Press Release: 2025 Waterway Enhancement Program Grant Recipients
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2025 – 8 AM
Alabama Scenic River Trail Announces 2025 Grant Recipients of Waterway Enhancement Program
ALABAMA — Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) is excited to announce the Waterway Enhancement Program recipients for the 2025 cycle. This program, driven by ASRT’s dedication to improving freshwater recreation opportunities, accessibility of waterways and safety throughout Alabama, 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.”
ASRT strives to ensure a fair and equitable process through the Waterway Enhancement Program, prioritizing grassroot-led solutions to local waterway needs. The ASRT Waterway Enhancement 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, ASRT 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 following organizations have been selected as grant recipients of the 2025 Waterway Enhancement Program:
- Autauga Creek Improvement Committee Inc.
- Project Title: ACIC Portable Kayak Launch System
- Award Amount: $4,190.00
- Project Summary: ASRT is awarding funds to purchase a 32-foot roll-in portable dock that can be used anywhere on Autauga Creek, creating more access points for paddlers along the Autauga Creek Canoe Trail.
- Waterways: Autauga Creek
- County/Counties Served by Project: Autauga County
- Bear Creek Collaborative
- Project Title: Adaptive Kayaking Equipment and Pathfinder Paddle
- Award Amount: $5,000.00
- Project Summary: ASRT is awarding funds to purchase adaptive kayaking equipment and host paddling events for at-risk youth.
- Waterways: Big Bear Creek, Tennessee River
- County/Counties Served by Project: Franklin, Colbert, Lauderdale, Marion and Winston
- Black Kids Adventures, Inc.
- Project Title: Family Paddle Days Program
- Award Amount: $3,967.00
- Project Summary: ASRT is awarding funds 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 by Project: Madison County, Possibly Marshall County
- Freshwater Land Trust
- Project Title: Safety & Education Trail Signage Improvement Project
- Award Amount: $5,000.00
- Project Summary: ASRT is awarding funds for the installation of signage at Moon River and Grants Mill access points that will increase the presence of educational and safety information at the Freshwater Land Trust Canoe Launches.
- Waterways: Cahaba River
- County/Counties Served by Project: Jefferson County
- Friends of Lake Guntersville State Park
- Project Title: Kayak Launch and Access Project at Lake Guntersville State Park Campground
- Award Amount: $3,000.00
- Project Summary: ASRT is awarding funds to 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 by Project: Marshall County
- Neely Henry Lake Association
- Project Title: NHLA Gadsden Kayak/Canoe/Paddleboard Launch Project
- Award Amount: $3,249.00
- Project Summary: ASRT is awarding funds to provide assistance with the development of a public access kayak location in Gadsden on Neely Henry Lake.
- Waterways: Neely Henry Lake, Coosa River
- County/Counties Served by Project: Etowah County
- Thomas Helping Hand
- Project Title: RiverFest Life Jacket Distribution
- Award Amount: $594.00
- Project Summary: ASRT is awarding funds to support the purchase of life jackets for adults and children attending the Sawyerville RiverFest, increasing community education on water safety.
- Waterways: Black Warrior River
- County/Counties Served by Project: Hale County
About Alabama Scenic River Trail:
The Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) serves as the state’s official paddling resource, collaborating with communities to promote recreation, economic vitality and stewardship of Alabama’s waterways. Through strong partnerships with local organizations, members and outfitters, ASRT welcomes paddlers of all skill levels to explore over 6,500 miles of paddling trails across the state. ASRT is committed to providing safe and welcoming paddling experiences, connecting adventurers to Alabama’s diverse waterways. Learn more about ASRT by visiting our website at https://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/
Media Contact:
Martha Grace Mize
Director of Growth and Development
Alabama Scenic River Trail
