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.
BoardSafe Docks Honors Our Veterans
As Veterans Day approaches, BoardSafe Docks would like to recognize our veterans for their sacrifice and service to our country. It’s crucial to support the military and our veterans wherever and whenever they need us. Veterans Day ensures they know their service is important to us, recognized, and valued.
On Veterans Day and every day, BoardSafe Docks ensures that disabled veterans have proper access to kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, and have the ability to access and enter the water as safely and easily as they deserve.
History of BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch and its features
BoardSafeDocks developed its Adaptive Kayak Launch after being approached by the Leaser Lake Heritage Foundation, the Kempton Area Lions Club, and a group of adaptive paddlers who were using their lake for adaptive paddling events. They were looking to make the lake more accessible for paddlers in wheelchairs who presented themselves with varied needs and paddling abilities. The adaptive paddlers and the volunteer group that supported them reported that more often than not, they struggled to get their paddlers in and out of their kayaks and safely out onto the water.
Working in collaboration with the adaptive paddling group, BoardSafe Docks identified the barriers they were facing and created solutions to help them gain access to the water using adaptive features that would support their safety and independence.
With their help and input, BoardSafe Docks was able to design and manufacture an adaptive kayak launch that offers paddlers and veterans with disabilities the ability to get out on the water with everyone else.
The paddlers who offered feedback were affiliated with many adaptive paddling groups, and paddle along with Team River Runner, Wounded Warriors, Veteran Non-Profit | Paddle for Heroes, and Disabled Kayaking Enthusiasts groups. All too often they would arrive at paddle sites that were deemed to be accessible but were unable to enter their vessels or launch their kayaks. Barriers were not removed and features were not developed to the extent necessary for them to paddle along with family and friends.
During collaborative sessions, BoardSafe Docks learned that true accessibility starts at the parking lot with
- parking spaces identified for individuals with disabilities.
- paved egress to the paddle launch.
- an ADA gangway and chute.
- a floating dock large enough for wheelchairs to maneuver.
- a step-down boarding bench.
- a roll cage that includes overhead grab bars, grab straps, and pull bars.
- a secure launching cradle that provides stability for the kayak during both entry and exit.
Adaptive paddlers and disabled veterans often find new freedom in being able to propel around the water in a way they can’t on land. Working together with them, BoardSafe was able to identify and remove barriers while adding additional features to their launch system that offer these paddlers the freedom that many thought they lost.
Adaptive paddling is not a one-size-fits-all sport
Not all kayak launches are the same, and not all kayak launches work for all paddlers. BoardSafe has learned that other launches are often designed incorrectly, contain barriers that have not been removed, or lack features adaptive paddlers need to access their kayaks and the water. Most importantly, accessible and adaptive launches must be tested by adaptive paddlers to ensure they will work for paddlers in wheelchairs.
A kayak launch is a big investment; therefore, customers must educate themselves and be aware of the specific support needed by the paddlers who will be using their launch. Customers should also be aware of the features and options offered by the launch system they are investigating, as well as the limitations of the launch they are considering.
BoardSafe Docks takes pride in ensuring our system provides accessibility for the widest range of paddlers, making theirs the most accessible kayak launch on today’s market. Those investing in a kayak launch should know BoardSafe’s launch may not be the right fit if the paddlers using the launch require a Hoyer lift or lack at least some upper body strength. BoardSafe’s Adaptive Kayak Launch is a good fit for amputees, paddlers with lower-body paralysis, joint replacement, arthritis, and a wide range of lower-body physical impairments or mobility limitations. Almost everyone can use it!
The benefits of a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch
Accessibility Docks equipped with ramps, handrails, and slip-resistant surfaces ensure that veterans with mobility challenges can easily access and launch kayaks. This accessibility feature can make the experience more inclusive and enjoyable.
Safety Sturdy docks with proper railings and non-slip surfaces enhance safety, allowing veterans to embark and disembark from kayaks with confidence. Safety is paramount, especially for individuals with varying physical abilities.
Convenience Well-designed docks can streamline the process of getting in and out of kayaks. Veterans may have specific needs due to injuries or disabilities, and having a dock that caters to these needs can significantly improve their overall experience.
Supportive community Docks that are designed with inclusivity in mind can foster a sense of community among kayakers, including veterans. This supportive environment can encourage veterans to engage in kayaking as a social activity, promoting mental and emotional well-being.
Training and assistance Docks that cater to veterans may offer specialized training sessions or assistance programs. This support can be crucial for those who are new to kayaking or need extra help due to physical limitations.
When kayaking equipment requires modifications
When the kayak itself requires adaptations or modifications, BoardSafe Docks works with the design experts from Creating Ability. Their focus is on seating systems, outfitted kayaks, outriggers, transfer benches, seating systems, and hand, wrist, and paddle adaptations.
Beginning in 2004, Creating Ability’s mission has been to make paddling accessible for all. This project produced the Universal Paddling Seat. Since then, Creating Ability has developed and provided fully-outfitted kayaks and adaptations to enable people of all abilities to participate in the sport of adaptive kayaking.
Creating Ability travels thousands of miles annually and volunteers at various events to support persons with disabilities and their families. They provide on-site support, education, and outfitting to enhance the lives of adaptive paddlers and disabled veterans. Their goal continues to be to enhance the experience and provide the freedom and independence the world of paddlesports can bring.
Video: Getting boat from vehicle to water: Adaptive kayak launch makes it easy
The value of paddling for veterans
Kayaking can be fulfilling and life-changing for veterans with disabilities, especially those who may have been paralyzed, have lost limbs, or have experienced mobility challenges as a result of serving their country. The benefits of kayaking are listed below.
Empowerment Kayaking provides veterans with disabilities a sense of empowerment and independence. Being able to navigate the water and control the kayak on their own can boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Physical exercise Kayaking offers a low-impact cardiovascular workout that can improve overall fitness, strength, and flexibility. Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for everyone, especially veterans with disabilities, because it promotes better health and well-being.
Mental and emotional well-being Spending time in nature and engaging in recreational activities like kayaking can have positive effects on mental and emotional well-being. It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, while promoting relaxation and a sense of peace.
Community and social connection Participating in adaptive kayaking programs allows veterans with disabilities to connect with others who share similar challenges. This sense of community and social connection can combat feelings of isolation and provide a supportive network.
Challenging limits Kayaking challenges individuals to push their limits and overcome obstacles. For someone with a disability, mastering the skills needed for kayaking can be a powerful reminder of their abilities, helping them focus on what they can do rather than what they can't.
Therapeutic benefits The rhythmic motion of paddling can have therapeutic effects, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms. Additionally, the water's buoyancy can alleviate pressure on joints and provide a soothing experience.
Sense of adventure Kayaking offers a sense of adventure and exploration. Disabled paddlers can venture into natural environments that might otherwise be inaccessible, providing them with unique experiences and a deeper connection to nature.
Adaptive equipment Specially-designed adaptive kayak launches, adaptive kayaks, and equipment, make it possible for veterans with disabilities to participate in kayaking. These adaptations, such as adaptive kayak and canoe launches, modified seating, stabilizing outriggers, and hand-controlled paddles, ensure a safe and enjoyable experience tailored to their needs.
Overall, kayaking provides a holistic experience that addresses physical, mental, and social aspects of well-being, making it a fulfilling and life-changing activity for paralyzed paddlers, amputees, and veteran paddlers with mobility limitations.
Ways to show appreciation to our veterans
With Veterans Day around the corner, there are many ways to show appreciation to our veterans. To let them know they are valued and appreciated:
- Ask questions about their service. Let them tell their own story. If the veteran is open to talking about military experiences, don’t just say thank you and walk away.
- Have a conversation about what’s going on in the military today—many different websites provide good information.
- Donate to veteran-focused charities.
- Fly the United States flag.
- Send a card or letter to a veteran, an organization, or a VA hospital.
- Visit a VA hospital and get involved. Visit where veterans frequent: the VFW, local Vet Center, American Legion, or local not-for-profit. Veterans organizations are always looking for volunteers. Ask them what they need the most and help meet that demand. Make it so veterans can thank you for your service. That would help all of us be more worthy of their sacrifice.
- Get outdoors with a veteran and join them on a paddle. You’ll be happy you did!
- War is filled with unimaginable atrocities and casualties. It's equally important to acknowledge the incredible strength and resilience it takes to carry on in the midst of crisis and chaos, and the courage it takes to talk about deep pain and emotional turmoil—even 20, 40, or 60+ years later.
BoardSafe Docks understands the life-changing impact getting out on the water has made for the adaptive paddling community. It offers rehabilitation, exercise, and socialization, and provides healthy benefits to one’s mind, body, and spirit. Most importantly, kayaking gives adaptive paddlers an opportunity to be out on the water like everyone else. They describe the freedom of leaving their wheelchairs and transitioning into a kayak as “liberating.”
Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 for more information on the impact you can make on your water access points with a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch or BoardSafe Adaptive Fishing Pier and make a difference in your community and the life of a veteran!
Accessible, Adaptive Kayaking Is Now Available at Scofield Park, MI
The City of Howell, Michigan, is the newest recipient of a BoardSafe Docks Adaptive Kayak Launch. Thompson Lake, located within Scofield Park, is pleased to promote itself as a kayaking destination accessible to enthusiasts of all abilities. The accessible and adaptive launch offers universal access to all and is now open for public use.
The City of Howell went out for public bid for the launch in early March 2023 and was passed by a City Council’s vote in late March. BoardSafe Docks was identified as the lowest bidder and offers a high-quality, aluminum-welded, adaptive kayak launch that is accessible to all. The launch was delivered to the City of Howell in May and was installed by their maintenance crew in mid-August.
Meeting the needs of people with disabilities was a priority in determining which projects they should fund. The new kayak launch uses a series of ramps, handrails, and platforms to assist those having varying mobility needs with launching canoes, kayaks, and other non-motorized watercraft into Thompson Lake. A gently-sloped ramp provides a sturdy avenue for people who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices to access the floating dock. Once on the dock, individuals can place their boat in an underwater saddle that securely holds the watercraft in place while the boater uses overhead support to lower themselves safely into their vessel.
The BoardSafe Adaptive Launch Project included a:
- 20-ft gangway and aluminum kayak chute.
- (2) 8x16 floating docks.
- (1) kayak launch with the Adaptive Boarding Kit that consists of:
- tiered, step-down bench with pull-out seat.
- overhead grab bar with grab straps.
- instructional sign for proper usage.
A link to the city’s Scofield Park and its amenities is available here: Scofield - Explore Brighton Howell Area.
The new, much-anticipated kayak launch with universal access has been installed near the beach area at Thompson Lake.
The new launch will allow people of all abilities to launch their kayaks and bring them back to shore safely and easily. It’s something the community expressed a desire for, that will improve all users’ paddling experience.
In addition to the new launch, other improvements are planned at the park, including new accessible ADA-compliant restrooms and concession facilities. Both bathrooms were ordered in April of this year, with an anticipated delivery date of next April.
Communities who are looking to increase accessibility for all paddlers and considering adding an adaptive kayak and canoe launch to their local lake or stream should click the following link for more information:
Find the Best Adaptive Kayak Launch Site—BoardSafe Docks
Because every site location and application is different, BoardSafe Docks has become the industry expert in location selection, site work, design, engineering, manufacturing, and installation of floating docks, piers, and adaptive kayak and canoe launches.
To discuss your project and learn more about BoardSafe Docks, our specific adaptive features that work for the widest range of users, our durable and long-lasting construction, and long-term maintenance suggestions, please call us at 610-899-0286 or contact us at BoardSafeDocks.com.
BoardSafe Docks—Meet Us Today at the Ohio River Way Summit!
BoardSafe Docks is in Madison, Indiana today, 10/26, at the Ohio River Way Summit. The Summit is happening directly on the river at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, 108 St. Michaels Avenue, Madison, IN 47250.
We’re proud to be one of the sponsors of the Ohio River Way Summit where we’ll be joining a diverse coalition of communities and organizations to discuss how river communities can grow around outdoor recreation.
Stop by our table today and say hello to Kelly Beals from BoardSafe Docks. Kelly will be able to share the benefits to paddlers, along with economic and ecological benefits to communities who invest in a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and our other water access products.
BoardSafe Docks recognizes outdoor recreation has not always been inclusive. Our team is committed to offering a wide range of water accessibility products. We understand our products’ impact on communities and have witnessed how our accessibility products improve lifestyles for the adaptive and recreation-loving communities they serve. Come see us and learn how we can be part of your water access solution!
You can register for the summit here: https://www.ohioriverway.org/orw-summit
BoardSafe Docks looks forward to meeting you today in Madison!