OUTDOOR REC GOES
HIGH TECH
Kayak Kiosk Creates New Recreation Opportunities
by Linda Sones
After a lot of research and development, Dave figured out a way to turn a trailer into a kiosk. But security was still an issue. His initial search turned up a locking system that was Bluetooth controlled. However, reliable WiFi service was lacking at the pre- serve, so that option was ultimately ruled out. Eventually, after a deeper investigaton, he found a system that uses cell service. This system is wireless and provides reliable security. Once he had the basics figured out, Dave needed approval from Bob’s Board of Directors. They did approve his plan, and a three- year contract was put in place. In 2021, the Kiosk was first avail- able at the dock of Lake Chillisquaque on the preserve. It was manned for the summer on the weekends. The first year was a trial-and-error for them as they learned better ways to serve the people. The kiosk was returned for 2022 and the new se- curity system made it more available to visitors as it could be unmanned throughout the week. Here’s how it works: 1) Using your phone, go to the website URL posted at the kiosk. 2) Pick the type of unit you’d like to use and how long you wish to use it; sailing gear, single kayak, tandem kayak, trio kayak, sit- on-tops, sit-ins, paddle boards, or paddle boats are all available. 3) Pay with your credit card 4) A confirmation is sent to your phone with a code to access the gear that is only usable with that transaction. 5) When your time is over, you return the gear to the kiosk. If it is not returned, charges will continue on your credit card until it is returned. NOTE: Although the “self-serve” capabilities of the Kiosk do ex- ist, there is a “lag time” for folks who walk up and want a boat. That lag time can be an hour, possibly more. So, plan ahead, and give them some notice if you want to use the Kiosk’s self-serve capabilities. They can send you your codes for any day and time.
Have you ever seen the “Kayak Kiosk” at the Montour Preserve? Maybe you didn’t know what it was, or that it was there for your use. This little invention came from the mind of David Deco- teau. Dave is an outdoor enthusiast, past Director of the Montour Area Recreation Commission, small business advocate, 30-year businessman, and the owner of Earthscapes Lawn and Garden as well as Riverside Adventure Company. Needless to say, he is very involved in his community and strives to create fun for everyone! About five years ago, Bob Stoudt, Director of the Montour Area Recreation Commission and Montour Preserve, started talking with Dave about making kayaks available at the preserve for public use. A lot of issues needed to be worked out to make this happen. How do they do this and make it financially sound? What about safety and security? And how would it be staffed?
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