Laurel’s new kayak and canoe launch will be officially christened this Thursday, May 26 at 10 a.m. The launch, located on the south bank of Broad Creek at Popular Street, was built by the Laurel Rotary Club.

The celebration will be held in conjunction with Delaware Technical and Community College’s Road Scholar partner program – “Delaware Coastal Exploration: A Hike, Bike and Paddle Adventure” presented by expert Jim Rapp from May 22-27. Jim, an outdoor enthusiast with an extensive nature and heritage tourism background, will lead the multi-day program which includes adventures throughout Sussex County.

After the dedication of the Rotary launch in Laurel, the Road Scholar group will set out on a Broad Creek paddle followed by lunch at Abbotts Grill and an exploration of Trap Pond State Park.   DelTech’s Jack F. Owens Campus has partnered with Road Scholar since 1991 and operates 20 Road Scholar programs a year.

The Rotary Community Kayak and Canoe Launch is located at the Poplar Street Bridge along Broad Creek, a tributary of the Nanticoke River, and is open to the public.    Laurel is also working with Delmarva Board Sports to host kayak and paddle board rentals at the launch throughout the summer.