It's a common misconception that an accessible kayak launch is ONLY intended for people with mobility impairments. The truth is that an accessible launch benefits the entire community and assists people of all abilities with accessing the water. Able-bodied paddlers love an accessible launch because it offers a…
Local and regional governments and public and private organizations overseeing waterways are recognizing the need for, and actively supporting, programs to provide access to the waters for people with mobility challenges. As these organizations plan facilities for all of their citizens or members, they look for input from…
The popularity of paddlesports continues to grow as more and more people take up paddling. Paddlesports are a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, have some fun, and stay in shape. Paddling is a popular recreational activity that family and friends can enjoy together. BoardSafeDocks has designed an…
A new project slated for East Tennessee was announced at the annual Legacy Parks Luncheon on Friday, September 29, 2023. A 20-mile river trail will be created on the French Broad River starting at Seven Islands State Birding Park and ending in Downtown Knoxville. Three accessible BoardSafe Docks…
The 2023 SOBA Symposium is less than three weeks away, and the growing need for non-motorized paddle access is on its agenda.With paddlesports on the rise, recreation stakeholders share responsibility for shaping our country’s water access spaces, ensuring their accessibility, and improving the user experience for all. Tom…
Mill Pond Park in Plainsboro, NJ, recently improved accessibility for kayakers and canoers by adding a BoardSafe Adaptive Kayak Launch to its scenic park. Mill Pond Park, located along Plainsboro Pond, is designated for non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, and picnics. The Town of Plainsboro, NJ, worked with GPI…
Adaptive vs. Accessible Kayak Launches The popularity of kayaking and other paddle sports has increased over the last several years. Adaptive athletes hold the same desire to be on the water with their able-bodied friends and family members. However, accessibility challenges continue to exist for those with physical…
In the fall of 2015, BoardSafe Docks installed a new ADA fishing pier and adaptive / ADA kayak launch at Leaser Lake in Kempton, PA. The floating docks and applications were designed and constructed by BoardSafe Docks, completing an ADA and adaptive park area that already included paved nature trails and ADA picnic tables.
On Sunday, May 22, 2016, a group of 12 adaptive paddlers and 30 volunteers, including 6 ACC instructors, enjoyed their first adaptive paddling event.
The Leaser Lake Heritage Foundation coordinated the parking, food, and programming, while Team River Runner handled the adaptive boating program. This was the first event of its kind since the unveiling and trial run on the adaptive kayak boat launch in November. Paddlers were taught water safety, the proper way to enter and exit a boat, and the basics of paddling.