Visitors to Mauthe Lake Recreation Area, located in the Northern Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest, can now enjoy a new universal kayak launch, making it easier for those with impaired mobility to enjoy the water, reported Outdoor News. The accessible launch features steps, a stable platform, and handrails, and was made possible through a Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program matching grant awarded to the Friends of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit.
In addition to the kayak launch, the Friends of Wisconsin State Parks are donating adaptive kayaks with stabilizing seats and outriggers, which will be available for rent at Mauthe Lake. The Tamarack Hiking Trail circling the lake has also been improved for better accessibility, thanks to another Knowles-Nelson grant.
These improvements at Mauthe Lake are key examples of ways the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program continues to support efforts to increase accessibility throughout Wisconsin’s state parks, forests, and natural areas, and help make outdoor recreation opportunities available to more people. These grants also recognize the important role that friends groups play in supporting the development needs of state parks, forests, and natural areas.
Featured image by Aaron Burden, 2015.
