In Kaukauna, Wisconsin, local kayakers are finding it easier to navigate the Fox River Locks thanks to newly constructed portages. These portages, which are designed to help kayakers and canoers safely bypass the locks, have been well-received by the community.
Enhancing Water Recreation
Jeff Mazanec, president of Northeast Wisconsin Paddlers, expressed his satisfaction with the new infrastructure. ‘I’ve been paddling some 25 or 26 years, and I’ve gotten in and out of my boat every time I paddle, but I still make sure there’s nothing in my pockets that can’t get wet, because you never know,’ he shared. Mazanec, along with fellow kayaker Scott Thomson, praised the construction at Kaukauna Lock #2, noting the stability and accessibility of the landing made of limestone blocks.
The portages are part of a broader initiative by the Fox Locks Authority to enhance water recreation on the Fox River. According to Fox Locks Operations Director Jeremy Cords, 18 portages have been constructed, including five in Kaukauna last fall, with plans to install a total of 31. ‘The kayaks have a special niche in water recreation, and we’ve seen that develop over the years. That’s why we’ve also made this an important initiative for the Fox Locks, because we want to make sure that the public has a place to recreate. Accessibility is very important,’ Cords stated.
Community Impact
The new portages not only improve safety but also encourage more people to engage in kayaking, a popular pastime in the region. The Fox Locks system, which runs from Menasha to De Pere, offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic beauty and historical architecture of the area. As Mazanec and Thomson prepared to launch, they reflected on the enjoyment of spotting eagles and admiring the 100-year-old locks.
For those interested in experiencing the Fox River Locks, a daily pass for Saturdays and Sundays is available for $15, while a seasonal pass costs $150. The investment in these portages underscores a commitment to fostering outdoor activities and making natural resources accessible to the community.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
