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Information about ASRT's efforts on Alabama’s rivers, creeks, and streams.

Press Release: Pea River Becomes Alabama’s Safest Marked Waterway, Setting New Standard for Safety and Accessibility in Water Recreation

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 11, 2024, at 3PM

Pea River Becomes Alabama’s Safest Marked Waterway, Setting New Standard for Safety and Accessibility in Water Recreation

ELBA, Ala. — The Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) is thrilled to announce a historic achievement in river safety: the installation of the highest number of mile markers along a single river in Alabama. With 107 marked miles, the Pea River now stands among the safest rivers for paddlers and water recreators in the state, providing crucial support for navigation and emergency response. This milestone significantly enhances safety and navigational assistance along a popular paddling destination in Alabama.

This accomplishment was made possible by the dedicated volunteer efforts of Pea River Outdoors, the City of Elba Fire Department, and Choctawhatchee Riverkeeper. Their work over the past summer to install these markers ensures safer water recreation on the Pea River. These key supporters of the project received special recognition at an October 10th celebration held at Pea River Outdoors. ASRT presented an enlarged “Mile 58” marker as a thank-you to the following contributors:

  • Tony Johnson and Amanda Johnson, Pea River Outdoors
  • Assistant Fire Chief Dennis Manning, City of Elba Fire Department
  • Michael Mullen, Choctawhatchee Riverkeeper

Local leaders and ASRT supporters, including State Sen. Josh Carnley, State Rep. Rhett Marques, and Beverly Hamilton from the Elba Chamber of Commerce, joined in celebrating this vital safety advancement for Alabama’s paddlers.

Sen. Carnley emphasized the importance of the project, saying, “The Pea River embodies Alabama’s biodiversity, and with the completion of these mile markers, more people will have the opportunity to safely enjoy this great waterway.”

Shannon Mo’ikeha Taylor, ASRT’s Waterways Program Manager in charge of the program’s statewide execution, noted, “Local volunteers are the real rockstars of this program; without their dedication and commitment, these mile markers and this program wouldn’t exist.”

ASRT’s Executive Director, Andrew Szymanski, added to Mo’ikeha Taylor’s comments, praising the collaborative efforts by stating, “The dedication of our local partners and volunteers in Elba has been remarkable. Seeing these markers installed along the Pea River is an exciting milestone not just for ASRT, but for the entire state. It’s inspiring to witness the progress of this [Mile Marker] Program as it helps make our waterways safer and more accessible for everyone.”

With mile markers installed, adventurers can now experience Alabama’s Pea River with added safety and peace of mind. Other waterways across the state have begun their installation efforts and ASRT looks forward to celebrating safer waterways statewide as more of these projects reach completion.

ASRT would also like to extend a special thanks to Sandy Bynum, President of the Elba Chamber of Commerce, for her invaluable support and coordination of the celebration event.

Learn More About ASRT’s Mile Marker Program

The Mile Marker Program is designed to function like highway mile markers, allowing 911 and emergency responders to locate paddlers quickly and effectively. ASRT runs the program by providing the waypoints and signage to local volunteers who request the program and complete the installation. For more information on the Mile Marker Program (under About-Programs & Initiatives), please visit the ASRT website at alabamascenicrivertrail.com.

About Alabama Scenic River Trail:
The Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) enhances community development in water recreation and tourism statewide across a trail network of more than 6,500 miles of rivers and streams. Through strong partnerships with local organizations, members, and outfitters, ASRT serves as the state’s premier paddling resource, welcoming paddlers of all skill levels. ASRT is committed to safe and welcoming paddling experiences, connecting adventurers to Alabama’s diverse waterways, from the northern mountain streams to southern river deltas. Learn more about ASRT by visiting our website at https://www.alabamascenicrivertrail.com/.

Media Contact:
Martha Grace Mize
Development and Outreach Coordinator
Alabama Scenic River Trail, Inc.
[email protected]

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