In an effort to expand the growing list of accessible features on public lands, the Michigan DNR and Onekama Township will temporarily close the Portage Lake boating access site in Manistee County to construct new amenities.

The DNR says the anticipated two-day closure will take place Wednesday and Thursday, June 29-30.

Onekama Township was awarded $75,900 from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund to install a new accessible kayak and canoe launch system and accessible parking spaces. Additional funding came from the Portage Lake Association and a grant from the Portage Lake Watershed Forever Annual Fund administered by the Manistee County Community Foundation.

The accessible EZ Launch kayak and canoe launch system, with a sliding bench and grab-bar feature, is designed to make it easier to get kayaks or canoes in and out of the water. Visitors can pull themselves into the water using side rails and rollers.

The DNR says paddlers can use the Onekama Village Park boat launch, located on the north side of Portage Lake, as an alternative access site during the closure.