It’s official! The new kayak launch is open for business at Havens Gardens in Washington! Thanks to the partnership with the City of Washington, the first kayaker – Harlan MacKendrick – was officially launched after a ribbon-cutting ceremony held March 12.  At 101 years old, Harlan still loves to kayak on the Pamlico, accompanied by his daughter, Linda.

Sound Rivers Executive Director Heather Deck and Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper Jill Howell joined Washington Mayor Donald Sadler, City Manager Jonathan Russell and Parks, City Councilwoman Betsy Kane and Rec Director Kristi Roberson for the ribbon-cutting, which was followed by the launch of Harlan and Linda in their kayaks. The structure features two launches, one of which is ADA accessible,  allowing for greater access to the Pamlico for all kayakers.

(Left to right) Washington City Councilwoman Betsy Kane, Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper Jill Howell, Sound Rivers Executive Director Heather Deck, Washington Mayor Donald Sadler and City Manager Jonathon Russell cut the ribbon to open the kayak launch.

Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper Jill Howell and Sound Rivers Executive Director Heather Deck are interviewed by local media about the new launch.

101-year-old Harlan MacKendrick is assisted into the water using the new ADA-accessible launch.