Preparations continue for the 25th annual Escape to the Lake, the annual North Dakota adaptive water recreation get-together started by NDAD in the 1990s, set for June 15.

Nelson Lake Recreation Area near Center, in Oliver Couonty northwest of Bismarck and Mandan, once again will be the setting for the popular event.

Escape to the Lake provides adults and children with physical disabilities the opportunity to water-ski using adaptive equipment with support and guidance, take a pontoon ride and enjoy a recreational summer day at a North Dakota lake.

Nelson Lake's water is safely heated by the nearby power plant, thus enabling a more comfortable experience for those participants who may have varying physical challenges.  Between 30 and 60 individuals with physical disabilities typically participate in Escape to the Lake, plus family members, friends and other caregivers.

On-site support in 2018 will be provided by organizer NDAD, Sporting Chance North Dakota, Revolutions Power Sports & Marine, and the Aberdeen (S.D.) Aqua Addicts ski team, which also performs an acrobatic performance ski show during the event.

Participants also will enjoy a complimentary lunch as well as the camaraderie and friendships that develop during the day or renew from past events.

Additional support this year comes from Cass County Electric Cooperative Foundation, Fargo; CircuitGizmos, Mandan; Knutson Printing, Grand Forks; McLean Electric Cooperative Foundation, Garrison; MDU Resources Foundation, Bismarck; Northern Plains Electric Cooperative Operation Round Up, Cando / Carrington; Prairie Patriot, Mandan; Pub 21, Bismarck; Roughrider Electric Cooperative Operation Round Up, Hazen / Dickinson; and Southgate Casino Bar & Grill, Grand Forks.