Alabama Scenic River Trail Announces 2025 Waterway Expansion Grant Winners
The Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) has revealed the recipients of its 2025 Waterway Expansion Program, awarding grants to seven community projects aimed at enhancing waterway access, recreation, and safety across the state. The total amount awarded is around $25,000.
This program aims to support local initiatives that foster accessibility and innovative solutions to boost freshwater recreation in Alabama. It’s interesting to note that this is the second year the program has been running, assessed through a competitive application process managed by the ASRT Extension Committee.
“Congratulations to this year’s recipients. Your efforts truly make the Alabama River more vibrant and welcoming for everyone,” stated Andrew Szymanski, ASRT’s executive director.
Martha Grace Mize, the director of growth and development at ASRT, commented that the 2025 recipients highlight a “community-focused approach that emphasizes safety, accessibility, and creativity.”
The Grant Recipients for 2025 Are:
- Autauga Creek Improvement Committee Inc.
Awarded $4,190 for a Portable Kayak Fire System. This funding will enable the purchase of roll-in docks that can be deployed at various locations along the Autauga Creek to expand access to the canoe trail in Autauga County. - Bear Creek Collaboration
Received $5,000 for Adaptive Kayak Equipment to organize paddle events aimed at at-risk youth in the Bear Creek region, benefiting waterways in Franklin, Colbert, Lauderdale, Marion, and Winston counties. - Black Kids Adventures, Inc.
Granted $3,967 for supporting a Family Paddle Days Program that introduces newcomers from Madison County to paddling in a safe and structured setting with proper equipment and guidance. - Freshwater Land Trust
Awarded $5,000 for a Safety & Education Trail Sign Improvement Project. This will fund the installation of educational and safety signs at the Moon River and Grant Mill access points in Jefferson County. - Friends at Lake Guntersville State Park
Received $3,000 to establish a new kayak launch and rental system at a campground in Lake Guntersville State Park, located in Marshall County. - Neely Henry Lake Association
Awarded $3,249 to support the development of kayak, canoe, and paddleboard access in Gadsden, part of the Koosa River in Etowah County. - Thomas Reaches Out
Granted $594 for purchasing and distributing life jackets at the Sawyerville Riverfest, aimed at promoting water safety awareness among both adults and children in Hale County.
Supporting Alabama’s Waterways
ASRT serves as Alabama’s official paddling resource, overseeing over 6,500 miles of designated trails. The nonprofit frequently collaborates with local organizations and public agencies to encourage outdoor activities, economic growth, and environmental management along Alabama’s waterways.
For more details about the Waterway Expansion Program, visit the ASRT Program Page. To discover more about ASRT and its paddling trails, check out alabamascenicrivertrail.com.
