The Outdoor Navigator Reviews BoardSafe's Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Reba
BoardSafeDocks would like to give a special shoutout to The Outdoor Navigator for providing an independent, non-affiliated review of the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch at Lake Reba in the City of Richmond, Madison County, Kentucky.
Inclusive Kayak Launch: Who Says You Can't?
In his YouTube video here > Inclusive Kayak Launch. Who Says You Can't?, the Outdoor Navigator introduces viewers to the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch and explores how its innovative design helps make kayaking more accessible for people of diverse abilities.
His review highlights the thoughtful features of the launch and its potential to remove barriers that can prevent people with disabilities or limited mobility from participating in paddlesports. He emphasizes the importance of creating outdoor recreation opportunities that are not simply accessible in name, but designed to help people actually get on the water and enjoy the experience.
We especially appreciate that The Outdoor Navigator conducted this review independently. He clearly states that he has no affiliation with BoardSafeDocks and that his purpose is to educate and inform others about accessible outdoor recreation options.
He encourages paddlers with disabilities, and anyone who has considered kayaking but struggled with access, to do their research and explore solutions that can help them navigate the waterfront and enjoy the outdoors.
That message aligns closely with what we believe at BoardSafeDocks: accessibility should create opportunity, not simply check a box.
Thank you to The Outdoor Navigator for shining a light on inclusive paddling and helping others discover what may be possible when the right access is available.
🌊 Who says you can't? Get out there and navigate outdoors!
Follow The Outdoor Navigator #LifeIsBetterWhenYouNavigateOutdoors on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube for more outdoor adventures and inspiration.
For more information about our Accessible Kayak Launch and other accessible infrastructure, contact us at 610-899-0286 or at BoardSafeDocks.com
#BoardSafeDocks #AdaptiveKayakLaunch #AccessibleKayaking #AdaptivePaddling #InclusiveOutdoors #KayakingForEveryone #OutdoorAccessibility #AccessYourAdventure
BoardSafe Returns as Platinum Sponsor of SOBA Education & Training Symposium
The 2026 SOBA Education & Training Symposium is coming to Boise, Idaho, August 24–27, bringing together professionals from across the country who are dedicated to improving and expanding public access to our nation’s waterways.
Hosted by Idaho Fish and Game, the annual symposium is the largest gathering of professionals and affiliate organizations focused on boating access in the United States. The event brings together state boating officials, consultants, engineers, manufacturers, suppliers, publishers, and other industry professionals working to advance access to both motorized and non-motorized boating.
BoardSafe Docks: Supporting Access for All
Since 2022, BoardSafe Docks has proudly served as a Platinum Sponsor of the SOBA Education & Training Symposium, supporting the organization’s commitment to safe, innovative, and accessible boating opportunities.
At BoardSafe, we believe access to the water should be available to everyone. Our accessible kayak launches and waterfront access systems are designed to help communities create truly inclusive recreational opportunities for people of all abilities.
Our impact extends far beyond the launch itself. Inclusive waterfront infrastructure can strengthen communities, support tourism and outdoor recreation, and most importantly, give individuals who may have experienced barriers to water access the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors independently and confidently.
Meet BoardSafe at SOBA
BoardSafe Docks invites symposium attendees to connect with Tom Warchol, Managing Partner at BoardSafe Docks, who will speak about procurement options for the non-motorized boating industry and strategies for creating universal access to our waterways.
Tom will share insights into the importance of thoughtful procurement and the role manufacturers, engineers, and communities can play in making accessibility an integral part of waterfront development, not an afterthought.
Why Attend the SOBA Symposium?
The four-day SOBA Education & Training Symposium attracts nearly 200 professionals representing state boating programs, engineering firms, marine construction and manufacturing companies, specialty material suppliers, and other organizations involved in boating access.
The symposium provides an opportunity to:
- Learn about the latest boating access products, materials, designs, and construction techniques.
- Connect with state boating officials and industry professionals from across the country.
- Explore innovative approaches to motorized and non-motorized boating access.
- Share ideas and best practices for improving public access to waterways.
- Discover solutions that can enhance safety, accessibility, durability, and long-term value for communities.
For anyone involved in boating access, waterfront development, parks and recreation, engineering, or outdoor recreation, SOBA provides an invaluable opportunity to learn, network, and stay ahead of industry trends.
While You're in Boise, Visit Lucky Peak State Park
While attending the symposium, be sure to visit BoardSafe’s Accessible Kayak Launch at Lucky Peak State Park on the Boise River.
The new launch demonstrates how thoughtful design and accessible infrastructure can create more opportunities for paddlers of all abilities to get on the water. Read more here: BoardSafe Kayak Launch Expands Access at Lucky Peak State Park
We look forward to seeing our industry partners, colleagues, and friends in Boise!
2026 SOBA Education & Training Symposium
August 24–27, 2026
Riverside Hotel
2900 W. Chinden Blvd.
Garden City, ID 83714
For registration and event information, visit SOBA's official event page: https://www.sobaus.org/events/event
#SOBA2026 #BoatingAccess #AccessibleBoating #AdaptiveKayakLaunch #UniversalAccess #Accessibility #OutdoorRecreation #BoardSafeDocks #KayakLaunch #WaterAccess #Idaho
Accessible Recreation Grows at Spring Creek Park in Altoona, Iowa
Accessible outdoor recreation continues to grow at Spring Creek Park in Altoona, Iowa!
Spring Creek Park recently expanded its accessible amenities with the addition of a BoardSafe Accessible Fishing Pier, complementing the park’s existing BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch. Designed, engineered, and manufactured by BoardSafe Docks, these specialized access solutions help create more inclusive opportunities for people of all abilities to enjoy time on the water with family and friends.
Located on Spring Creek Park Lake, the accessible fishing pier provides anglers with a comfortable and convenient place to cast for bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie. The lake also supports paddling and small watercraft with electric motors, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
The new fishing pier is part of Altoona’s long-term vision to preserve the Mud Creek and Spring Creek corridors as vibrant recreational greenways while improving access for everyone in the community.
In addition to the fishing pier and adaptive kayak launch, visitors can enjoy other accessible park features, including hard-surface pathways, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Read more about the park and its plan here:
Adaptive Amenity at Spring Creek Park
At BoardSafe Docks, we're proud to help communities create welcoming waterfront destinations where everyone can experience the benefits of fishing, paddling, and connecting with nature. Contact us at BoardSafeDocks.com for more information.
#BoardSafeDocks #AccessibleFishingPier #AdaptiveKayakLaunch #InclusiveRecreation #UniversalAccess #ParksAndRecreation #FishingForAll #OutdoorAccessibility #AccessYourAdventure #AltoonaIA
BoardSafeDocks Supports Future Business Leaders
BoardSafeDocks Supports Future Business Leaders
Tom Warchol of BoardSafe Docks recently attended a business trade fair at APW High School in Parish, NY. BoardSafeDocks was invited to participate and share our accessible products with the Future Business Leaders of America Club at their High school's trade fair. It is great to support such a strong group of students engaged in business. Pictured with Tom is Norah, an active member of the club. #FutureBusinessLeaders #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerPreparation #StudentNetworking #College/TechnicalCareerPartnerships
Spring is Calling...Call BoardSafeDocks
Spring is calling, and it’s time to get people back outside.
As parks, trails, and greenways come alive with warmer temperatures and longer days, access to the outdoors matters more than ever. That’s where BoardSafe Docks comes in. As an industry leader in accessible outdoor products and services, BoardSafe helps communities remove barriers and open the door to nature for everyone.
From beautifully designed pedestrian bridges, like the one shown here, to accessible kayak launches, fishing piers, and floating boat docks, BoardSafe’s solutions connect people to the outdoors in meaningful ways. Whether it’s crossing a quiet stream, exploring a riverside trail, or simply enjoying a scenic overlook, these structures enable individuals of all abilities to experience the benefits of being outdoors.
This spring, invest in infrastructure that invites everyone in. Partner with BoardSafe Docks and create spaces where communities can gather, explore, and thrive, because the outdoors should be for all!
For more information on our accessible solutions, contact BoardSafeDocks at 610-899-0286.
Hudson Crossing Park Welcomes BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch
Hudson Crossing Park in Schuylerville, NY, is expanding access to the water with a new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch, helping ensure that more people of all abilities can enjoy time on the water.
Set along the scenic Hudson River and centered around Champlain Canal Lock 5 Island, Hudson Crossing Park offers a one-of-a-kind blend of recreation and education. Visitors can also explore over two miles of nature trails, relax at picnic areas, fish, birdwatch, or enjoy the children’s play garden, all with beautiful waterfront views.
BoardSafe Docks designed this accessible kayak launch to seamlessly connect to the park’s existing dock, providing a thoughtful and efficient solution that enhances access without disrupting the current setting.
This project was made possible through the power of partnership and community support, including a $24,999 Quality of Life Grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, a $7,500 Trail Grant from Saratoga County, $15,000 from AARP, and generous contributions from local donors.
Curious paddlers who wish to learn more about the BoardSafe launch and its inclusive features are invited to a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 28th, at 11 AM at Lock C5. All are welcome to attend and celebrate this important step toward greater accessibility and inclusion.
The park is planning several inclusive and guided paddling events in the near future, beginning on Tuesday, May 19th, and monthly thereafter. Paddlers of all abilities are welcome to attend and try the accessible launch, offering a safe, stable entry into the water. Pre-registration is required here: https://www.hudsoncrossingpark.org/on-the-canals-excursions
Interested in improving water access at your site? BoardSafe Docks specializes in creating safe, accessible solutions for boating, fishing, and paddling. Learn more at BoardSafeDocks.com or call 610-899-0286.
BoardSafe Docks Congratulates Bassmaster Winner, Dylan Nutt
BoardSafeDocks congratulates Dylan Nutt, winner of the 2026 Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville, TN. His three-day total weight of 66 pounds, 13 ounces, won Nutt the iconic trophy.
Photos by J. Blackburn / Bill Dance Signature Lakes Facebook Page
Photos by J. Blackburn / Bill Dance Signature Lakes Facebook PageParticipants note this year’s tournament was one of the best they’ve experienced. Knoxville’s atmosphere was reportedly amazing, and its vibe and exposure packed the arena with a high-energy crowd to recognize Nutt’s win and support the anglers in what is known as the “SuperBowl of Fishing.”
BoardSafeDocks was pleased to be able to provide the starting gangways and courtesy boat docks utilized by the anglers at the Governor Ned McWherter, Riverside Landing Park in Knoxville, which was the official launch site for the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.
Contact BoardSafe Docks at 610-899-0286 for more information on making your water access entry points accessible to all for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
BoardSafeDocks and HivePaddleSports Celebrate Tennessee's Outdoors
BoardSafeDocks and HivePaddleSports were proud to join the second annual Outdoors Day on the Hill, hosted by the Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP) on March 24 in Nashville, TN.
With more than 650 members of the General Assembly and the public in attendance, the day brought together the people and organizations shaping the future of outdoor recreation across Tennessee.
Watch video here: Celebrating the 2026 Outdoors Day on the Hill
BoardSafe and Hive are honored to partner with leaders across the state to deliver recreational infrastructure, from floating docks and fishing piers to accessible kayak launches and kayak rental kiosks that connect communities to Tennessee’s incredible lakes, rivers, and streams.
These investments do more than create great experiences outdoors; they prove to
✔️ Drive economic growth
✔️ Enhance quality of life in parks and communities
✔️ Inspire stewardship of natural resources
The impact is real. Tennessee’s outdoor industry generated $15.6 billion in 2024 and supports over 114,000 jobs, ranking #1 in the Southeast and #2 in the nation for 10-year GDP growth in the outdoor recreation sector.
A big thank you to Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP), along with state agencies and partners like Trust for Public Land and The Nature Conservancy in Tennessee, for making this event possible and continuing to move outdoor access forward.
Outdoor recreation isn’t just fun—it’s fundamental to Tennessee’s future.
Events like this allow us to showcase our designs, engineering, and waterfront infrastructure that connects Tennesseans and their visitors to the water for endless adventures in boating, fishing, and kayaking. Thanks again, Tennessee Outdoor Partnership (TOP), for an awesome day on the Hill!
#AccessYourAdventure #OutdoorsTN #OutdoorsDayOnTheHill2026 #TNConservation #TennesseeOutdoorsPartnership #OutdoorRecreation
Celebrating BoardSafe Access at the William R. Gaines Park
Charlotte County Commissioner Stephen R. Deutsch recently joined Paddle 4 Heroes, the Charlotte County Veterans Council, members of our veterans community, and fellow residents to cut the ribbon on the park’s new BoardSafe Accessible Kayak Launch.
This project represents years of collaboration and commitment to make William R. Gaines Jr. Memorial Park a place that honors service, strengthens community, and ensures every resident can enjoy the outdoors with dignity and independence.
“As a disabled veteran, I know firsthand how meaningful true accessibility can be. When we remove barriers, we open doors, not just for recreation, but for connection, healing, and belonging. I’m proud to see our community come together to make this possible for all of our citizens,” said Commissioner Stephen R. Deutsch during the ceremony.
"It’s truly an honor to be part of the William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park and the Beirut Peacekeepers Tower. This is a powerful story that must be told and remembered," commented Stephen J. Fleming, the man behind much of the fundraising for the BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch that was recently installed at the park.
Reconized for their participation was American Legion Post 110 for the presentation and retirement of colors; Master of Ceremony Lee Hale, U.S. Navy; Rev. Kevin Shaw, USMC, for the Invocation and Benediction; Jay Hemingway for leading the Pledge of Allegiance and Star Spangled Banner; Stephen R. Deutsch, USCG and Charlotte County Commissioner; Jeff Mosher, Beirut Veteran USMC; Charlie Foxtrot Brewing, Mission Barbeque, Durti Runners, Sweet Sparkman Architecture & Interiors, Willis Smith Construction, Jackson Signs, & BoardSafe Docks for manufacturing the accessible kayak launch and donating T-shirts to those attending the ribbon cutting ceremony.
The project was made possible with partial funding from Paddle for Heroes, a (501) (C3) non-profit working in cooperation with the county.
It took about two years to complete the permitting and approval documentation so kayaks and canoes can launch into the tributaries and canals into Charlotte Harbor. The work did not distrupt sea grass or small tooth sawfish living in the local tributaries. There was also “upland construction” to improve existing sidewalks and parking.
Learn more about the park’s plan and accessible amenities here: William R. Gaines Veterans Memorial Park, Charlotte County, FL, recognizes veterans and first responders with accessible park amenities.
BoardSafe + RAA = Inclusion in Action!
RAA Makes Inclusion Happen with Support from BoardSafe!
At Rochester Accessible Adventures (RAA), we believe that the joys of recreation and tourism experiences should be enjoyed by everyone. That’s why we are so thankful when we find people who think the same thing!
We are grateful we found BoardSafe Docks — leaders in adaptive waterfront access solutions — whose expertise helps transform inclusive outdoor experiences from an idea into reality! Just about the time RAA was beginning our work along the Erie Canalway back in 2015, we discovered an adaptive kayak launch that really rocks, and more importantly, we met the people behind that launch.
What BoardSafe Does (and Why It Matters)
BoardSafe Docks specializes in custom-designed adaptive kayak launches and dock systems that make water access truly inclusive for individuals of all abilities. We love that their adaptive kayak launch systems are engineered with accessibility features that support safe, dignified entry into the water — from thoughtful gangway design and ADA-informed configurations to careful attention to site-specific elements like parking access, shoreline terrain, and water conditions. Designed by people with disabilities, and always attentive to updates that make something good even better, these adaptive kayak launches are the most inclusive model we have found.
This attention to detail means that communities, businesses, and parks can offer water-based recreation that’s genuinely welcoming to everyone who wants to give it a try — and so that families and friends can experience outdoor adventures together.
“These BoardSafe launches just make it easier for everyone! You don’t have to worry about tipping over into the water while you are getting in and out of the boat. Those bars and straps make it so much easier to get in and out!”
Photos from the Erie Canal — where extraordinary things are happening through the Accessibility Education Program as RAA is in its 2nd year as the consultant for NYPA/NYS Canal Corporation to work with businesses and communities across the Canal system.
How BoardSafe Augments RAA’s Inclusion Work
RAA’s Inclusion Partnershipsalways include site assessments, accessibility planning, and inclusive program development for outdoor and recreation partners. When we connect with waterfront villages or businesses, we love it when BoardSafe is part of the conversations, because we know they will help translate accessibility visions into actual installations tailored to each unique location.
As each adaptive kayak launch is implemented, RAA can continue working with those communities to ensure the greatest number of people are aware of it and learn how to utilize it. Like when we hold our Extravaganza’s at these locations – so we can directly connect people to fun, memorable adventures on the water!
Amy, an RAA Founding Member, demonstrates how the BoardSafe adaptive kayak system works at the Brockport Welcome Centerto make entering and exiting a kayak and the Erie Canal a great experience.
Where Adaptive Launches Are Making an Impact
We’re proud to highlight just a few places where our Inclusion Partnerships and community work has resulted in a BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch installation – and follow the link below that takes you to ALL the places BoardSafe is impacting communities:
Erie Canal Boat Company (Fairport) — The place where it all started! With a custom adaptive launch and adaptive and standard equipment available 7 days a week, paddlers of all abilities can enter and exit the water safely and enjoy accessible recreational opportunities year after year!
Brockport Welcome Center (Brockport) — Right in the heart of the village, this lovely site serves as a recreation beacon for locals and visitors alike.
Churchville Park (Churchville) — BoardSafe’s newest adaptive kayak here in Monroe County opens another great waterway to an inclusive community experience.
Hudson Crossing Park (Schuylerville) — A new BoardSafe adaptive kayak launch is slated to open this spring, expanding water access for all visitors at a spectacular waterway crossing at a beautiful community-led park!
Elevator Alley Kayak (Buffalo)— Another exciting launch opening this spring, bringing adaptive paddle access to Western New York at the iconic ‘elevator alley’ location – a unique blend of urban and nature.
…and we’re already working on more across New York State!
Stay Tuned for Summer 2026!
We leave you with two thoughts:
- Celebrate with us and share in our gratitude to BoardSafe’s commitment to quality, safety, and accessibility that mirrors our mission at RAA — to ensure that people of all abilities can experience the health, confidence, and joy that come from outdoor recreation. Their support as an Inclusion in Action supporter for January sets the tone for a year filled with expanded access, partnership, and shared community impact.
- Follow us as we kick off 2026 in anticipation of a fabulous year of waterfront accessibility! We will invite you to many Grand Openings, Extravaganza’s, FREE On the Canals programs that take you out on excursions on the historic Erie Canalway, and more!