2024 Tennessee RiverLine Summit Presented by BoardSafe Docks
BoardSafe Docks is pleased to partner with the Tennessee RiverLine to support the development of North America’s next great regional trail system.
The 2024 Summit is happening now at the Lodge at Pickwick Landing in Hardin County, TN.
The interactive forum offers planning sessions, outdoor excursions, water trail workshops, accessibility awareness, and networking opportunities.
Tennessee RiverLine’s vision of a continuous water trail experience begins where the Tennessee River forms in Knoxville, TN, to its confluence with the Ohio River in Paducah, KY. It includes 652 miles of paddle trails and touches the four states of Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and Kentucky. Improving accessibility to the Tennessee River is a dream for anyone who enjoys kayaking, canoeing, and spending time on the water. Their full vision is laid out in the booklet here: Tennessee RiverLine Vision Booklet.pdf
Accessible recreation by BoardSafe
The desire for accessible recreation in and by the water offers new economic opportunities, encourages ecological stewardship and conservation, draws people to the water, and promotes better health for its citizens. Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities connect people to their communities. The advantage of ensuring that entry points offer universal access ensures that paddlers with disabilities and mobility limitations can be included in activities along with family and friends. Educating others about universal access has become a significant part of BoardSafe’s Mission. Our goal is to assist others in understanding that “accessible” is not synonymous with “adaptive.” Paddlers with physical disabilities and mobility limitations require additional adaptive features to enter their kayaks and get out on the water. When BoardSafe’s Kayak Launch was designed, BoardSafe’s team collaborated with a group of paddlers in wheelchairs who provided input into the launch’s features. These meetings ensured the necessary features were not overlooked and would be developed to the extent necessary to provide the accommodations paddlers in wheelchairs require for safe entry into their vessels. Equitable access ensures all paddlers may enjoy the beauty, diversity, and history of the Tennessee River and beyond.
What makes BoardSafe unique?
BoardSafe’s unique applications for improving accessibility with their adaptive features, paired with the design integrity of their floating dock system, continue to make them the industry leader and expert in accessibility for all. Ultimately, the user experience is improved for everyone who uses their launch systems for kayaking or fishing.
BoardSafe’s manufacturing takes place in Fleetwood, PA, but as a licensed contractor in Tennessee, they have a strong presence helping to improve accessibility with their adaptive kayak launches and fishing piers. Their pedestrian bridges, gangways, and rowing docks also improve access points throughout the state.
Representing BoardSafe Docks at RiverLine’s Summit are Tom Warchol, a BoardSafe Partner, Kelly Bealls from the Business Development Team, and Bill Bogdan, an adaptive sports enthusiast who has partnered with BoardSafe to share the important message about universal access for all.
Helping non-disabled people gain a better understanding of the features required for inclusive fishing and paddling is necessary because, all too often, launches are built and deemed to be accessible when they’re not. When a paddler in a wheelchair can enter their vessel safely and with minimal assistance, their experience is life-changing. The paddling experience is improved for the adaptive paddler as well as those kayaking with them. Here is a video of Bill using BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch independently: Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Chaminwood
Accessibility in the outdoors
Tennessee RiverLine is a catalyst for new investments in outdoor recreation and infrastructure that will create jobs and stimulate the economy. Successful paddle trails should ensure proper accessibility that includes features for paddlers in wheelchairs. Paddling and kayak fishing are a great part of their rehabilitation and exercise routine and it gets them out on the water with everyone else.
When accessibility is at the forefront of the design process, the paddling experience will be improved for all users. Communities investing in accessible infrastructure will benefit economically and ecologically, will improve public health, and draw more people to the water.
BoardSafe prides itself on developing a trusting and respectful relationship with our clients throughout the manufacturing process. Our team understands our products’ impact on communities and has witnessed our product designs improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities we serve. We are proud of the partnerships we develop with our customers and appreciate the opportunity to develop our customers’ visions and turn them into legacies of waterfront inclusivity for generations to come. Through the power of partnerships and collaborative planning, great things are happening in Tennessee!
BoardSafe Docks is the industry leader in adaptive kayak launches and fishing piers, gangways and pedestrian bridges, rowing centers, and marinas. We specialize in design consultation, engineering, and manufacturing, and will work with you to ensure your project is accessible to the widest range of users. You may learn more about BoardSafe Dock’s projects through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com or by calling 610-899-0286.
Shawnee Mission Park Marina Upgrades: Easy Access to Canoes, Kayaks Debuted at Popular Johnson County Park
Have you seen Shawnee Mission Park Marina’s updates? The largest park in Johnson County and the most visited park in the entire state of Kansas has reopened after a $1.6 million renovation.
The popular marina at Johnson County’s Shawnee Mission Park opened last summer after undergoing extensive renovations that began in November of 2022. The popular new features include a massive new ADA-accessible dock, a new ticketing booth, dock-level bathrooms, upgraded security cameras, and a storage facility for the marina’s 85 boats.
The final addition to the park’s impressive amenities is a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. Visitors can rent kayaks, tandem kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats to launch into the lake. The inclusive features offered by BoardSafe’s kayak launch provide all paddlers with a steady platform to enter and exit their boats.
The feature-rich launch provides universal access with its ADA gangway, tiered, step-down boarding bench, a roll-cage offering an overhead grab bar, grab straps to lower oneself into their vessel, and a stabilizing kayak chute with pull bars for a stable entry onto the water. Everyone knows that getting in and out of a kayak is often the most challenging part of kayaking. BoardSafe’s inclusive features improve the user experience for everyone—young and old, novice and experienced, paddlers with mobility limitations, and even paddlers in wheelchairs.
Long-term planning and preparation paid off
The project cost was approved as part of the county’s capital improvement plan for 2022. However, the marina improvements serve as part of the department’s long-term Shawnee Mission Park Master Plan, which dates back to 2003. Johnson County cares about its community and is committed to achieving its long-term goal of providing a state-of-the-art, inclusive recreation facility for the community.
What’s new at the park?
The park had an aging marina and storage building. The new building underwent significant improvements for accessibility. The improvement project also included the addition of new restrooms and a customer service counter. The park offers a lake, beach, beach house, marina, and floating docks for boating, paddling, and fishing.
The aquatic manager for the Johnson County Park and Recreation District reported that thousands of boaters use the marina’s rental services each season, and they are fortunate to bring the best to their community. High rates of usage support how facilities such as these are important draws for communities. Close-to-home recreation brings communities together and provides inclusive recreation for all, no matter the ability or disability.
Paddling builds inclusive communities and improves quality of life
As the county better accommodates all visitors, many local leaders have recognized the popularity of paddling and the need to provide safe and convenient access in and out of the water. BoardSafe’s well-known inclusive adaptive kayak launch allows people in wheelchairs to safely transition into their kayak and get out on the water. The launch system has been designed and engineered with input from adaptive paddlers to identify features that will improve the paddling experience for all users and ensure that family and friends can paddle together.
Economic benefits of building an accessible kayak launch
- Promotes tourism A kayak launch can attract tourists to the area and increase annual visitors to the trail. Visitor spending will increase revenue to shops, restaurants, gas stations, and hotels and appeal to nature, history, and culture enthusiasts.
- Job creation The construction and operation of the kayak launch can contribute to the economic development of the community by creating jobs for residents, such as construction workers, small business owners, kayak rental operators, and paddling guides. River and lake communities attract and retain skilled workers and businesses. Economic development inspires entrepreneurship and generates tax revenues for municipalities and states.
- Increases property value Inclusive access to a kayak launch can increase property values in the area, which can benefit local property owners and help spur economic development. Homeowners desire close-to-home recreation and are looking to connect with friends, family, and nature through outdoor recreation.
- Offers inclusive water access An accessible kayak launch will encourage more people to participate in outdoor activities on the water. An inclusive launch brings family and friends together and offers a healthy activity for people with mobility limitations and disabilities. As more disabled paddling groups look for recreational opportunities, a fully inclusive launch will draw adaptive paddlers to the water. In turn, this will benefit the local economy by promoting spending on outdoor gear, related activities, and services.
- Offers increased recreational opportunities An accessible kayak launch can provide new recreational opportunities for residents, which can improve the overall quality of life in a community. A gentle paddle down the river and sightseeing through calm waters on lakes offer associated health benefits and improve the overall quality of life.
- Environmental benefits Accessible kayak launches can benefit the environment by helping to protect local waterways and wildlife by maintaining the health of our most valuable natural and cultural resource.
Working together achieved results
For this extensive project, the Johnson County Parks and Recreation Department worked with design firm SFS Architecture on the project’s concept design. BoardSafe was brought into the planning for their experience and expertise in designing and building accessible floating docks. They understand the impact projects like these have on communities. With over 30 years of construction experience and 20+ years as the industry leader in dock designing, engineering, and manufacturing, BoardSafe knows that each location and installation presents distinct challenges. Water flows, tidal fluctuations, and environmental and habitat considerations, all need to be considered
when selecting the optimal dock configuration for each site. How the products fasten to the shore must allow for movement under varying marine and traffic usages. These variations—as well as ecological considerations—are carefully calculated.
BoardSafe has designed over 20 different launch configurations that can be customized to their customer’s launch site, which makes BoardSafe stand out in the marine industry.
Click here to view the 20 different kayak launch layouts that will affect pricing.
For this particular project, launch option #2 was selected with a 4 x 20 single rail gangway and a 20’ kayak chute. BoardSafe takes pride in knowing we put our customers on the right path to obtaining the best launch configuration for their site.
BoardSafe was pleased to help Shawnee Mission Park achieve their accessibility goals. To learn more about the most durable and accessible aluminum floating launch system for your location, contact BoardSafeDocks.com today at 610-899-0286. BoardSafe’s team will help you find the ideal solution for improved accessibility to and around the water.
Customer Service and Experience Put BoardSafe Ahead of the Rest
Are you scouring the Internet looking for a kayak launch that is truly accessible—one designed with input from paddlers in wheelchairs?
Are you in search of a kayak launch that is structurally sound, durable, and won’t get washed away in the first flood or demolished by a high wind storm?
Do you need help understanding how long your gangway or kayak chute should be? Or what size freeboard you’ll need? Do you understand what size floating dock will work best for your application? Are your stakeholders clear about what to budget for your accessible floating dock system?
Get your questions answered with BoardSafe Docks
If you have questions like these to be answered, BoardSafe Docks is here to help.
BoardSafe takes the time to help you understand the features and factors you need to understand when considering an accessible launch system.
BoardSafe Docks designs, engineers, and manufactures marine access products that positively impact communities. BoardSafe improves accessibility for all paddlers in order to improve everyone’s paddling experience. For paddlers in wheelchairs who require additional adaptive features to enter and exit their vessels, the launch’s inclusive features are life-changing and offer adaptive paddlers the opportunity to be out on the water with family and friends.
BoardSafe’s experience and expertise set us apart from the rest
BoardSafe is not just selling a commodity—We’re selling an experience and creating paddling adventures for those looking to enter their vessel safely and easily. Improving access to water is a big investment in your community, and when it’s done, it should be done correctly. We’re confident about our dock-building experience and our ability to help you find the best solution for your site conditions. It’s worth your time to give us a call.
We frequently hear that our customer service is unmatched by other dock-building companies who are only interested in selling a dock. BoardSafe takes pride in knowing we’ll put you on the right path to obtaining your accessible kayak launch, and that our system will work, customized for your site with one of our many launch configurations illustrated here:
https://20491040.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/20491040/BoardSafe%20Kayak%20Launch%20Layout%20Options.pdf
Learn more about what BoardSafe offers to our customers in this video:
BoardSafe, the one-stop shop for design, construction & installs of adaptive water access equipment.
With over 20 years of experience in the marine access industry, BoardSafe knows and understands what it takes to build structurally sound, durable, maintenance-free marine access products. Because we are industry experts, BoardSafe’s innovative designs and solutions can provide accessible solutions for accessing your waterfront safely and easily. Call us for more information at 610-899-0286 or contact us through our website at BoardSafeDocks.com.
NJASLA Annual Meeting Conference on January 28-30, 2024
BoardSafe Docks invites you to join us at the NJASLA Annual Meeting Conference on January 28-30, 2024 at Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center in Atlantic City, NJ!
This year’s theme “ASLA125: Past + Future”, celebrates the rich legacy of the American Society of Landscape Architects and embraces innovations for the years ahead. The annual conference creates a unique atmosphere of learning, inspiration, and connections to lead the way for the future of landscape architecture.
Please stop by the Premier Sponsor Booth in the exhibit hall to meet the team from BoardSafe Docks. We look forward to seeing you there!
REGISTER TODAY! IT’S ONLY 5 DAYS AWAY! NJASLA 2024 - CONEXSYS Registration
Orange Park, FL, and BoardSafe Docks Foster Inclusive Water Recreation with Accessible and Adaptive Kayak Launch
January 17, 2024: Rob Bradley Park in Orange Park, FL, and BoardSafe Docks, a leading innovator in waterfront access solutions, are proud to announce the installation of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. This state-of-the-art launch offers unparalleled access to all paddlers and is designed to include paddlers in wheelchairs or with other mobility limitations, ensuring that everyone can experience the joy of kayaking and canoeing with family and friends.
Rob Bradley Conservation Park was deeded to the Town of Orange Park in December 2019. The plan is to preserve the beautiful park and help protect the water quality along the lake. The park officially opened in 2023 after receiving grant funds to add and improve park amenities. Culverts, sewer connections, nature trails, restrooms, observation areas, and an accessible kayak launch are all on the list to help conserve the park and preserve its natural setting. The local town is committed to using taxpayer money in a manner that will benefit its residents by offering close-to-home recreational amenities. The town’s Park and Recreation Department and Public Works will work together to maintain the park’s setting and keep it safe and clean for their community. The beauty of the park and its natural amenities will be enjoyed by all Orange Park residents for many years to come.
BoardSafe’s accessible launch is a testament to its team’s commitment to providing the highest quality product, from design through manufacturing. Their inclusive launch system provides a gateway to water-based recreation for individuals who previously faced barriers due to physical limitations. Orange Park is excited to offer this accessible amenity to their community. The key features of the launch include:
- ADA-Compliant Gangway—ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility aids such as wheelchairs.
- Kayak Chute—facilitating a smooth and safe entry of kayaks and canoes into the water.
- Step-Down Boarding Bench—allowing users to guide themselves down a slightly-sloped, 4-step bench to transfer into their kayak or canoe with a minimal drop into their vessel.
- Overhead Grab Bars, Grab Straps, and Side Pull Bars—additional supportive features that assist users while boarding and disembarking their vessels, and enhance safe and stable entry and exit to and from the water.
BoardSafe’s innovative design empowers individuals to embark on water adventures with independence and freedom, fostering a sense of inclusion within the community.
"We are thrilled to introduce the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch to Orange Park," said Scott Tihansky, Design and Engineering at BoardSafe. "Our goal is to break down barriers and ensure that everyone can access and enjoy paddling on the water, regardless of ability. This launch is a game-changer, and provides a safe and user-friendly platform for individuals with varying needs to experience the thrill of kayaking and canoeing."
The Town of Orange Park encourages its community to explore and experience the ease of use and increased accessibility offered by BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch. Whether used by seasoned paddlers or beginners, this launch promises an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all.
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 Contributes to Archie Glover Boat Ramp Improvement Project in Santa Rosa County, FL
BoardSafe Docks was pleased to be part of the Archie Glover Boat Ramp Improvement Project in Santa Rosa County, Florida. BoardSafe’s contribution brings accessibility to all and allows kayakers who wish to enjoy the accessible and adaptive amenities the chance to get out on the water with everyone else.
Improvements include the renovation of the existing restroom, improved parking facilities, replacement of one courtesy dock, and installation of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch.
Coastal Partnership Initiative Funds, Florida Boating Improvement Program grants, boater registration fees, and local option sales tax provided funding for the improvements.
Watch the project video here: https://fb.watch/po20t8dWsq/
For more information about BoardSafe’s products and services, contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 or through our website at BoardSafe Docks.com. If you’re looking for ideas on making your marina, boat ramp, or shoreline more accessible to your users, BoardSafe will have a solution.
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.
Happy Thanksgiving from BoardSafe Docks!
As we prepare to celebrate the season of Thanksgiving and reflect on the blessings of the past year, BoardSafe Docks would like to recognize our customers for their patronage, loyalty, and trust. We are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve customers who have allowed us to transform many waterfronts into areas that provide accessibility for all.
BoardSafe prides itself on unmatched customer service paired with the highest quality of design, engineering, and manufacturing services. We are truly blessed with our BoardSafe family and have grown a multi-faceted team dedicated to our customers and the communities we serve. Our many years of experience, and the significant solutions we’ve offered to the marine industry, have allowed us to be recognized as the premier manufacturer of durable, sustainable, and accessible marine products.
This Thanksgiving and always, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our customers for allowing us to carry out our vision of changing lives and transforming communities with products that provide universal access. BoardSafe’s Team wishes you all a safe and blessed Thanksgiving!
With Gratitude and Appreciation from the Team at BoardSafe Docks
Adaptive Kayaking Is Not One-Size-Fits-All, and Neither Is a BoardSafe Dock
BoardSafe’s Accessible Kayak Launch provides universal access with over 20 possible launch configurations to meet your site’s specifications. BoardSafe’s design experts will evaluate your site conditions and recommend a launch system that keeps you and all our customers at the center of the design process. A BoardSafe Accessible Kayak and Canoe Launch creates a positive user experience with its functional, sustainable, and durable design. View some of our configurations here.
Other dock companies may attempt to copy BoardSafe’s Adaptive and Accessible Kayak Launch, but BoardSafe’s proven history and experience as a trusted expert will ensure you're getting the best kayak launch on today’s market. Click here to learn how our launch system transforms the user experience: Kayak Launch at Lake Chaminwood. For more information on improving accessibility at your lake, stream, or water access point, contact us at our website, BoardSafeDocks.com, or call us at 610-89-0286.