Politics & Government

Town Moves to Limit Canoes Launching Off Kings Park Bluff

Town won't grant Kings Park businesswoman permit to run canoe business in Kings Park after storm, dredging changes water currents.

Kings Park residents may see fewer canoes and kayakers exploring the waters off Kings Park Bluff this upcoming summer as new limitations may curb this popular pasttime.

Smithtown town officials said they will not be renewing the 2013 permits for canoe rental businesses to operate from the Kings Park Bluff this year. Due to changes in the water's currents, town officials say it's simply become too risky. 

"The dredging of the [Nissequogue] river altered the currents and it makes the launching of the canoes interfacing with the boats a very dangerous situation," said Supervisor Patrick Vecchio. 

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Vecchio said he also believed that Superstorm Sandy may have had an impact on the shoreline and water current.

Linda Sandstedt, Kings Park resident and owner of Nissequogue River Canoe and Kayak Rentals, said she was suprised when she received a letter from the town saying they would not renew permits she needs to operate her business. 

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"I’ve been there for 25 years and thought I deserved more than a two-line letter," Sandstedt said. 

She said canoeing and kayaking off the Kings Park Bluff attracts people from across Long Island to the area and is a summer traditon for many. Sandstedt said she's had to be cautious of local boats when launching canoes for many years.

Fort Salonga resident Bob Koliner, owner of Bob's Canoe Rentals, questioned the town's decision. 

"I don’t think the dredging has anything to do with it, the current has always been very strong," Koliner said. 

John Zollo, town attorney, said town officials were concerned that canoe rentals are frequently used by students or individuals who are inexperienced are using a canoe, which increases the risk. 

"The currents are dangerous for everyone, but we can't license a concessionaire to take a fee to run a concession for something we know is dangerous," said Councilman Thomas McCarthy. 

The town has posted addditional signage directing private individuals to designated area where they can launch a canoe off the Kings Parks Bluff, where they believe is the safest area to enter the waters. 

McCarthy said the town's park department and public safety department will be reviewing the limitations over the upcoming months, and may suggest further limitations. 


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