The Friends of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit (KMSFSU) in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are proud to announce the new accessible kayak launch at Ottawa Lake. Designed to improve outdoor recreation opportunities for visitors of all abilities, the accessible launch provides a safer and more convenient way for individuals with mobility challenges to enjoy Ottawa Lake. The new launch complements the area’s accessible amenities and expands recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Ottawa Lake is adjacent to the Ottawa Lake Campground, which is the most visited campground in the KMSFSU and features an accessible cabin that is reserved consistently throughout the summer. As a non-motorized lake that is a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, Ottawa Lake is an ideal location for this important accessibility improvement. The specialized launch is designed to provide greater stability and easier transfers, helping paddlers of varying mobility levels safely enter and exit their kayaks.
The approximately $40,000 project was made possible through the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Friends Grant. The grant provides up to $20,000 in matching funds per property with the remaining project costs supported through donations, donated materials, volunteer labor, and community partnerships.
Anne Korman, President of the Friends of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit, shares, “The addition of this accessible launch on Ottawa Lake is another great example of how the Friends of KMSFSU works to provide improved amenities for the visitors of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Our ability to fund this improvement project using Knowles Nelson stewardship matching dollars allowed us to stretch our money further. Our goal is to provide a high quality outdoor recreational experience to all users of this beautiful state forest, and projects like this one are a perfect example of that.”
The project reflects the Friends group’s ongoing commitment to improving outdoor access while preserving the natural beauty of the KMSFSU. The Friends of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to promoting a greater appreciation of the cultural and natural history of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit. Through partnerships with Wisconsin DNR staff, volunteers, and community supporters, the Friends group helps preserve, restore, and enhance the forest by supporting recreation, education, accessibility, and conservation projects.
“Providing greater access to Wisconsin’s public lands is an important part of our mission,” said DNR Deputy Superintendent Colton Kelly. “The accessible kayak launch is one of the latest improvements aimed at making the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit more welcoming and accessible for visitors of all abilities. We’re grateful to everyone who contributed their time, expertise, and financial support to make this project possible.”
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The public is invited to attend and celebrate the completion of the project during a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Saturday, July 25, at 10:00 a.m. at the new accessible kayak launch at Ottawa Lake.
Following the ceremony, attendees are encouraged to explore the new launch, meet members of the Friends group, learn more about upcoming projects, and enjoy light refreshments. Kayakers are also invited to bring their own kayaks and experience the new launch firsthand following the ceremony.
The Friends of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit welcomes community members, outdoor enthusiasts, and local media to attend this special celebration recognizing another milestone in making Wisconsin’s public lands more accessible. To learn more about the Friends group, upcoming events, or membership, visit www.kmsufriends.org.
