2025 Alabama Waterways Enhancement Program: Expanding Access, Participation, and Fun on Alabama’s Rivers
In 2025, the Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) invested $25,000 through the Waterways Enhancement Program (WEP) to support seven community-driven freshwater recreation projects across nine counties putting nearly 500 people on the water. From building new access points to providing adaptive equipment and safety resources, WEP is transforming how Alabamians connect with their rivers, creeks, and lakes.
This year’s projects demonstrate how small, strategic investments in local communities can create big impacts, opening waterways to more people, more safely, and in more inclusive ways than ever before.
Opening the Waterways for Everyone
Friends of Lake Guntersville State Park – Kayak Launch and Rental Station
A new kayak launch and rental station at Lake Guntersville State Park provided walk-up access for campers and visitors, supporting guided paddling programs and safe launch options.
Participants: 112+
Many guests shared that this was their first paddling experience, and they felt safe and excited to try something new. This project is creating accessible, memorable outdoor experiences that encourage connections with Alabama’s waterways.
– Friends of Lake Guntersville State Park
Neely Henry Lake Association – Kayak/Canoe Launch at Coosa Landing
One of only two assisted public kayak launches on Neely Henry Lake improved safety and confidence for first-time paddlers.
We are thrilled that the upper part of Neely Henry Lake now has a safe, accessible launch that the public can fully utilize. This encourages newcomers to the sport while increasing public engagement with the lake.
– Neely Henry Lake Association
Autauga Creek Improvement Committee – ACIC Portable Kayak Launch System
A portable kayak launch system allowed access to multiple temporary and permanent locations, supporting programs such as Autauga County 4-H RiverKids and seasonal community events.
Participants: 120+
The portable kayak launch has opened up multiple access points along Autauga Creek, allowing our programs to reach more youth and families safely and efficiently.
– Autauga Creek Improvement Committee
Programs That Remove Barriers and Invite Everyone In
Black Kids Adventures, Inc – Family Paddle Program
This program provided free and low-cost paddling experiences for families, including introducing 20 individuals to whitewater rafting for the first time.
Participants: 147+
The Family Paddle Program strengthened community connection to our local waterways by increasing access, skills, and confidence for families that have historically been underrepresented in paddle sports.
– Black Kids Adventures, Inc
Bear Creek Collaborative – Adaptive Kayaking Equipment & Pathfinder Paddle
Specialized adaptive equipment and Pathfinder paddle camps allowed individuals with disabilities and at-risk youth to participate safely and enjoy multigenerational experiences on local waterways.
Participants : 28+
The adaptive kayaking equipment created immediate, tangible access for individuals with disabilities, while the Pathfinder camp opened doors for at-risk youth to connect with nature, build skills, and gain confidence on the water.
– Bear Creek Collaborative
Safety at the Heart of Every Adventure
Thomas Helping Hand 501C(3) – Sawyerville RiverFest 2025
At Sawyerville RiverFest on the Black Warrior River, 40 life jackets (20 adult, 20 child) were distributed with safety demonstrations, combining community engagement with hands-on water safety education.
Participants: 40+
The excitement of attendees and vendors, coupled with new partnerships, has been a source of pride and accomplishment. RiverFest highlights the location and draws people to the area, many planning return visits as a result of attending.
– Thomas Helping Hand 501C(3)
Freshwater Land Trust – Safety & Education Trail Signage Improvement Project
Three educational signs are planned for installation at Grants Mill Canoe Launch and Moon River in January 2026. These signs will include safety guidance, river ecology information, and Spanish-language QR code access.
The new signage will welcome visitors, encourage safe and responsible use, and highlight unique species along the Cahaba River. Once installed, these additions will enhance public access and support ecological awareness for years to come.
– Freshwater Land Trust
A Small Investment, a Big Impact
WEP’s $25,000 investment catalyzed additional local contributions, volunteer support, and partnerships:
- More than 50 volunteer hours contributed to installation, programming, and habitat work.
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Partnerships with local governments, schools, nonprofits, and state parks amplified the impact of each project.
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ASRT funding allowed these partners to leverage nearly $10,000 in local contributions, magnifying the reach and impact of every dollar.
WEP funding allows communities to create meaningful outdoor experiences that are safe, inclusive, and memorable. This year’s projects demonstrate the power of strategic investments in local waterways to bring people together, strengthen community stewardship, and expand recreational access across Alabama.
– ASRT
A Lasting Legacy
With most projects completed in 2025—and all Freshwater Land Trust signage slated for early 2026—hundreds of Alabamians have paddled for the first time, and countless more have safer, more welcoming access to waterways they already love.
WEP is more than a grant program. It’s a catalyst for long-term engagement, connecting people to nature, supporting local communities, and expanding the reach and impact of Alabama’s freshwater recreation.
Even as we look ahead to the 2026 projects, the 2025 WEP investments will continue creating opportunities for safe, inclusive, and memorable experiences on Alabama’s rivers, creeks, and lakes for years to come.
About Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT)
The Alabama Scenic River Trail serves as the state’s official paddling resource, collaborating with communities to promote recreation, economic vitality and stewardship of Alabama’s waterways. For more information visit alabamascenicrivertrail.com
