the water entry point of carry-down craft launch sites. At the same time that launch site is a program opportunity and under the laws there is a responsi- bility that when improvements are made the site is to be usable by people with and without disabilities.
Universal design principles
The lowest-impact, most sustain- able and accessible carry-down water- craft launch sites follow universal design principles to the extent possible within that environment. The result is a launch site that maintains the natural resource and the character of the setting while providing a launch site that is usable for all people to the greatest extent possible. For the route to the water’s edge, universal and sustainable design sug- gests the grade or running slope should rarely exceed 10%, because steeper grades tend to have water drainage problems resulting in erosion. The following design and construc- tion techniques focus on improved drainage include, for example, grade reversals with out-sloped tread rather than steps. Eliminating steps also reduc- es the tripping hazards steps present when those on the route are carrying a large canoe or kayak. A route design that works with the terrain is also best for managing drainage. A sustainable surface is designed to have the firmness and stability needed to hold up during the primary seasons of use and between planned mainte- nance cycles. The route’s tread needs to be wide enough for the anticipated amount of use to keep the foot traffic within the tread while boats are being carried to avoid encroachment on the surrounding area.
At an ideal universally designed carry-down watercraft launch site this firm and stable route widens as it approaches the water’s edge to accom- modate loading and unloading of peo- ple and gear into their watercraft. With all of these design principles in place the route will require less maintenance, maintain the character of the setting, and be more accessible for all.
Site limitations Unfortunately, designers don’t always have such ideal locations to work with. If the only available launch site is a wetland, marsh, or tidal area, it is likely to be challenging to provide for firm and stable surfaces. Other site limi- tations may make it not possible to cre- ate the ideal universal design. Here are some site considerations
regarding the impact on the environ- ment and the final usability of that launch site:
If a dock is being considered, weigh out the potential impacts for people get- ting in and out of paddle craft from the dock or dock system. For a person seat- ed in their wheelchair it is approximate- ly 22 inches from the seat of the average wheelchair to the surface of the dock.
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