We're back for our second season of Conservation Block Parties! To kick things off, we're trading the neighborhood ‘block’ for the lake with an inclusive paddle at Sand Bar State Park.

Join a host of conservation organizations and friends and neighbors for a fun paddle on Lake Champlain. We'll spend time observing wildlife, listening to birdsong, and enjoying the beauty of the lake. Kayaking will be available from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM.

Not interested in kayaking? We'd still love to have you join us on shore! From 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Eileen Fitzgerald from the Lake Champlain Committee will lead a hands-on aquatic plant workshop, where you will learn how to identify both native and invasive species. A delicious lunch will be provided for all attendees beginning at 11:00 AM and available throughout the remainder of the day.

There’s more! We’re excited to partner with Cathy Webster and the Northeast Disabled Athletic Association’s (NDAA) Kayaking for All program to make this event accessible to everyone. If you have mobility challenges or other functional impairments, kayaks with adaptive elements including outriggers and specialized paddles, will be available. Assistance with getting in and out of boats will be provided as well.

This event is free and open to all. If you need a kayak for the event, with or without adaptations, we will provide them and connect you with Cathy from NDAA to match you with a kayak to meet your needs and assign a scheduled launch time. Advance scheduling helps us accommodate as many participants as possible and ensure everyone has a fun and safe experience on the water.

The final launch location will be confirmed closer to the event date based on weather and lake conditions.

This event is co-hosted with Grand Isle County Natural Resource Conservation District, South Hero Land Trust, Northeast Disabled Athletic Association, North Branch Nature Center, and Lake Champlain Committee.