The Pleasant Prairie Recreation Department recently received four new boats to aid events on the water. Guests visiting Lake Andrea Beach in Prairie Springs Park will see four Encore Electric Watercrafts. The crafts were made possible by a generous contribution from the Pleasant Prairie Convention and Visitors Bureau (PPCVB). The boats add another level of safety for all event participants. Recreation staff will use them on Lake Andrea during open water races, practice swims, and triathlons.
"There are multiple events hosted at Lake Andrea throughout the summer that have a positive economic impact, bringing competitive athletes and tourism to the area," explained Steve Frye, RecPlex Aquatics Manager. "The Pleasant Prairie Recreation Department appreciates the support and contribution from PPCVB that made the four boats possible. I want to personally thank the PPCVB and its board of directors for their investment. The four watercrafts are a wonderful upgrade that will enhance the safety of athletes that travel to the area and compete on Lake Andrea."
The new watercrafts have seats to hold four people and a total weight capacity of 628 lbs. The crafts are made by Nauticraft, constructed from a molded polyethylene material, and feature a battery-powered electric trolling motor that can travel approximately four mph. The boats weigh about 400 lbs., are about 14 feet long, and are nearly 5 feet wide. They sit low on the water, and the limited speed ensures the crafts do not create a disturbing wake for the swimmers competing on the lake.
The Recreation Department at RecPlex hosts numerous nationally recognized and high-level competitive events at Lake Andrea each year, bringing competitive athletes to the area throughout the summer. In addition, Lake Andrea serves the local community by providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, open water swim training, recreation, and more.
