us to find a solution for improving access to your waterfront. Your paddling community will appreciate the investment!
#AccessYour Adventure
BoardSafe Paddle Center—Accessible Kayaking in Downtown Pittsburgh
Whether you’re a first-timer paddler or one who is seasoned, the Venture Outdoors Paddle Center by BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, is open and ready for some summer paddling fun. Venture Outdoors' new concession hub is located just outside the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh.
Ash Andrews, president and CEO of Venture Outdoors, talks with Daisy Jade of Pittsburgh Today Live, explaining the benefits that BoardSafe’s Floating Dock system brings to Pittsburgh’s residents and guests. You can watch the full interview from the Pittsburgh Today Live show here.
Venture Outdoors Paddle Center offers water access for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and other outdoor educational experiences. Renters can reserve sit-in or sit-on-top, single or tandem kayaks, as well as stand-up paddleboards. The launch provides a “smooth like butter” entry into the Allegheny River, stated Andrews, who demonstrated the launch and spoke about the mission and vision for the new facility. The paddle center’s main focus is on having three accessible kayak launches, plus one launch with additional adaptive features specifically to accommodate paddlers in wheelchairs. The fourth launch is equipped with a boarding bench that is equal to the height of a wheelchair, an overhead grab bar, a step-down bench with a pull-out seat, grab straps and pull bars, and a stable cradle that eliminates the fear of tipping when entering and exiting the vessel.
During the interview, Andrews shared that this is only Phase 1 of the project and stated that Phase II will be completed sometime next year, after some additional fundraising.
Those who are willing to support Phase II of their venture are encouraged to donate through their Adopt-A-Kayak Program. The city is supporting great things happening on its rivers with hopes of drawing more visitors to its waterfront. Venture Outdoors has a mission to remove barriers and provide inclusive programming to all, and their new facility does all that. The link to learn more or donate is found here: ventureoutdoors.org/adopt. For more information about using the facility or registering for special events, you may contact them at 412.255.0564 or [email protected].
Phase II includes replacing the temporary structures on the dock with an aluminum-welded floating boathouse that will provide better safety to employees and allow them to house the organization's kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
The new building will allow Venture Outdoors to increase their recreational offerings and allow for more educational programs right on the water. Donations and support will help them do even greater things and continue to break down barriers to nature in downtown Pittsburgh.
Interested paddlers can check out the Venture Outdoors website for a calendar of events that includes special offerings, group lessons, and even a night paddle!
BoardSafe Docks, the designer, engineer, and manufacturer of Venture Outdoor’s Paddle Center, is recognized for:
- ADA Gangways, aluminum-welded floating dock systems, accessible fishing piers, and adaptive kayak launches that provide accessible and inclusive waterfront experiences for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. Our products provide universal access for all and offer multiple accommodations, including a boarding bench with a pull-out seat, additional safety features, and a stable boat cradle that facilitates safe and independent access to the water.
- Durable Aluminum Floating Dock Systems: Our floating docks are engineered with high-quality materials, such as marine-grade aluminum, composite decking, and plastic encapsulated flotation, ensuring durability and longevity. Our systems are known for their ability to withstand fluctuating water levels and harsh weather conditions. BoardSafe's floating docks are also praised for their versatility and ease of expansion.
- One-Stop Shop for Waterfront Projects: BoardSafe Docks provides a comprehensive service, handling everything from design and engineering to manufacturing and installation of our products.
- Expertise in Waterfront Accessibility: BoardSafe collaborates with adaptive paddling groups, environmental engineers, landscape architects, and other experts to continuously innovate and improve our accessible products, making us a leading voice in aquatic recreation accessibility.
To learn more, give BoardSafe a call at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
Pickwick TN Adds BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch to Park Amenities
BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA, is helping to connect anglers, and now kayakers, to Bill Dance Signature Lakes throughout Tennessee State Parks.
Those who love to fish in Tennessee waters are seeing significant improvements to their lakes, thanks to the Bill Dance Signature Lakes initiative. Legendary fisherman Bill Dance is the inspiration behind the Signature Lakes program. For over five decades, the bass fishing superstar has taught generations how to fish. Dance, who is the most recognized bass angler of all time. became famous not only for fishing, but for his TV shows: Bill Dance Outdoors and Bill Dance Saltwater. Dance’s Signature Lakes initiative 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.
In 2023, BoardSafe Docks improved fishing and boating access to Pickwick Dam by designing, engineering, and manufacturing improvements to the lakes’ gangways, courtesy boat docks, and accessible fishing piers. BoardSafe’s system and fishing piers attract local anglers and are a well-known and popular launch location for many professional bass tournaments, like the Bassmaster Elite Series and the Collegiate Bass Championship.
View the project video here: Floating Dock System at Pickwick Dam in Tennessee.
As of June 2025, recreational kayakers can enjoy the same top-notch experience. The recent addition of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch is another welcome amenity and another big draw for the park. People love to kayak, and the new launch will offer an additional form of water recreation to its visitors.
We’re often asked, “Who can use the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch?”
BoardSafe’s adaptive launch is designed and manufactured with specific features that make it safer and easier for paddlers in wheelchairs to access their kayaking vessel. The aluminum-welded frame, side-by-side gangway and chute, roll cage with overhead grab bar, optional hand straps, and slide-down seat with a pull-out bench provide universal access, so everyone benefits.
However, one of the best testaments to BoardSafe’s launching system is the ability to launch your kayak and keep your feet dry, with no fear of tipping your vessel. The secure cradle keeps the kayak steady until it enters the water.
While the features have been designed and engineered with adaptive paddlers in mind, the launch offers access solutions that make it easier for everyone and can be used by anyone who wants to get out and paddle on the water. The launch connects paddlers to nature and offers a unique blend of adventure, activity, and a deeper connection to the environment and the many joys that kayaking brings.
About BoardSafe Docks
BoardSafe Docks is the trusted designer, engineer, and manufacturer of aluminum floating courtesy docks, adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, gangways, and pedestrian bridges. The sales team at BoardSafe Docks is always available for questions and consultation. They will assist you with finding your optimal waterfront solution by talking through your challenges and recommending a customized solution for your waterfront. Our systems provide individualized and custom solutions, ensuring the best possible user experience and a long-lasting system for our customers. They’re not just selling you a commodity, and their expertise, knowledge, and success in the industry are a step above the rest.
Here are project profiles that make BoardSafe Docks unique:
BoardSafe Creates Paddle Access to Chattahoochee River, GA
Tulsa’s Adaptive Kayak Launch: A Model of Accessibility & Innovation
BoardSafe’s innovative, floating designs enable the creation of new access sites and the updating and improvement of existing access sites. We work closely with landscape architects, engineers, and project planning teams to find the best solution for unique access points. For additional information, visit our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or give the sales and design team a call at 1-610-899-0286 to assist you with your design solution. #AccessYourAdventure
Great Day for Upstream Alliance: Cooper River Water Trail Opening
On Saturday, June 7, 2025, more than 450 Camden residents joined Upstream Alliance to celebrate the grand opening of the Cooper River Water Trail in Camden County, New Jersey. The day was packed with family-friendly activities, including kayaking from the new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, nature walks, fishing lessons, a kids' fishing tournament, and more, all designed to connect the community with the water.
Photo credits Julia Baugh, Upstream Alliance
Upstream Alliance was able to get about 120 people out kayaking from their new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch, while another 60 people tried their skill at canoeing on the other side of the park. Since most of the residents were first-time paddlers and had never been on the water before, they all received a paddling lesson before they got into the kayaks and canoes. The new kayakers paddled around the fishing basin, then came back to land to enjoy other events going on in the park. The energy onshore matched the excitement on the water, with face painting, games, kite flying, bubbles, lots of free food, and other festive activities filling the park.
The Cooper River Water Trail, a 15.5-mile route connecting the Back Channel of the Delaware River to Cooper River, is the result of a collaborative effort led by Upstream Alliance and supported by Camden County, the New Jersey Conservation Foundation, and other partners: Camden County Parks Department, the Center for Aquatic Sciences at Adventure Aquarium, Cooper's Ferry Partnership, and the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. The trail promotes recreation, environmental awareness, and stewardship while improving equitable access to nature for local communities.
Fueled by a $500,000 grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, this milestone event was a celebration of years of work by passionate advocates for clean water and environmental education. Upstream Alliance’s mission—to connect people with nature through on-the-water experience—was truly brought to life on Saturday, with its many hands-on learning activities for the children.
The day left the attendees with happy memories, a newfound connection to the water, and a better understanding of its history, as they experienced the importance Cooper River lends to the Camden community. BoardSafe Docks would like to credit Julia Baugh and Kara Foran for sharing the pictures related to this ribbon-cutting event.
Photo credit: Kara Foran, Upstream Alliance
Upstream Alliance is a non-profit organization focused on the environment. Their group connects people with nature, mostly through in-water experiences on waterways. They address issues like improving access, providing educational enrichment to students about improving water quality, and creating educational experiences for students that promote conservation, develop an understanding and appreciation for watersheds, and work to improve water quality. Upstream Alliance hopes the improved waters of the Cooper River will become a locally accessible recreation destination for all those living in Camden County.
Plan your trip here: camdencounty.com/.../cooper-river-water-trail/
BoardSafe Docks is happy to work with Upstream Alliance and support them in their mission to create improved access to the new river trail. BoardSafe understands the value their systems bring to communities, particularly in the realm of accessibility and water recreation.
BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch can:
- Improve communities for recreation-loving individuals and provide Universal Access to all those looking to get out and paddle on the water.
- Promote healthy living by connecting families and friends with each other and with nature, and encouraging good stewardship of natural resources.
- Enhance adaptive recreation for those who require additional accommodations, modifications, or features to access the water, including in-water rehabilitation, exercise, socialization, and improving overall health and wellness.
- Provide industry leadership to help customers design a system that will work for their needs, as well as the body of water they are located on. BoardSafe’s consultative services and expertise have guided successful project installations across the country, making them an industry leader in designing, engineering, and manufacturing all-inclusive water access systems.
If you are interested in creating or improving your waterfront access, BoardSafe’s sales team is available for questions and consultation and will assist you with finding your optimal waterfront solution. You can learn more about BoardSafe Docks’ projects at our website, BoardSafeDocks.com, or by calling 610-899-0286.
Hendersonville TN Celebrates Major Upgrade to Sanders Ferry Park Boat Ramp
Hendersonville Parks and Recreation recently celebrated the grand reopening of the Sanders Ferry Boat Ramp on the shores of Old Hickory Lake. This revitalized launch site now features three new BoardSafe Floating Boat Docks, improved gangways, and a fully renovated boat ramp, marking a significant investment in recreational access for boaters, kayakers, and anglers alike.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together many political dignitaries, residents, and representatives from key state agencies, including the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), Tennessee State Parks, the Department of Tourist Development, and the City of Hendersonville. Many speakers highlighted the importance of this project for the broader Tennessee community.
This redevelopment is part of the Bill Dance Signature Lakes initiative, an ambitious statewide effort to enhance fishing and water recreation across Tennessee. The project was funded by TWRA and is designed to improve both the quality and accessibility of outdoor recreation spaces.
BoardSafe Docks, the designer and manufacturer behind the new infrastructure, plays a crucial role in delivering high-performance floating dock systems, gangways, kayak launches, and fishing piers for TWRA and TN State Parks. Known for their high-quality, durable products and commitment to accessibility, BoardSafe’s contribution ensures that these facilities can be safely and easily used by people of all ages and abilities.
Andy Gilley, Director of Hendersonville Parks and Recreation, called the renovation a “complete transformation.”
“The new docks are much longer and extend farther into the lake,” Gilley explained. “BoardSafe’s tournament-level docks will bring fishing tournaments to the city, including the high school state championships and professional fishing events. Everybody wins with the quality systems that have been installed.”
State Representative William Slater praised the project for balancing environmental stewardship with community enrichment:
“Tennessee gets conservation right,” Slater said. “Not only do we protect the environment, but we also strive to improve the quality of life for our citizens.”
Recreational use of Sanders Ferry Park continues to grow. According to the Hendersonville Parks and Recreation Department, more than 135,000 people visited the park in the past year, making it one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the region.
The Bill Dance Signature Lakes program represents a collaboration among TWRA, Tennessee State Parks, and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Together, they aim to make Tennessee the heart of sport fishing while boosting tourism and economic activity across the state.
BoardSafe Docks is honored to be part of the initiative and act as designer, engineer, and manufacturer of the gangways, floating courtesy boat docks, fishing piers, and kayak launches affiliated with this initiative across the state.
Legendary angler Bill Dance, who inspired the Signature Lakes initiative, emphasized the importance of creating a premier fishing experience with these projects:
“We’ve got to do these improvements with passion and quality, and that’s exactly what BoardSafe’s designs will bring to our waters,” Dance said.
Read more about the Sanders Ferry updates here:
Boat ramp upgraded on Old Hickory Lake – WKRN News 2
New Boat Ramp Opens in Hendersonville’s Sanders Ferry Park – Main Street Media
BoardSafe Docks is an industry leader in designing, engineering, and manufacturing aluminum marine access systems. With a focus on innovation, BoardSafe is known for our expertise, innovative problem-solving, and collaboration with clients to create customized solutions. Our high-quality products, which include adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, floating dock systems, gangways, and pedestrian bridges, are built to withstand challenging environmental conditions.
BoardSafe is committed to accessibility and will guide our customers to create systems that offer universal access and provide accommodations for a wide range of user abilities.
Contact us at BoardSafeDocks and allow us to assist you with improving water access points at your lake, river, or community, or give us a call at 610-899-0286 for your free consultation. #AccessYourAdventure
Verona Borough Improves River Access with BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
Steel City Rowing, Friends of the Riverfront, and Verona Borough in PA just celebrated the launch of something big—Verona’s brand-new BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. The riverfront party and ribbon-cutting ceremony were packed with activities to mark this exciting milestone, kick off the summer, and get things rolling on the river!
The project is a partnership among Friends of the Riverfront, Steel City Rowing Club, and Verona Borough, helping to realize the Friends' Water Trail Management Plan. This project improves access and water recreation on Pittsburgh's three rivers.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony and activities included a guided paddle with Allegheny Land Trust, Yoga by the Water with Be Yoga Oakmont, a Fishing Demonstration with Venture Outdoors, and Food Trucks with Kona Ice and Sharks Grill 412.
The accessible kayak launch was designed, engineered, and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks of Fleetwood, PA. The launch with adaptive features provides universal access to all, and is a valuable addition to the Three Rivers Water Trail, providing river access and enjoyment for everyone looking to get out and paddle the river.
Jenn Langzettel, the Executive Director of Steel City Rowing, said the ADA-accessible launch was an exciting addition to local water recreation. “Steel City Rowing Club is very happy and honored to have been able to work with Friends of the Riverfront and Verona Borough to provide this wonderful resource to the community,” Langzettel said. “Part of our mission here at SCRC is to provide access to the river for all, and this kayak launch will now allow for many individuals who previously have not had the opportunity to comfortably access our beautiful stretch of the Allegheny River,” she added.
Kelsey Ripper, executive director of Friends of the Riverfront, said that expanding the number of ADA-accessible launches on the Three Rivers Water Trail was part of the organization’s longer-term plan. “This launch is another step in Friends’ pursuit of making our trails accessible to all,” Ripper said. “Our region’s beautiful rivers and trails are precious assets, and we hear all the time how much it means to people to be able to use them freely.”
The Verona Accessible Kayak Launch was financed in part by a grant from the Community Conservation Partnerships Program Environmental Stewardship Fund under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, and the Richard King Mellon Foundation grant, both administered through the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers–Ohio Basin Access for Canoes and Kayaks Grant Program and Statewide Watershed Access Grant Program.
Installation completed by Bluewater Docks, Chattanooga, TN
Read more about the ribbon-cutting ceremony here:
BoardSafe Docks is a trusted expert in the design, engineering, and manufacture of aluminum floating docks, especially for accessible and adaptive kayak launches. We have been in the industry for over 20 years and have a strong reputation for quality and innovation.
For more information on improving accessibility to your lake, river, or water trail, contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 or BoardSafeDocks.com.
Beaver Creek Kayak Club Hosts Its Most Successful Flotilla Ever!
At BoardSafe Docks, we’re often asked how developing a water trail impacts communities, and we cannot think of a better example than the Knox County Water Trail on Beaver Creek. Located just outside the city of Knoxville, TN, it started with a dream to create a navigable waterway on Beaver Creek, and has grown into a mission to clear, clean, and care for 44 miles of the creek; an initiative aimed at creating a navigable waterway across five communities.
The Beaver Creek Kayak Club, founded by Charlie Austin, spearheaded the “Float The Beaver” concept. Initially hampered by obstructions, Austin, along with volunteers and government officials, worked diligently to clear the creek. Their efforts improved water quality, brought back wildlife, and reduced flood risks.
Eight years later, the club now boasts over 6,100 members, and celebrated its most successful Flotilla on May 31st. There were over 489 registered paddlers from communities surrounding the creek, many of them first-time paddlers, all joining the excitement because they wanted to be part of what the kayak club had created for its community. The event highlighted the club’s role in connecting paddlers to nature and fostering community spirit.
Collectively, they model an impressive spirit and dedication to preserving the watershed and promoting Beaver Creek as a public water trail. Visit their Facebook page here: Beaver Creek Kayak Club.
The 8th Annual Flotilla, sponsored by Vulcan Materials, saw 489+ paddlers and many spectators enjoying a day of community and camaraderie. The event began at the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch, which is located behind Powell High School and was donated by Aubrey’s Restaurants.
As the participants reached the endpoint, the takeout was at the second BoardSafe Kayak Launch, located at the Roy Arthur Stormwater Park. The launch site has been named Charlie’s Launch, named after Austin’s dedication.
Following the opening ceremony, as paddlers took to the water, the true spirit of the event became obvious. The Flotilla isn’t just about paddling—it’s about community, camaraderie, and conversation. Laughter filled the air as paddlers stopped to photograph the wildlife and picturesque scenery along the way.
Proceeds from the float are dedicated to continuing the improvements on Beaver Creek, including debris clearing, creek bed cleanup and maintenance, and installing additional BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches along the 44-mile trail.
Here’s what some participants had to say about this year’s Flotilla
Participants praised the event’s organization and impact. Paddler Ronald Clemmer noted the creek’s transformation, stating he grew up hunting and fishing in the creek and never imagined it would one day be such a valuable community asset.
Nancy White Engle, a first-timer, shared, “I had the best time! It was my 1st time on Beaver Creek and won't be the last!”
Sponsors, like AFC Urgent Care Powell, highlighted the event's role in preserving the Beaver Creek Water Trail, an essential part of their community, thanking the Beaver Creek Kayak Club, its sponsors, and supporters for keeping the natural gem open and vibrant.
Proceeds from the Flotilla support ongoing improvements to the creek as they work their way down creek with the plan to install additional BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launches about every 5–6 miles along the creek, ending at Melton Hill Lake.
Extreme Jet Skis, Kayaks & Paddleboard Rentals remarked, “We are so thankful to be a part of this Flotilla! Thank you to Beaver Creek Kayak Club, Legacy Parks Foundation, Knox County Parks & Rec, River Sports Outfitters, & all the wonderful volunteers that helped make this the best & biggest event ever!”
Water trails benefit communities through environmental stewardship, connection to nature, creating social connections, encouraging health and wellness through outdoor recreation, and providing economic impact to communities. BoardSafe launch sites ensure universal access to all looking to get out and paddle with family and friends. and support the creation of paddle trails.
Call BoardSafe at 610-899-0286 or visit us at BoardSafeDocks.com and allow us to guide you in creating a paddle trail in your community.