Tag Archives: kayak launch

Kayaking, Parks and Recreation, Uncategorized

6 Family Friendly Activities to Do Around Morse Reservoir

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We’re starting to see the weather warm up around central Indiana! The ice and snow has melted, and now people are looking for activities they can do to help keep their family entertained while we still deal with the effects of coronavirus. Fortunately, a family won’t have to go far to find fun on the water! Located in Cicero, Indiana, Morse Reservoir offers several fun things that will leave you with a fantastic time on the water. Today, we’ll look at a few ideas to get your family out on the water!

6 Morse Reservoir Family Friendly Activities

1. Visit the Beach

We couldn’t start a blog about Morse Reservoir without mentioning Morse Park and Beach. Located on the border of Cicero, this small 20 acre park offers many activities to fulfill a fun day. There’s a playground, disc golf course, and a small beach! Get away from the stress of the world and relax on the warm sand. Morse Beach is the only spot designated for swimming on the reservoir.

2. Go Kayaking

Kayakers will love Morse. It is the only body of water in Central Indiana with an EZ Dock Kayak Launch. Located in Red Bridge Park in Cicero, the launch allows for kayak or small canoe owners to safely launch into the lake without accidentally slipping into the water. There’s no cost to use the launch, so don’t be too intimidated to get out on the water and go paddling!

3. Fish Like A Pro

Morse Reservoir offers many great spots to go fishing. The best spot to cast a line, is located right next to the Kayak Launch! Right next to the launch in Red Bridge Park is a large fishing pier. There is plenty of room for several people on the pier, so overcrowding shouldn’t be a problem.

4. Have A Lakeside Meal

There are several good restaurants located on Morse that will give you a beautiful view while you eat. The two that we’ll highlight today are Wolfies, and the Boathouse. Wolfies is located right next to the Morse Public Launch Ramp, and offers tons of great food options that are priced decently. The Boathouse allows for boaters to dock right at the restaurant! So if you’re out in the boat for a cruise, stop by and eat some delicious food.

5. Go Hiking on a Trail

Located just 10 minutes east of Morse, Strawtown’s Koteewi Park offers several activities for family fun. Among these activities includes their beautiful nature trail. Using an EZ Trail system, the nature trail allows hikers to enjoy the parks scenic prairies and wetlands.

6.  Have Fun Horseback Riding

Also located in Koteewi Park is an equestrian trail for riding horses. No experience is needed because the park offers guided tours! Riding on a horse is a sure way to create a memory that will last a lifetime.

Morse Reservoir is a great lake to keep the family entertained. So plan your trip, and make sure you make the most of your visit!

If you’re a homeowner in Morse and need service on your dock, boat lift, or seawall feel free to give Deaton’s Waterfront Services a call at 317-747-4933! Our team will send an expert out to give you a free estimate and come up with a solution that perfectly fits your needs.

 

Parks and Recreation

Fun Things to Do at Strawtown’s Koteewi Park

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There are many great parks and lakes located in the Midwest to experience a fun day on the water. You don’t have to travel far or own a dock to be able to experience the joys and activities that are had on the water.  While many experienced water enthusiasts know exactly where to go to get on the water, there are many people that are uninformed about the lakes in their community. Today we are going to be looking at a park located in Central Indiana, Strawtown’s Koteewi Park.

About Koteewi Park

Koteewi Park is located in Strawtown, just outside of Noblesville in Hamilton County, Indiana. The park is located off State Road 37 and Strawtown Avenue. There are many activities and amenities to experience while at the park including: archery, horse riding, sky trails, snow tubes, and a natural history center. For more information about the park and all the activities offered, check out their website here for directions and park info. The park also offers several waterfront activities, which we’ll look at next.

How to Experience Fun on the Water at Koteewi Park

There are a few different ways to experience the water at Koteewi Park. They offer (3) different styles of EZ Dock products. There’s an EZ Trail, a boat dock, and an EZ Kayak Launch. This allows someone wanting to experience fun on the water the chance to do so at little to no cost. The park allows users to fish, launch their boat, and even explore a trail across a natural wetland. For anyone wanting to experience a relaxing, low-cost day on the water, this is a great place to be!

Finding a spot to get out on the water isn’t always easy. Most travel blogs just want to give out basic information, and not let everyone know the truly great areas that have beautiful lakes and ponds to visit. Fortunately, we here at Deaton’s Waterfront Service are here to pay it forward! We want to get as many people out on the water and forgetting about the stresses of life as possible. If you’re interested in creating a new dock to experience the waterfront, feel free to reach out to us or give us a call at (317) 747-4933.

Commercial Docks, Dock Design, Kayaking, Parks and Recreation

The ADA Kayak Launch: Getting More People on the Water

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Living near a public or community dock is a great way for people who love the water to be able to get out and access it. It’s a great source of fun and entertainment that should be able to be enjoyed by everyone. However, if a dock isn’t compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards then a large portion of people aren’t going to be able to access the water with your dock. Making sure your dock follows all the guidelines set by the ADA will ensure that everyone can have fun out on the water.

Safely Getting on the Water with an ADA Kayak Launch

Among the many popular water activities, kayaking keeps increasing in popularity.  Many public parks and summer camps see this increase in kayaking popularity, and in turn they would like to increase the kayaking traffic on their water. While most able-bodied people can safely get into a kayak, there’s always a risk of falling into the water if the kayak isn’t supported.

Fortunately, there’s a solution available for everyone! With the EZ Launch system from EZ Dock, people of all body function are able to safely launch in and out of the water without every worrying about getting wet. The EZ Launch system provides a stable platform for people to place their kayak, and it comes with an ADA certified transfer bench station to safely transfer in and out of the vessel. This provides everyone an opportunity to safely and securely access the water. An EZ Launch system is a great investment because it will increase traffic for your park or waterfront.

If you’re interested in an ADA accessible kayak launch system, Deaton’s Waterfront Services is here to help! We specialize in making sure our docks meet all ADA guidelines to help get everyone on the water. For more information, reach out to us to request a free quote, or give our office a call at (317)747-4933. Our team of experts will work with you to design the dock that perfectly fits all your needs.

 

Dock Design, Ez Dock

Beginner Kayak Features to Get You Out on the Water

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You don’t have to stick to boating to enjoy your time on the water. Learning how to kayak can be a great hobby to pick up at any age. If you aren’t a fan of swimming, or it’s not safe to swim around your waterfront site, then kayaking can be a fun way to exercise—you just need to know how to start out.

Using a Kayak Launch on the Dock

The first thing to practice when you’re beginning to kayak is how to get in and out of the kayak. Some areas will only give you the option to get into your kayak from the shore. In that case, move the kayak as close to the water as possible. Then just climb in, sit down, and you should be able to push yourself into the water with your arms. Once you’re floating, you’ll be able to start paddling.

The other way to get into your kayak is from a dock. When your dock has a designated kayak launch, sitting down is usually much easier. Otherwise, you have to carefully balance your kayak as you step into it. Depending on the dock and water level, you might have quite a drop into the water!

A kayak launch is usually more convenient, especially for beginners. These setups let you ease yourself into the kayak in a secure, stable way. We like the EZ Kayak Launch because it’s durable and slip-resistant. It also goes above and beyond the ADA requirements, so pretty much anyone can use it to safely enter and exit their kayak. If you have questions about installing this feature for your waterfront, we’d be happy to help.

Learning How to Paddle a Kayak

There are four basic paddle strokes for navigating your kayak. Even as a beginner kayaker, it’s pretty simple to master these movements. The first one is the forward stroke. You start with one end of the paddle in the water, down by your toes. Then you pull back so the paddle’s blade ends up near your hip. Next, slightly twist your body forward as you put the other end of the paddle into the water on the opposite side. Soon you’ll get into a rhythm and be moving right along.

The reverse stroke is simply the backwards motion of the forward stroke. Instead of pulling back on the blade, you push the paddle away from your chest so it goes toward your toes. As you back up, just remember to watch where you’re headed so you don’t run into anything.

If you’re trying to move alongside another kayak, then you’ll need to use the draw stroke. This is where you stick a paddle blade in the water and pull yourself over. You’ll want to reach over far enough so both of your hands are hovering over the water in the direction where you want to move. Rotate your body toward the blade and pull to draw your kayak to that side.

Finally, there’s the sweep stroke. This helps you turn your kayak quickly. You just need to make a half-moon or arc shape . To turn forward, put the blade in the front of your kayak and draw a curve in the water towards the back. Moving your body with the paddle makes this easier. To go backward, just start with your paddle in the back of the boat, then draw your arc toward your toes in the front.

Practice those four types of strokes, and you’ll quickly build your confidence on the water. You can also check the diagrams for these kayak stroke patterns to get a better idea of how to use your paddle.

Kayak Safety Tips and Reminders

Whether you’re planning to rent kayaks for the day or you’re ready to invest in some kayaks to keep, brushing up on a few of the basics is a smart move. This article’s kayak buying guide can be a helpful resource as you sort through your options. Once you have your gear collected, you might be ready to get a kayak launch of your own. When you waterfront has a kayak launch, your transition from the dock to the water can go much smoother and safer. Being able to carefully enter and exit your kayak puts you in a better position to enjoy your time on the water.

It’s also important to wear a personal flotation device whenever you’re enjoying a watersport. Grab some sunscreen and snacks, and you should have a nice time with some good weather. Stick to areas that match your skill level, and have fun on the water!

Ez Dock

Kayak Launch

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National Marine Manufacturers Association Honors EZ Dock Kayak Launch with 2017 Innovation Award!!

EZ Dock

Company’s Revolutionary Kayak Launch earns the Docking and Fendering Equipment Category award

EZ Dock earned a coveted Innovation Award at the Miami International Boat Show as voted on by Boating Writers International. The new EZ Kayak Launch was recognized for innovation in the docking category for its unique design for helping novice and experienced kayakers get in and out of their vessel without getting their feet wet. NMMA honored EZ Dock with this award as one of just 19 winners out of 63 evaluated products.

“The EZ Kayak Launch is a beautifully simple idea creating access to paddle sports for all ages and experience levels,” said one of the judges. Ken Schober, VP of Sales for EZ Dock, added “We’re thrilled to receive recognition for this product. Much of our success as a company has been through our collaboration with our sales network on innovation and design, and this award proves that to be a winning formula.”

The patent pending EZ Kayak Launch was designed from the ground up to provide a new level of stability, security and simplicity for kayaks and canoes. This port features innovative built-in hand holds to help effortlessly pull yourself onto the port or push yourself into the water via the entries/exits on either side of the port. Its one-piece construction, integrated paddle notches and v-shaped entry make launching and docking safe, easy and dry – even as water levels change.

Seamless Integration

The EZ Kayak Launch integrates easily into both EZ Dock products and current launch setups. From old wooden docks to floating structures. The EZ Kayak Launch can connect to virtually any existing dock, regardless of its material or mooring. To learn more about the EZ Kayak Launch and to see this innovative product in action, please visit: https://www.ez-dock.com/ez-kayak-launch/.
About EZ Dock:

Manufactured in Monett, MO, and part of PlayPower, Incoporated;  EZ Dock is a manufacturer of rotationally molded dock and port products for the marine industry. Founded in 1991, EZ Dock strives to be the best investment you will make for your waterfront property. Combining strength and stability with light weight and low maintenance. The patented designs have applications in commercial marine, residential and industrial markets.

Commercial Docks, Dock Design

Accessibility and ADA-Compliant Docks at Public Waterfronts

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If you have a community boat dock near you and your neighbors, you want to make sure that everyone can enjoy it. Being able to spend time outdoors and around the water is part of life’s greatest pleasures . But if the public dock isn’t handicap accessible or ADA-compliant, you’re preventing citizens from fully utilizing the space. Getting a site that’s up-to-code and open to everyone makes a big difference in building a vibrant, healthy, and engaged community.

Waterfronts on state property and other local public sites need to be regularly reviewed to ensure that they’re not only safe for guests, but that they are accessible for people of varying ability levels. Easy mobility on boat docks and fishing docks helps make these spaces welcome to anyone who wants to use them.

Guidelines for Recreational Facility Accessibility

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) works to protect the rights of individuals, no matter what their physical abilities might be. The law helps ensure that everyone can have safe, convenient access to local government and state facilities, including our treasured parks and recreational areas. Boating facilities, as well as fishing piers and platforms, must accommodate people with disabilities. Both fixed and floating structures need to comply with the ADA standards.

In 2002, the Access Board issued some helpful guidelines for new boating facilities and other remodels. Outlining the minimum requirements for these sites helps public docks improve their accessible features. These resources make it easier to create wheelchair-accessible routes for fishing docks and other boating activities. Of course, it’s always best to work with a seasoned waterfront specialist when drafting your designs. The right team of dock experts will help ensure that any new builds or remodels are ADA-compliant.

No matter the size of the recreational facility, certain accessibility features will need to be in place. Large marinas and piers, and even small public campgrounds with just one or two boat slips must meet these requirements. By addressing the usability at sites of all shapes and sizes, the public can have a great time around the water—no matter where they are.

Accessible Dock & Waterfront Solutions

Fortunately, making public docks accessible isn’t that big of a mystery. There are plenty of waterfront products available that can streamline the process. ADA-compliant features make fishing, boating, and other outdoor recreation fun for everyone! Including some of the best accessible dock solutions into your site is a great way to help your community stay safe on the water.

Public Fishing Docks

Building an accessible fishing dock is often a top priority for commercial and public waterfronts. Since fishing is such a popular hobby, it would be a shame to limit anyone’s access to the lake or pond! A simple public fishing dock will let park visitors get a great catch. We prefer building with EZ Dock because it’s easy to upgrade commercial dock setups. When necessary, you can even add a floating walkway with guardrails to expand visitor access.

Public Kayak Launches

For a really convenient canoe and kayak launch experience, you can’t go wrong with the latest EZ Launch Accessible Transfer System. These models make it easier than ever for small boating enthusiasts to enter and exit their watercraft. The transfer bench is made with two different heights to accommodate varying wheelchair sizes, and the entire system exceeds the minimum requirements of the ADA standards.

Community Boat Docks

If your setup requires multiple boat slips, ramps, and access points, you can still count on EZ Dock. We’ve utilized their modular system to build floating docks in communities all across the Midwest. Because you can easily expand your design with EZ Dock, there’s always the option to add new elements for a better overall experience. Making sure you have the proper ADA-compliant railings and curbing for safe, accessible ramps streamlines these designs.

Ready to Improve Your Public Dock?

If you need help making your local or state property compliant and accessible, call on the dock experts. At Deaton’s Waterfront Services, we’re proud to work with municipalities and commercial docks of all shapes and sizes. We have completed multiple waterfront projects for state properties and public lakes throughout Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Illinois.

Getting your waterfront accessible and ADA-compliant is easy when you work with a professional team. To get started, simple contact Deaton’s Waterfront Services to schedule an on-site visit or request a quote. We would be honored to work with you!

 

Commercial Docks, Deaton's Waterfront Services News

Our Top Commercial Waterfront Projects from 2017

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As we get ready to wrap up the year, it’s only natural to reflect on how our company has grown. In 2017, Deaton’s Waterfront Services was proud to work on a variety of commercial dock projects. From new floating docks, to kayak launches and boat houses—we love helping making your waterfront experience better than ever.

Working with state parks, government groups, and other commercial clients is a big part of what we do at Deaton’s. Take a look at some of this year’s highlights to get an idea of what our crew is capable of creating for both residential and commercial waterfronts!

1. Paddle Dock at Jacobson Park

The marina at Jacobson Park in Lexington, Kentucky needed a waterfront upgrade, and we were happy to help. Their new floating dock now gives park-goers easy access to their paddle boat rentals. It’s a relatively simple project, but adds great value to their marina.

Although the boat dock is now closed for the season, Jacobson Park is sure to get some great use out of this setup in 2018. A sturdy EZ Dock system was just what this park needed.

2. Boat House at Griggs Reservoir

Building a custom boat house gives commercial waterfronts total control over their setup. We recently teamed up with the Columbus Police Department in Ohio to construct a boat house. The finished project now keeps their gear protected and meets all their needs.

We traveled over to Griggs Reservoir in Columbus, Ohio for the job. Once we assembled the dock, uprights, and purlins, the rest of the construction for this boat house was smooth sailing.

3. Floating Dock at Crab Orchard

Some floating docks are easier to install than others. But this large community dock definitely needed a team effort. Managing the many sections of this commercial dock was a fun challenge for us! The end result is a strong, stable structure—even with its large surface area.

The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge stretches across nearly 44,000 acres in southern Illinois. We were honored to complete this dock over in Carbondale.

4. Kayak Launch at Cowan Lake State Park

This summer we also took a trip to Wilmington, Ohio. Cowan Lake State Park needed a kayak launch for their park visitors and outdoor enthusiasts. We knew that they would love the new EZ Dock kayak launch. The completed install looks great on their waterfront.

Getting out of the water is breeze with this setup. The floating dock and kayak launch have a low-profile to make the site even more accessible and user-friendly.

Commercial Waterfront Services

Making plans for a new and secure commercial dock system can be complicated. But you should never compromise safety. The right equipment for your waterfront can help everyone have a good time. Match that with an experienced team for the install, and you’ll have a winning setup that will last for years to come.

If your commercial site needs a new dock or boat launch, contact Deaton’s Waterfront Services. Our team is proud to serve clients throughout Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee. For commercial dock systems big and small, you can count on us!

Deaton's Waterfront Services News, Dock Products

New EZ Dock Boating Products for 2017

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The new line of 2017 EZ Dock products is making a big splash this year. Whether your dock is already in place, or you’re still making plans to get your system installed, these two new add-on options are great for personalizing your waterfront property. Build the dock that matches your needs and interests with one of these fantastic setups!

These new dock systems are perfect for rowing and kayak enthusiasts. The special designs give you easier access to the water and work seamlessly with both residential and commercial docks. And just like everything in the EZ Dock brand, the new products are all about versatility.

Low Profile Dock

We’re now offering installation services for the new Low Profile Dock from EZ Dock. This is an ideal match for waterfront properties that want easy access for their fishing, swimming, boating and rowing adventures. Because the freeboard planks float even closer to the water, it’s the perfect platform for entering your boat safely and conveniently. Or you can use it as a regular dock for just jumping right in to the water!

  • New Low Profile Dock
  • Low Maintenance & Great Stability
  • High Load Capacity for multiple launches (on both sides)
  • Compatible with traditional docks and standard EZ Dock systems
  • Modular Design for multiple applications

This new addition to the EZ Dock product line is also known as their Rowing Dock. With its shallow height and durability, this modular system is the perfect dock for recreational and competitive rowers. These low-profile docks even exceed the US Rowing standards, as well as the International Rowing Federation (FISA) standards. With this setup, you’ll know you’re getting great quality for rowers of every level!

You can even reconfigured your design if you need to change locations or move the dock for upcoming events. The versatile construction with EZ Dock products helps you create the systems that’s perfect for your waterfront. We’re excited to help our clients set up these unique systems!

Canoe & Kayak Launch

The release of the new Kayak Launch from EZ Dock is great for lots of small boat types. This sleek design makes it easier than ever to enter and exit your kayak or canoe. Even as water levels rise and fall, the floating platform on this launch give you comfortable access to your favorite water activities. Guard rails for safety and convenient launch rollers will help get you out on the water in no time.

  • New Canoe & Kayak Launch
  • Guide rails for safe access in and out of boat
  • Launch rollers to help move watercraft
  • Floating Platform fits with Standard EZ Dock systems
  • Universal Access Features

Whether you want a kayak launch for your private property or a commercial site, these new design features will make boating fun and even more approachable. Secure railings and a unique Accessible Transfer System provide top of the line safety and assistance to users of all levels. A transfer bench and slide boards even allow users to enter their boat while sitting. It’s a more comfortable transfer, and the system even surpasses the minimum requirements outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

You can also pair the EZ Launch Accessible Transfer System with this kayak launch. A transfer bench with two heights helps ease the transition from a wheelchair to the boat, and the slide boards come with two different heights to accommodate varying watercraft sizes. (For more information on these features, check out the product video from EZ Dock.)

Get the Upgrade!

Updating your current dock setup or preparing to install your floating dock is a breeze when you have the right contractors. Contact Deaton’s Waterfront Services today to learn more about these new 2017 products from EZ Dock. We’re always available for consultations and look forward to telling you more about the best docking system for your active lifestyle.