In order to keep our members informed, below is a synopsis of what your Neely Henry Lake Association and its board have recently done, and what is anticipated in the future.
Over the past 7 months, NHLA has taken the lead in coordinating and sponsoring, along with Greater Gadsden Tourism, two first-time-ever events on the Lake. The first was the inaugural Christmas Boat Parade, December, 2016. It was scheduled to coincide with the First Friday event in downtown Gadsden. Although a bit chilly, a number of boats turned out and everyone had a great time!
We also kicked off the first annual Memorial Weekend Boat Parade. Boaters assembled from all over the lake and travelled upriver to Gadsden. All boats were "wearing" their colors of red, white and blue and honoring those fallen in the service of our country. The second annual parade should be even better! Pictures/video may be seen on their respective drop-downs.(Update 6/20/17).
As in past years, the NHLA has worked closely with Alabama Power Company personnel in the placement of over 1,000 Christmas trees for enhancement of fish habitat in Neely Henry Lake. In 2017 and 2018, again partnering with APCO and ADCNR (fisheries), we built and installed 100 "spider blocks"for a more long-lasting structure. See the habitat improvement drop-down on this page for the latest info and pictures.
The NHLA supported, financially and with human resources, in conjunction with the Alabama Power Company, Keep Etowah Beautiful and various counties and municipalities,the annual Renew Our Rivers cleanup effort on Neely Henry Lake. This annual project has received a National Award from Keep America Beautiful. Pictures of this event may be seen by checking drop-down on this page.
A very important project started and supported by your NHLA is the fishing line recycling program. Members of NHLA have built and installed receptacles to be used by fishermen to dispose of used fishing line. We all know the impact that fishing line thrown into the lake can have on fish, wildlife and boat motors and the need to dispose of it properly.
NHLA has installed receptacles at 10 locations, some with multiple receptacles, to be used as recycling stations. Members have "adopted" each site and regularly empty receptacles and properly dispose of fishing line (we have a relationship with a major line manufacturer to take the used line). Thanks to all you volunteers!!
The locations are: below Neely Henry Dam (2), St. Clair County park (Canoe Creek, to be installed when park re-opens), Ten Island boat ramp, Lake Front Boat ramp (Hiway 77), Greensport Marina, Big Head Bait Shop and Marina (Canoe Creek), Rainbow Landing, I-759 bridge (Ray Park), Coosa Landing (3) and Tillison's Bend. (Update 6/24/17).
NHLA Focus