Restored Stand Up Paddle Boarding Access at Stone Mountain Park

In August 2010, Stone Mountain Memorial Association (SMMA) enacted a ban on stand up paddle boards at the 14 square mile Stone Mountain Park Lake. Surfrider Foundation Atlanta Chapter approved a “Stand Up For Stone Mountain Lake” campaign and took immediate steps to have the ban lifted. Steve Combs and Greg McMenamy, both attorneys and long-time Surfrider members, met with the CEO and Chief of Police of SMMA. During the meeting, the Atlanta Chapter representatives were able to address SMMA’s concerns regarding safety, impact to the park, and uncertainties regarding water quality. SMMA lifted the ban and also invited the Atlanta Chapter to participate in clean up activities at the park. The success of this campaign was based in large part on Surfrider’s long history of defending public access rights and having the resources to take quick action when needed.