New eco-friendly dock and kayak launch installed

SCANDINAVIA – Boaters, kayakers and anglers have a new way to access Silver Lake following the replacement of the lake’s former pier with a new pier and kayak launch.

The failing wooden structure previously at the lake has been replaced with a dedicated kayak launch with docking space for two motorized boats up to 24 feet in length.

The project was spearheaded by the Scandinavia Booster Club in partnership with the village. The Booster Club was successful in securing a Waupaca County Greenways grant to help fund the initiative.

“We would just like the community to know we are beyond humbled to be able to donate a brand new dock and kayak launch to the area for everyone to enjoy,” said Booster Club volunteer Lena Johnson, who credited the hard work of volunteers for making the project a reality.

The newly installed structure features innovative “thruflow” decking, which includes holes that allow sunlight to pass through to the water below. The eco-friendly design allows dirt, goose droppings and foliage to naturally break down and fall through the surface, minimizing shoreline disturbance, Johnson said. The decking also incorporates a non-slip tread for enhanced safety.

For paddlers, the purpose-built kayak launch has met the club’s expectations for ease of use, she added. The launch includes specialized hand grips that allow for minimal effort when entering or launching watercraft.

Johnson said community members have already begun using the new dock and launch and have praised the structure’s accessibility, safety and convenience.

“Our own booster club president, Adam Bloom, in fact, has already utilized it and feels it’s a definite upgrade for Silver Lake,” Johnson said. “He found it an excellent fit.”

While initially the installation was planned for later this season, the structure is already in place. Johnson said organizers are still wrapping up the final details of the project and a dedication plaque will be installed to commemorate the new waterfront addition.

Once the project is completely finalized, the village will officially assume ownership and maintenance of the pier and launch

Village President David Mork previously stated that the village board fully supports the initiative, calling it “an investment in the quality of life for our residents and the future of our shoreline.”