MONTGOMERY — Several North Alabama organizations will share some $25,000 in grants from the Alabama Scenic River Trail’s Waterway Enhancement Program.
The ASRT said the program is driven by its dedication to improving freshwater recreation opportunities, accessibility of waterways and safety throughout Alabama. In kind, the Scenic River Trail supports local organizations’ efforts to enhance waterway access across the state.
“I’m excited to celebrate the successful awarding of the second year of our Waterway Enhancement Program and the projects it has inspired,” said Andrew Szymanski, executive director of Alabama Scenic River Trail. “Congratulations to this year’s recipients — your work is making Alabama’s rivers more vibrant, accessible and welcoming for all.”
The North Alabama grant winners are the Bear Creek Collaborative, Black Kids Adventures, Friends of Lake Guntersville State Park and the Neely Henry Lake Association.
ASRT strives to ensure a fair and equitable process through the Waterway Enhancement Program, prioritizing grassroot-led solutions to local waterway needs, the organization said in a news release. The program committee carefully evaluated each proposal submitted by the applicants. Seven organizations’ projects are being awarded funding for a combined total of $25,000.
“This year’s awardees reflect the purpose of the Waterway Enhancement Program — community-led efforts that prioritize accessibility, safety and creativity,” said Martha Grace Mize, the trail director of growth and development. “We are inspired by the strength of this year’s applications and look forward to seeing the impact these projects will have on Alabama’s waterways.”
The North Alabama grant recipients are:
- Project title: Adaptive Kayaking Equipment and Pathfinder Paddle
- Award: $5,000
- Project summary: The funds will go toward purchasing adaptive kayaking equipment and host paddling events for at-risk youth.
- Waterways: Big Bear Creek, Tennessee River
- County/counties served: Franklin, Colbert, Lauderdale, Marion and Winston
- Website: https://bearcreekcollab.org/
- Project title: Family Paddle Days Program
- Award : $3,967
- Project summary: The funds are to provide necessary equipment, safety gear and trained leaders for the BKA Family Paddle Days Program, which allows beginner paddlers to build confidence on the water and experience paddle sports safely.
- Waterways: Tennessee River
- County/counties served: Madison County
- Website: https://www.blackkidsadventures.org/
Friends of Lake Guntersville State Park 
- Project title: Kayak Launch and Access Project at Lake Guntersville State Park Campground
- Award: $3,000
- Project summary: The funds will support the setup of a kayak rental system and assist in developing a new launch point at Lake Guntersville State Park.
- Waterways: Lake Guntersville, Tennessee River
- County/counties served: Marshall County
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562823118413
- Project title: NHLA Gadsden Kayak/Canoe/Paddleboard Launch Project
- Award: $3,249
- Project summary: The funds are to provide assistance with developing a public access kayak location in Gadsden on Neely Henry Lake.
- Waterways: Neely Henry Lake, Coosa River
- County/counties served: Etowah County
- Website: https://www.neelyhenrylake.
org/
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our email newsletter to have all our smart stories delivered to your inbox.
