It will be easier getting onto Basswood Island in Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in the not-too-distant future, as crews are going to be rebuilding the island's dock.

Construction to replace the existing dock is to begin in October. As a result, the dock will be closed beginning October 3 until the work is completed.

Lakeshore officials say the new dock will improve access for boaters.  It also utilizes a more sustainable and environmentally friendly design, they add. The area of the dock closest to shore will be constructed with pilings, allowing for flow-through of sediments and minimizing impacts on coastal processes.  This type of design will also reduce sediment build-up, increasing water depth and useable dock space, park officials said.

The area of the dock furthest from shore will be built with bin walls, providing protection for boaters.  The deck of the dock will be concrete, reducing long-term maintenance costs.  Funding is being provided through a highly competitive National Park Service grant for which Apostle Islands staff wrote a successful proposal.

The campsites on Basswood Island will remain open during construction.  However, there will be a construction area surrounding the dock that will be closed to the public.  This area will be marked by construction fencing.