Just in time for summer, a new boat launch for canoes and kayaks opened on the Rocky River on Friday.
The boat launch is in Ansonville on Plank Road, just past the intersection for Plank and Woodall Roads.
The launch was paid for by REI, an outdoor clothing and equipment company, and Carolina Thread Trail, a regional trail network with the goal of connecting 15 counties. Anson County Parks and Recreation will maintain the launch location.
Anson County Parks and Recreation director Jeff Waisner said he expects the new boat launch will be put to good use. He quoted the 1989 movie “Field of Dreams,” saying, “If you build it, they will come.”
Roger Dick, president and CEO of Uwharrie Capital Corp and a member of the Carolina Thread Trail governing board, said he has paddled on several rivers, but has never been on one more beautiful than the Rocky River.
Dick foresees a number of benefits from the boat launch. “Really, some of the impact of this kind of effort from communities is just good health, whether it be mental, spiritual or the physical, from the exercise and being out and enjoying God’s creation,” he said. “Also, when you get out here and participate and see this, your awareness about what we do have in terms of our natural resources, the animals, the vegetation, the plants, it makes you cognizant that it’s something we need to work to protect. We are blessed in this part of the country with these rivers, so it’s not just about the economics, which is also important.”
Economically, the launch will help the area as visitors will buy local foods, crafts and more, Dick said.
Waisner said that while he has not done a cost-analysis yet, the maintenance costs of the launch should be low. The gate to the site will be controlled by an electronic timer, limiting the number of trips staff will have to make to the launch, though staff will still visit to mow and check the site.
The gate to the site will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. from March 1 to October 1, and from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. from October 1 to March 1. The trailhead address is 5347 Plank Road, Wadesboro.
The boat launch is intended only for kayaks and canoes. No overnight camping, swimming, wading or bathing, fire or portable grills, alcohol, hunting, or discharging firearms are allowed. For more information, contact Parks and Rec by emailing recreation@co.anson.nc.us or calling 704-694-5868.
To learn more about the Carolina Thread Trail, visit www.carolinathreadtrail.org.