VIDEO: Brighton State Recreation Area offers EZ Launch Accessible Transfer System for Canoes and Kayaks

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently announced that the official installation of its new EZ Launch Accessible Transfer System for Canoes and Kayaks at Brighton State Recreation Area is now complete. Beginning last month, people of all abilities can now enter their kayak or canoe unassisted, and enjoy the 119-acre Bishop Lake.

The above video from EZ Launch showcases the transfer system at use in Montana.

The accessible transfer system provides accessibility that exceeds the minimum requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Users simply place themselves onto the bench from their wheelchair, then slide over and drop down into their kayak or canoe while utilizing handrails to pull off and on. Having the vessel elevated and out of the water during this transition allows everyone to have a safe and stable way to access a canoe or kayak.

Funds for the purchase and installation of the launch were awarded through the Michigan State Waterways program. Additional site improvements were funded through the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s “Access 2 Recreation” initiative, focused on recreation projects that incorporate universal design principles resulting in greater accessibility in the outdoor environment. The launch is a product offered by EZ Dock of Missouri, and was installed by KBE Hoist, located in New Baltimore.

The Brighton State Recreation Area offers some of the most comprehensive recreational opportunities for people with or without disabilities. These include one mile of accessible trail, an accessible fishing pier, an elevated tent site and an eight-person rustic cabin. It also offers accommodations for horseback riding at the stables and accessible facilities at the Bishop Lake campground. An accessible disc golf course is expected to be completed later this year.