The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe celebrated the opening of the Dr. Solomon Tehonieion Cook Boat Launch, located at the end of Library Road in Akwesasne, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community reception on Seskehkó:wa/September 8, 2026.
The Boat Launch’s name honors the late Dr. Solomon Tehonieion Cook, a previous owner who intended the land to be used to create a recreational space for community use. The launch features a two-lane concrete boat ramp, a handicap-accessible walkway, a floating dock, parking for passenger vehicles and trailers, and a kayak and canoe launch, providing free public access to the Raquette River.
The St. Lawrence Environment Trustee Council (“Trustee Council”), a multi-agency cooperative in which the Tribe serves as lead administrative trustee, provided construction funds for the project. The Trustee Council administers a settlement fund created in 2013 to address natural resources damages from local hazardous waste sites. The Trustee Council’s goals include restoring the environment and improving recreational opportunities.
Tony David, Environment Division Director for the Tribe and an active member of the Trustee Council, shared, “Access to the water is one of our most fundamental rights as Akwesasro:non.” David added, “The creation of Akwesasne’s first free, public boat launch ensures all of us will have an access point to experience our most precious resource.”
The boat launch opening culminated years of leadership and administrative effort beginning in 2013, which included environmental assessments, public comment periods, an archaeological findings presentation, and this final, monumental step.
“We are thrilled to introduce this beautiful new space for community enjoyment, which also creates another vital river access point for our first responders, enhancing public safety,” shared the Tribal Council, adding, “This project is one of five boat launch projects made possible through this funding, and we are especially proud that one of those launches is right here in Akwesasne.”
The Tribal Council and Executive Director’s Office express their gratitude to the St. Lawrence River Trustee Council, our Environment Division, Planning and Infrastructure, and the many Tribal departments and team members for all the hard work in turning the shared vision into reality.