The Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) has announced the 2025 recipients of its Waterway Enhancement Program, awarding a total of $25,000 to seven community-based projects aimed at improving waterway access, recreation, and safety throughout the state.
The Waterway Enhancement Program supports grassroots initiatives that promote accessibility and creative solutions to enhance Alabama’s freshwater recreation opportunities. This marks the second year of the program, which is administered through a competitive application and review process by ASRT’s enhancement committee.
“Congratulations to this year’s recipients—your work is making Alabama’s rivers more vibrant, accessible and welcoming for all,” said ASRT Executive Director Andrew Szymanski.
Martha Grace Mize, ASRT’s Director of Growth and Development, added that the 2025 awardees represent “community-led efforts that prioritize accessibility, safety, and creativity.”
The 2025 Grant Recipients are:
Autauga Creek Improvement Committee Inc.
Awarded $4,190 for a Portable Kayak Launch System. The funding will be used to purchase a 32-foot roll-in dock that can be deployed at various points along Autauga Creek in Autauga County to expand access along the Autauga Creek Canoe Trail.
Bear Creek Collaborative
Awarded $5,000 to purchase adaptive kayaking equipment and organize paddle events for at-risk youth in the Bear Creek area. The project will benefit waterways in Franklin, Colbert, Lauderdale, Marion, and Winston counties.
Black Kids Adventures, Inc.
Awarded $3,967 to support the Family Paddle Days Program, which introduces beginner paddlers in Madison County to the sport in a safe, structured environment with proper equipment and trained leaders.
Freshwater Land Trust
Awarded $5,000 for the Safety & Education Trail Signage Improvement Project. This funding will go toward installing new educational and safety signage at the Moon River and Grants Mill access points along the Cahaba River in Jefferson County.
Friends of Lake Guntersville State Park
Awarded $3,000 to establish a new kayak launch and rental system at the Lake Guntersville State Park campground in Marshall County. Additional details are available at their Facebook page.
Neely Henry Lake Association
Awarded $3,249 to help develop a public kayak, canoe, and paddleboard launch in Gadsden on Neely Henry Lake, which is part of the Coosa River in Etowah County.
Thomas Helping Hand
Awarded $594 to purchase and distribute life jackets for adults and children at the Sawyerville RiverFest. The initiative will promote water safety and awareness along the Black Warrior River in Hale County.
Supporting Alabama’s Waterways
ASRT is the official paddling resource for the state of Alabama, overseeing more than 6,500 miles of designated trails. The nonprofit organization partners with local groups, outfitters, and public agencies to promote outdoor recreation, economic development, and environmental stewardship along Alabama’s waterways.
More information about the Waterway Enhancement Program is available at the ASRT program page. To learn more about ASRT and explore its paddling trails, visit alabamascenicrivertrail.com.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
