Adaptive Kayaking

About the Program

Category: Parks and Recreation (Best in Category)

Year: 2010

Adaptive Kayaking is an innovative way for individuals with physical disabilities such as spinal cord injuries to discover Mecklenburg County’s 1,300 acre Latta Plantation Nature Preserve and to paddle around Mountain Island Lake in Huntersville, NC. Kayaking is a fun way to see wildlife and natural areas and to participate in an activity where adaptability is not always available. The kayak tour highlights areas of Mountain Island Lake including Garr Creek, the Catawba River and views of the Mountain Island Lake water pump station, the main water source in Charlotte-Mecklenburg. This program is provided through a partnership between the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department and the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program, a community-based program of Carolinas Rehabilitation. Participants receive basic instruction on flat water kayaking and safety aspects of being on the water, followed by a tour of Mountain Island Lake. Paddlers are often surprised by the environmental protection aspects of the tour. They enjoy learning about the conservation efforts of Mecklenburg County through preservation, education and stewardship. With dozens of participants, the Adaptive Kayaking program offers a fun way for individuals with physical disabilities to stay physically active, while at the same time appreciating the natural sights of Mecklenburg County.