VERONA, N.Y. — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recently cut the ribbon on a new accessible boat launch on the Barge Canal on Cove Road in the town of Verona. The new launch enhances fishing and boating opportunities for all visitors, including those with disabilities, and connects to Oneida Lake to […]
VERONA, N.Y. — The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recently cut the ribbon on a new accessible boat launch on the Barge Canal on Cove Road in the town of Verona.
The new launch enhances fishing and boating opportunities for all visitors, including those with disabilities, and connects to Oneida Lake to provide additional access to fishing.
The DEC is working to expand recreational opportunities for people of all abilities. The Cove Road site was designed and constructed with several Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant features. The site now includes a two-lane concrete launch ramp with floating docks, a canoe/kayak launch, fishing pier, parking for 24 cars and 49 vehicles with trailers including accessible parking, and portable bathroom facilities.
“DEC is working hard to expand safe and accessible outdoor recreation opportunities through strategic investments across the state,” DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a press release. “The new Barge Canal Cove Road boat launch provides a much-anticipated opportunity for angles, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy boating and fishing on Oneida Lake and its tributaries.”
The launch expands access to Oneida Lake, which is the state’s most heavily fished inland body of water. It’s the largest lake lying wholly within the state with a surface area of 50,894 acres and supports numerous fish species.
The DEC is funding the project with $1.6 million from the Environmental Protection Fund and NY Works. Under the state’s Adventure NY initiative, the DEC is making strategic investments to expand access to healthy, active outdoor recreation and connect more New Yorkers and visitors to nature.
“This is a momentous occasion as the completion of this launch is a tremendous achievement and a valuable addition to the recreational opportunities on Oneida Lake,” Oneida Lake Association President Gina M. Duggleby said. “We are grateful for the fruitful collaboration, which has resulted in a facility that will benefit our residents, visitors, and the lake’s ecosystem for years to come.”
The project follows the recent illumination of the nearby Verona Beach Lighthouse through the Reimagine the Canals iconic lighting program.
“The Cove Road Boat Launch has been a long time coming, and we are excited to see a safe water boat launch site at the east end of Oneida Lake,” Federal Sportsman Club of Oneida County Secretary Scott Faulkner said.