Fishing For Opportunities
- American Muscle Docks Sponsored Content -
Partnering to bring awareness to a local resource
A few years back, we were approached by a group of people representing a large outdoor recreation retail outlet with a store located near our manufacturing facility. The group was planning on “adopting” a local fishing area and using their talents to provide enhancements to the lake. The hope was to increase interest in local fishing opportunities as well as drive people to the store to purchase goods necessary to enjoy their outing.
The group decided to install a fishing dock that welcomed all types of people. The scope included creating parking near the dock for those with mobility issues, creating a pathway from the parking area to the dock with no impediments to access the dock, and creating a stable floating platform. A series of stakeholder meetings were held to develop a plan to take on this project and get it installed in time for spring fishing.
We worked with this group of volunteers to build the dock out of high-quality materials, designing it to pay homage to the retail establishment that spearheaded the effort. As with most group projects, there were differing opinions on some of the design elements; one of the most significant was the possibility of vandalism in this remote area. The consensus was one to build it like it was going into someone’s backyard with the hope it would deter vandals by just being too nice to tear up! After nearly 10 years, the dock and area have not suffered any significant damage.
The group’s efforts have since become a focal point for area businesses and groups to sponsor events, bringing thousands of people to the lake for outings. Local businesses sponsor special fish stockings to help assure those using the facility a high probability of catching a fish. The main sponsor uses the area to help teach fishing and other outdoor skills to those in attendance.
The retailer reports thousands of people taking advantage of their sponsored events thereby hitting the goal of increasing general public awareness of the local resource. The economic impact is assumed as kids and their families bought into the concept—hook, line, and sinker.
Marc Hannah is the Sales Manager for American Muscle Docks & Fabrication. For more information, call (800) 223-3444, or visit www.amdocks.com.