Accessible Public Fishing Pier

Improving access and inclusivity

08 May 2017

31 March 2023

Improving access and inclusivity: the GSLAC’s Accessible Fishing Pier

The GSLAC is proud to have brought an ADA accessible fishing pier to the Great Sacandaga Lake community. The 30-foot pier, located at the northern end of the parking lot of the NYS boat launch in Northville, is an impressive structure that expands accessibility and inclusivity for all members of the lake community.

The project was launched in 2011, and it took three years of concerted effort to bring the pier to the Great Sacandaga Lake. The pier was designed by Charlie Simola of Technidock and DEC engineers to comply with the American Disabilities Act, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities. It was constructed by Technidock of Speculator, NY.

Features of the Great Sacandaga Lake Accessible Fishing Pier

The Great Sacandaga Lake fishing pier is an impressive structure that was designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind. The pier features:

A 40-foot long gangway hinged at each end to accommodate changes in water levels up to 12 feet.
A 30-foot long fishing pier, 32 inches high with 16-inch gaps between railings, providing safety and ease of fishing whether an angler is standing or sitting in a chair.
Angling opportunities on both sides of the pier, with diverse fishing opportunities for many species of gamefish and panfish in the lake.
Two parking sites are designated for people with disabilities, providing accessible parking close to the fishing pier.
The path leading to the pier is surfaced to accommodate wheelchairs and other devices that assist people with disabilities.
The parking lot and path are well-lit, making it easier to access the pier during early morning or late evening fishing trips.

Installation and maintenance of the Great Sacandaga Lake Fishing Pier

The installation and maintenance of the Great Sacandaga Lake fishing pier was a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations. The pier was purchased by the GSLAC and donated to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), which is responsible for its maintenance. The installation was completed by GSLAC volunteers and staff from DEC, the Town of Northampton, and the Village of Northville. DEC provided funds for the installation materials and completed the landscaping, including creating the ADA accessible parking sites and access path.

How is the ADA accessible fishing pier project making a difference?

The GSLAC’s accessible fishing pier project has had a tremendous impact on the lake community, expanding inclusivity for users of all abilities. Here are some of the ways the project has made a difference:

Providing a direct connection to the lake from the parking lot, allowing for easy access for individuals with mobility challenges.
Serving as an excellent viewing platform for those interested in taking in the ambience of the Great Sacandaga Lake.
Expanding opportunities for individuals of all abilities to participate in fishing and other water-related activities.
Promoting awareness and appreciation of the lake’s natural resources among individuals who might not have had access to the lake before.
Fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect for individuals of all abilities in the lake community.

About the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) is a state agency responsible for protecting and conserving the natural resources of New York. The agency was created in 1970 with the mission to conserve, improve, and protect New York’s natural resources and environment, and to prevent, abate, and control water, land, and air pollution.

The Great Sacandaga Lake Advisory Council (GSLAC)

We fund projects that make Great Sacandaga Lake even better.

The GSLAC is committed to improving access and inclusivity for all members of our lake community. Thanks to our partnership with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, the ADA accessible fishing pier project has expanded opportunities for individuals of all abilities to experience the beauty of the Great Sacandaga Lake. By creating a more vibrant and diverse lake community, we are promoting awareness, appreciation, and conservation of the lake’s natural resources. If you are interested in supporting the council’s efforts or learning more about how you can get involved, please contact the GSLAC. Together, we can ensure that the lake remains a valuable and cherished resource for everyone.