NEW FRANKLIN — A new group has formed to develop recreational activities at Portage Lakes State Park, located off Manchester Road...

The Friends of Portage Lakes State Park Recreation Area, which was formed in May, is a group of volunteers working under the supervision and direction of Portage Lakes State Park Manager Bruce Carpenter.

“Most members are longtime lakers [residents of the Portage Lakes area],” said Rick Wilson, the group’s president and one of the founding members. “Our intent and general mission is to help maintain and develop the resources of the Portage Lakes State Park.”

Founding members also include Lynn Stamp, Larry Hunter and Steve Godar.

Currently, the group maintains the parks’ Kids Zone, which consists of playground equipment installed by the Portage Lakes Advisory Council, as well as the beach and the dog park. They hope to expand the playground and add jumps and toys to the dog park in the future.

Wilson explained the group responds to ideas for projects from park officials and from existing Portage Lakes entities, such as the Purple Martin Club, the Portage Lakes Rowing Association, the Portage Lakes Historical Society, the Portage Lakes Community Council and the Portage Lakes Kiwanis, whose members come to its meeting.

Funding for projects comes from grants and fund-raising efforts, while volunteers supply the labor needed to complete the projects, according to Wilson.

“Once a project is approved, we all work on that project as a team,” he said.

One such project involved the construction of a ramp at the Manor Barn in the state park to create storage area for the Portage Lakes Rowing Association’s 40-foot-long boats last fall.

The group is now working on the construction of bluebird boxes to be installed on hiking trails in the park, as well as the enhancement of those hiking trails. Boys from the YMCA Indian Guide Manikiki Nation will meet this month to construct 25 bluebird boxes, which were paid for by the state park.

“We also hope to raise funds to install an 18-hole disc golf course that would meander through the park,” said Wilson.

The disc golf course is estimated to cost about $10,000, with funding for the project to come from the sale of hole sponsorships, available for $450 each, and grants. Wilson believes the golf course could benefit the city through tournaments that would bring an economic stimulus to local businesses.

In order to accomplish some of the projects, Wilson hopes to create a troop of volunteers similar to what Metro Parks, Serving Summit County and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park have.

“We need to add new members — there is a lot to do,” said Wilson. “You don’t have to live in Portage Lakes to join the club. If you use the park, you are a potential member.”

Membership dues are $15 annually. Anyone interested in volunteering or joining the group may attend a meeting, which takes place on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Portage Lakes State Park Office, located near the entrance to the park. The next meeting will take place Feb. 19.