Accessibility Brings Canal Experience to Everyone
BoardSafe Docks was excited to participate in the NYS Canals Forum, “Accessibility on the Canalway,” at Monroe Community College, in Rochester, NY, where more than 170 people participated.
Tom Warchol of BoardSafe discussed accessible kayaking opportunities on the canal and their benefits to paddlers of all abilities. Rivertowns that invest in universal access kayak launches experience economic benefits that boost economies because scenic canals and historical waterways draw tourists. Universal access includes everyone and opens doors to outdoor recreation for people who may have been excluded from participating in the past.
The accessibility forum was open to municipal leaders, community planners, developers, and anyone interested in learning about improving access along the historic canal system. Its goal is to ensure that paddlers of all abilities have the full canal experience and ensure that paddlers with disabilities and mobility limitations can safely and easily access recreation opportunities near and on the water.
In 2025, the Erie Canal will be celebrating its 200th anniversary, and NYS is looking to support businesses and municipalities in making the historic Canal accessible to all. Read more about the forum: Celebration of 200 years on Erie Canal ensures accessible recreation for the future.
BoardSafe Docks is happy to be part of the canal’s accessibility story with our Adaptive Kayak Launch designed to include paddlers of all abilities and improve the paddling experience for all people who enjoy paddling on the canalway. To learn more about BoardSafe’s adaptive kayak launch, accessible fishing piers, and other water access products, contact BoardSafe Docks for more information at 610-899-0286.
Lehigh Valley Style Magazine: Accessible Outdoors Benefits Everyone
BoardSafe Docks is pleased to be recognized in Lehigh Valley Style Magazine as an option for accessible recreation for people of all abilities.
Cindy Ross, author, and her husband, Todd Gladfelter, an adaptive outdoor enthusiast, appreciate the adaptive features in BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch and Accessible Fishing Pier at Leaser Lake in Kempton, PA.
Cindy recognizes the need to improve accessibility to the great outdoors. She acknowledges Leaser Lake, Hawk Mountain, and other local trails for creating access to nature for everyone who wishes to participate in outdoor recreation.
One in four Americans lives with a disability; that’s 61 million people and one million people who require a wheelchair. Disabilities often keep people at home, but recent studies have recognized the therapeutic value of time spent in nature. You may read Cindy’s article here: Discover Why Accessible Nature is a Win for All.
Benefits of Investing in a BoardSafe Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch
It's a common misconception that an accessible kayak launch is ONLY intended for people with mobility impairments. The truth is that an accessible launch benefits the entire community and assists people of all abilities with accessing the water. Able-bodied paddlers love an accessible launch because it offers a simple and dry way to enter the water. BoardSafe’s launch also helps novice paddlers and families with young children learn how to enter a kayak and paddle safely. The accessibility features also benefit people with minor impairments, such as a bad knee or hip.
How does the launch attract more paddlers?
BoardSafe Docks recently installed a launch in Canton, New York. When we asked the parks director how the launch affected kayaking at that site, she reported that the new accessible launch increased their park’s visitation by a factor of 3. Entering and exiting kayaks and canoes and launching them into the water is often the most difficult part of the sport. When a launch system offers safe and stable entry to the water, it appeals to its users and enhances the paddling experience for people who use the launch. It also keeps them coming back.
Nearly 20% of the U.S. population live with a form of disability, and approximately 12% live with a mobility disability. This is a sizable portion of our population who still want to enjoy recreating on the water with family and friends. This is why the features of the BoardSafe launch have such an appeal.
Economic benefits of BoardSafe’s accessible and adaptive kayak launch
BoardSafe was recently asked how new paddle craft launches and access points impact the local economies. This link points to several resources that provide statistics and studies on the economic benefits of water trails.
Water trails boost local economy
Included in the above link is a PowerPoint presentation by the Georgia River Network. Its message does a nice job of discussing the “Granola Myth.” This myth addresses the perception that new infrastructure (like a kayak launch) offers little in return to the community; implying that people using the launch are packing their granola, water, etc., and not spending money in local communities. However, the facts are that, on average, $55 is spent per person for kayakers and canoers (Reference the Ohio Census data). The statistic was mirrored in a study conducted by the New York State Canals Corporation on kayakers visiting the Erie Canal. The number increases from $55 to nearly $250 for out-of-town visitors.
The OIA Report is a national report that provides statistics for all types of outdoor industry recreation, revenue, and jobs created by outdoor sports. It is worth taking a look at their statistics on economic impact because the report breaks this information down by state.
Three reasons inclusive water trails are important
- Including underserved groups and paddlers with disabilities improves access for everyone.
- When more people have great places to go that meet their unique needs, there is bound to be less conflict among different types of trail users.
- The process of developing inclusive water trails is an excellent investment in building a vibrant, healthy, cohesive community.
The investment in an accessible kayak launch—particularly one built of aluminum, composite, non-polluting flotation, and stainless steel—will pay dividends to communities for years to come.
BoardSafe is a leading provider of innovative access solutions that specializes in the design, fabrication, and installation of floating docks, gangways, pedestrian bridges, adaptive kayak launches, and accessible fishing piers that promote accessibility and inclusivity for waterfront activities.
Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 for more information on your solution for inclusive access with universal design features. Our Adaptive Kayak Launch with features specific to persons with disabilities will serve your whole community. Its universal design will enhance your waterfront and provide access to all people who wish to get out and paddle with family and friends.
BoardSafe Docks Continues to Inform and Educate About Accessibility
Local and regional governments and public and private organizations overseeing waterways are recognizing the need for, and actively supporting, programs to provide access to the waters for people with mobility challenges.
As these organizations plan facilities for all of their citizens or members, they look for input from various experts in design, engineering, and installation, as well as financing, site evaluation, civic planning, and ecological impact. BoardSafe Docks works with planners and other experts to design, manufacture, and install their innovative, durable, ADA-compliant, accessible aluminum floating docks, kayak launches, and other products.
As we seek to meet, inspire, and educate public and private organizations, we attend conferences during the year to make connections that benefit adaptive sports enthusiasts and the communities in which they live.
Upcoming Conferences—Come and Meet Us!
- BoardSafe will be attending the upcoming Wisconsin Lakes and Rivers Convention. April 10–12. https://www3.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/
UWEXLakes/Pages/programs/ convention/default.aspx - Kelly Beals will attend on behalf of BoardSafe and will have a sponsorship table.
- BoardSafe will be attending and sponsoring the upcoming NYS Canals Forum "Accessible Recreation on the Canalway" April 10th. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/
accessible-recreation-on-the- canalway-tickets-845952164697? aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid= IwAR05Bz8yxxGJ980fOzOElnUEGaDz g8XxoM_sfOBu19deje_05hIXvcMuI_ w - Tom Warchol will attend and will have a BoardSafe table.
- BoardSafe will be attending and speaking at the upcoming PE-DE ASLA Meeting in SkyTop, PA, April 11th. https://na.eventscloud.com/
website/44167/conference- speakers/ - Tom Warchol will attend and speak on the subject of "Providing Accessibility for All Abilities."
- BoardSafe will be attending and sponsoring the Great Miami Riverway Summit, April 19th in Piqua, OH. https://www.
greatmiamiriverway.com/blog- entry/2024riverwaysummit - Kelly Beals will attend on behalf of BoardSafe and will have a sponsorship table.
Check back often for more opportunities to meet our crew and learn about how you can open up your waterways to friends and families of all abilities!
BoardSafe Docks Is Hiring!
Anticipated openings for:
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General Laborers and Experienced Carpenters
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Certified Welders
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Draftsmen proficient in SolidWorks to assist our current Drafting Team
Are you looking to impact people’s lives and improve communities? Are you interested in creating and improving recreational access to waterways? Do you want to work with a committed and professional team? BoardSafe is looking for candidates who will contribute to designing, manufacturing, and creating solutions for improving accessibility for all who wish to access the water.
View some of our project videos:
Safety on the Water Beyond a BoardSafe Dock
The popularity of paddlesports continues to grow as more and more people take up paddling. Paddlesports are a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, have some fun, and stay in shape. Paddling is a popular recreational activity that family and friends can enjoy together. BoardSafeDocks has designed an inclusive launch system that gets people of all abilities into the water safely—however, safety continues beyond launching your vessel into the water.
Tips for a successful paddling experience
Many factors can turn a pleasant paddling experience into a dangerous situation. There are many steps you can take to ensure a safe paddling experience. Some of the most common tips for a successful experience are listed here:
- Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. They are proven lifesavers. One of the biggest reasons people take their life jacket off is because they find it uncomfortable to kayak with. This is why it's worth investing in a kayaking-specific life jacket that is designed to be comfortable and less restrictive when paddling.
- Check the weather in advance of your paddle trip. Getting caught in inclement weather will ruin your experience. Plus, it’s always best to dress for immersion, just in case.
- Create a float plan. Travel with a companion or group. Plan your trip with a map before departing and advise someone you trust of your plans, your route, your launch and take-out site(s), boat description, and estimated times of departure and arrival.
- Be prepared. Always carry plenty of water and food to stay fueled and hydrated. Dress appropriately. Wear quick-dry clothing and proper water shoes. Bring a basic first aid and repair kit, bilge pump, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug repellant.
- Know that most people paddle two to three river miles per hour; however, water levels can speed up or slow down a trip. Water levels change from season to season and with little notice due to rain events. Even the most experienced should take caution, considering low bridge heights above water. Droughts will also affect your experience. Dams, jams, and other obstructions may require portaging. Be aware of river obstructions such as overhanging branches or dead trees under water that may not be visible. These obstructions, as well as powercrafts, can flip a watercraft, so learn reentry and practice it in a controlled environment.
- Be aware of power boats and other fast-moving watercraft, reduce proximity to power boats, and be cautious if near them.
- Protect the water and shorelands. Remember that much of the shorelands are privately owned.
- Most importantly, be aware of your abilities and limitations and be sure to paddle within your skill level. When paddling in a group, never paddle beyond the abilities of your weakest paddler.
The 5 most common mistakes made by kayakers
Here are some of the most common mistakes made by all paddlers that affect the paddling experience.
- Mistake #1: Launching in dangerous water
- Mistake #2: Attempting busy waterways
- Mistake #3: Choosing uncomfortable weather
- Mistake #4: Overextending or overconfidence
- Mistake #5: Using gear improperly
Improving safety awareness
A successful river trip is a safe river trip. BoardSafe Docks’ Adaptive Kayak Launch changes lives, improves the user experience for all paddlers, and impacts communities. Part of our mission is to educate our customers about our safe launch system; however, also understanding the importance of safe practices on the water will enhance the user experience and keep people coming back. For more safety information, the American Canoe Association has a detailed PaddleSport Safety Information link below:
For more than 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, marinas, rowing centers, adaptive kayak launches, gangways, stationary and floating fishing piers, 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.
The Fabulous Fox! River Summit Is Only 2 Days Away!
The Fox River Summit is an annual gathering of organizations, municipalities, citizens, and stakeholders across the Fox River Watershed. Building partnerships and developing an open dialog about the issues important to managing the watershed is a key component of the summit. The program features speakers and presentations highlighting these issues, and it’s also an opportunity to celebrate the success stories along the Fox River.
Tom Warchol, BoardSafe Partner, will present information on “The Value of Investing in Universal Access Kayak Launches for Paddlers with Disabilities.”
BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch provides access to adaptive paddlers and allows them to leave their wheelchairs behind and paddle with family and friends.
Wisconsin and Illinois have partnered with the National Park Service to create the Fabulous Fox! River Water Trail. A list of access sites (by community or keyword) to the water trail is available at this link: Access Sites - Fabulous Fox! Water Trail. The site offers information about the trail, maps, itineraries, and all you need to plan an amazing day on the water.
BoardSafeDocks hopes to meet you Thursday, March 14, at Veterans Terrace, Echo Park, Burlington, WI. A complete list of featured speakers and topics for the summit is listed here: 2024 Fox River Summit.
Click here to register: southeastfoxriver.org.
2 BoardSafe Docks on Knox County Water Trail on Beautiful Beaver Creek
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. BoardSafe Docks designed, built, and installed two Accessible Kayak Launches.
Beaver Creek ADA Accessible Drop-In Locations:
2136 W Emory Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37849
7221 Harrell Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37931
Read more about this exciting BoardSafe project: BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launches “Huge Asset” to Beaver Creek, TN, Project
BoardSafe is a leading provider of innovative access solutions that specializes in the design, fabrication, and installation of floating docks, gangways, pedestrian bridges, adaptive kayak launches, and accessible fishing piers that promote accessibility and inclusivity for waterfront activities.
For information, inquiries, or to schedule a phone or Zoom consultation, please contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 or through their website @ BoardSafeDocks.com.
BoardSafe Docks Presents at Fox River Summit, Burlington, WI
BoardSafeDocks invites you to join us at the 2024 Fox River Summit on Thursday, March 14, 2024, in Burlington, WI.
Tom Warchol, BoardSafe Partner, will present information on “The Value of Investing in Universal Access Kayak Launches for Paddlers with Disabilities.”
Learn how improving accessibility enhances the user experience for all.
Watch here: Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Chaminwood
The Mission of the Fox River Ecosystem Partnership has been to promote, preserve, protect, and enhance the natural, cultural, economic, and recreational resources of Fox River, which flows for almost 200 miles from Wisconsin into Illinois. It’s an annual gathering of organizations, municipalities, citizens, and stakeholders across the Fox River Watershed.
In 2023, the National Park Service recognized the Fabulous Fox! Water Trail as part of the National Water Trails System.
More information about the water trail is available here: The Fabulous Fox! Water Trail Website
Information and Registration are Now Open: southeastfoxriver.org
If you’re interested in learning more about water trails, mark March 14, 2024, on your calendar and join us at the Summit!
BoardSafe Docks Recognizes New Team Members
Kelly Beals, a New Business Development Team Member, joined BoardSafe Docks in October 2022. Kelly has extensive experience in non-profit fundraising, grant proposal writing and award management, capital campaign coordination, relationship building, stewardship, and solicitation. In her role as a member of the BoardSafe Docks Business Development Team, Kelly conducts research to identify potential customers that would benefit from BoardSafe’s products and services; builds and maintains relationships with potential customers; operationalizes strategies to achieve business goals; and collaborates with the Business Development Team to ensure alignment with BoardSafe’s overall business development objectives.
Kelly represented BoardSafe Docks as an exhibitor at the Ohio Riverway Summit, Tennessee RiverLine, Legacy Parks Foundation Luncheon for the Parks, SOBA Education and Training Symposium, and ASLA and NRPA conferences.
Kelly is often the first communicator with BoardSafe’s prospective clients and will assist them with finding possible grants to help fund adaptive kayak launches, fishing piers, and accessible water access products like gangways, pedestrian bridges, marinas, and rowing docks. Kelly has shown success in her new position by qualifying many of our new customers and clients, answering their questions, and coordinating sales meetings involving multiple stakeholders for the initial design and project planning. BoardSafe Docks prides itself on individualized customer service, consultation, and collaboration. Kelly's customer support is a big part of why BoardSafe is recognized as a trusted, respected, and responsive dock manufacturer in the marine industry.
Fun Fact About Kelly Kelly was born and raised in upstate New York and has been a Denver, Colorado, resident since 2015. Outside of work, you can find Kelly traveling, camping, taking motorcycle rides, eating good food, and loving on her fur babies.
Kelly can be reached at [email protected].
BoardSafeDocks also welcomes Brian Caldwell, Operations Manager, who joined BoardSafe Docks in September 2023. Brian has over 27 years of experience in the welding gas and fastener industry. The majority of his extensive experience has been working as a product line manager and territory manager. Brian’s responsibilities at BoardSafe include managing the day-to-day manufacturing and shop operations, supervising the manufacturing team, internal process improvement, and procurement of product materials and components. Brian is often the in-house communicator with our trucking companies, customers, and installers when coordinating the shipping and receiving of our adaptive kayak launches, accessible fishing piers, gangways, pedestrian bridges, and floating dock systems. Brian has already led improvement to our internal process and positively impacted internal efficiencies. BoardSafe is happy to have him as a part of our growing team.
Something to know about Brian Away from BoardSafe, you will find Brian working on many projects around his fishing cabin. He likes to relax by fly fishing, watching college football, and hanging out by the fire, next to the creek, along with his wife and dog—contemplating where a BoardSafe kayak launch and fishing pier may fit in!
Brian can be reached at [email protected].