Dry boat storage, also known as dry stack storage or dry dock storage, has been a popular option for boat owners in Little Elm, Texas for many years. This method of storing boats involves stacking them on racks in a covered facility to protect them from the elements and keep them secure when not in use. The history of dry boat storage in Little Elm is closely tied to the growth and development of the town itself. Little Elm is a small town located on the shores of Lewisville Lake in Denton County, Texas. Originally settled by pioneers seeking fertile land for farming and ranching, it was officially incorporated as a city in 1966. With its close proximity to Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and beautiful lakefront location, Little Elm quickly became a popular destination for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. In the early days of Little Elm's development, boating was primarily done at marinas along Lake Lewisville's shoreline. However, with limited space at these marinas and growing demand from lake visitors and residents alike, alternative options were needed to accommodate the increasing number of boats. Dry boat storage emerged as an attractive solution due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional wet slips at marinas. In 1972, Eagle Point Marina opened as one of Little Elm's first dry stack facilities with room for 700 boats. This marked the beginning of what would become a thriving industry within the town. Over time, more dry stack facilities were developed along Lewisville Lake’s shoreline near Little Elm including Pier 121 Marina (1984), Cottonwood Creek Marina (1995), Hidden Cove Park & Marina (2008), Emerald Sound Marina (2013) among others. These facilities offered various amenities such as fuel docks, ship stores and repair services making it easier for boaters to store their vessels safely while still having access to all necessary services. As more people discovered the convenience and benefits of dry boat storage over traditional wet slips, the demand for these facilities continued to grow. In response, new dry stack developments were built and existing ones expanded. For example, in 2018, Hidden Cove Park & Marina underwent a major expansion project which added an additional 400 boat storage spaces. The popularity of dry boat storage in Little Elm can also be attributed to its location on Lewisville Lake. The lake covers over 29,000 acres and has more than 200 miles of shoreline making it one of the largest lakes in Texas. This vast body of water offers endless opportunities for boating and other water activities such as fishing, skiing and swimming. One significant development that further increased the appeal of dry boat storage was the growth of luxury residential communities around Lewisville Lake including Eldorado Pointe (1996), Lakeside at North Shore (2003) among others. These upscale neighborhoods offered waterfront properties with private docks or access to nearby marinas/dry stack facilities providing residents with convenient options for storing their boats close to home. While dry boat storage has been a successful industry in Little Elm for many years, it hasn't come without challenges. One major challenge faced by these facilities is dealing with weather conditions such as strong winds and storms which can cause damage to boats stored outdoors if not properly secured. To address this issue, some facilities have invested in state-of-the-art technology like automated racks that can move individual boats into enclosed storage during inclement weather. Additionally, regular maintenance and inspections are conducted on racks to ensure they are structurally sound and able to withstand harsh weather conditions. In recent years, there has also been an increasing focus on environmental sustainability within the boating industry as a whole. Dry stack facilities have implemented measures such as recycling programs for oil/fuel containers and using eco-friendly cleaning products to minimize their impact on the surrounding environment. Today, dry boat storage continues to be a popular choice among boaters in Little Elm due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness and protection for their vessels. It has also played a significant role in the growth of the town's economy by attracting tourists and providing employment opportunities. In conclusion, dry boat storage has a rich history in Little Elm that is closely tied to the town's development and growth. From its early beginnings with one marina to multiple facilities today, it has become an essential part of the boating community in Little Elm. As technology continues to advance and environmental sustainability becomes increasingly important, it will be interesting to see how this industry evolves in the future.

Dry boat storage, also known as dry stack storage or indoor boat storage, is a popular method of storing boats that has gained significant traction in recent years. This type of storage offers many benefits to boat owners and marinas alike and has become increasingly prevalent due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness. In this paper, we will delve into the details of dry boat storage – what it is, how it works, its advantages and disadvantages – as well as discuss some key factors to consider when choosing a dry boat storage facility. What is Dry Boat Storage? Dry boat storage refers to the practice of storing boats on land in an enclosed structure rather than keeping them in the water. The boats are typically stacked on top of each other using specialized racks or stands within a warehouse-like building. The whole process involves lifting the boats out of the water with a forklift or crane and placing them carefully onto their designated spot within the facility. How Does Dry Boat Storage Work? The first step in utilizing dry boat storage is finding an appropriate facility equipped with racks or stands suitable for your vessel's size and weight. Once you have secured a spot at the facility, you can schedule your launch day with their staff ahead of time. On launch day, you will arrive at the marina where an attendant will use a special hoist system to lift your boat out from its rack location onto one of their cradles attached to a marine travel lift (a large vehicle used for moving vessels). From there on out until you're ready for another outing on open waters; your vessel will remain safely stored until called upon again. Benefits of Dry Boat Storage 1) Convenience: One major advantage offered by dry stack facilities is convenience. In traditional wet slips (where boats are kept in-water), launching requires extra time before leaving port while returning usually involves washing down salty residue off decks topside then securing mooring lines ashore. With dry boat storage, boaters can simply pull up to the marina and have their vessel lifted out of its designated rack location directly onto a waiting trailer for transport. 2) Cost-Effective: Dry boat storage is a cost-effective option compared to traditional wet slips. In most cases, the cost of dry stack storage is significantly lower than that of keeping a boat in-water. This makes it an attractive option for owners looking to save money on annual maintenance costs. 3) Protection from Elements: Dry stacked boats are stored indoors, providing protection from harsh weather conditions such as high winds, heavy rains, and UV rays that can cause damage to a vessel over time. Additionally, indoor storage keeps your boat free from insects and other pests that may enter through open hatches or vents while docked in the water. 4) Environmental Friendliness: By keeping boats out of the water when not in use, dry stack facilities help reduce pollution caused by leaking fuel tanks or bilge pumps. Also, since there is no need for antifouling paint (which contains toxic chemicals harmful to marine life), dry stored vessels contribute positively towards protecting our oceans' fragile ecosystems. Disadvantages of Dry Boat Storage 1) Size Limitations: One major limitation with dry boat storage is size restrictions. Most facilities can only accommodate boats up to a certain length and weight due to structural limitations within their buildings or racks used for storing vessels. 2) Availability during Peak Season: During peak boating season (typically summer months), demand for dry stack space tends to increase rapidly resulting in limited availability at some locations until fall arrives bringing fewer visitors back into port again once more; so reserve early if possible! 3) Additional Launch Time Required: Unlike wet slip users who just walk down docks readying lines before departure then hop aboard underway; those utilizing this type facility must allow extra time beforehand removing covers off decks topside plus replacing them again after returning then washing down decks topside again before leaving for home. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dry Boat Storage Facility 1) Location: Choose a facility that is conveniently located near your preferred boating destination. This will save you time and fuel costs when transporting your boat between the storage facility and the water. 2) Security: Look for facilities that have adequate security measures in place, such as cameras, fencing, and gate access control systems. You want to ensure that your vessel is safe from theft or damage while stored at the facility. 3) Amenities: Some dry stack facilities offer additional amenities such as on-site maintenance services, fueling stations, and even concierge services. These can be beneficial for owners who want one-stop-shop convenience. 4) Size Restrictions: As mentioned earlier, make sure to check if the facility can accommodate your boat's size and weight before signing up for dry stack storage. It's also essential to consider whether there are any restrictions on what types of vessels are allowed (e.g., sailboats vs. powerboats). 5) Cost: Compare prices among different facilities in your area to find one that fits within your budget without compromising on quality or security measures. Conclusion Dry boat storage has become an increasingly popular method of storing boats due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and protection from elements. However, it's essential to consider factors such as location, security measures in place, amenities offered by the facility before choosing a dry stack storage option suitable for your needs. In conclusion; this type of indoor marine parking offers many benefits over keeping boats moored in-water including lower overall expense plus added protection from bad weather conditions deterioration caused by UV exposure rain storms etcetera ensuring years extended enjoyment out upon open waters!

Dry boat storage in Little Elm, Texas has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The town of Little Elm was founded in 1843 and was primarily an agricultural community until the late 1960s when Lake Lewisville was created. Lake Lewisville is a man-made reservoir on the Trinity River and covers over 29,000 acres of land. It quickly became a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. With the increase in popularity of boating on Lake Lewisville came the need for places to store boats when they were not being used. In the early days of dry boat storage in Little Elm, there were only a few options available. Boat owners could either keep their boats at home or pay to store them at one of the marinas around Lake Lewisville. However, these options had limitations and drawbacks such as limited space at home or high fees at marinas. As more people began owning boats and using them on Lake Lewisville, there became a growing demand for dry boat storage facilities that could accommodate larger numbers of boats while still offering convenience and affordability. The first official dry boat storage facility in Little Elm was opened by Don Brewer in 1985 with just enough space for about 100 boats. This facility quickly filled up due to its convenient location near several major highways leading to Lake Lewisville. In response to this increasing demand, more dry boat storage facilities were built throughout Little Elm over the next few decades by both private companies and local government agencies. These new facilities offered amenities such as valet launching services, security systems, covered slips for protection from weather elements, fueling stations and repair services. Today there are numerous dry boat storage facilities located all around Little Elm providing ample space for thousands of boats each year. In addition to traditional dry stack storage where boats are stored on racks inside large warehouses or buildings away from direct sunlight exposure; some facilities now offer “wet slips” which allow boat owners to store their boats in the water on a floating dock. These wet slips are popular among boat owners who want quick and easy access to Lake Lewisville. In recent years, the town of Little Elm has also made efforts to improve and expand its dry boat storage options by investing in new facilities and updating existing ones with modern amenities. This has helped make Little Elm a top destination for boating enthusiasts from all over Texas. Overall, dry boat storage in Little Elm has played an important role in the town's growth and development as a bustling lake community. It continues to be an essential service for both local residents and visitors who enjoy spending time on Lake Lewisville.

Little Elm, Texas is a charming suburban town located in Denton County, just 40 minutes north of Dallas. With a population of over 50,000 people and growing rapidly, it has become one of the fastest-growing communities in the state. The town is known for its friendly residents, strong sense of community, and beautiful natural surroundings. The history of Little Elm dates back to the mid-1800s when it was first settled by European immigrants who were drawn to the area’s rich farmland and abundant water resources. The name “Little Elm” comes from the small elm trees that grew along Lewisville Lake where many early settlers made their homes. Today, Little Elm boasts a diverse population with a mix of young families and retirees attracted to its affordable housing options and high-quality schools. The median home price in Little Elm is lower than many other cities in North Texas making it an attractive option for those looking to settle down or raise a family. One unique feature that sets Little Elm apart from other suburban towns is its access to water recreation activities on Lewisville Lake. Residents can enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking or simply relaxing on one of its six public beaches. In fact, Little Elm Beach Park has been named as one of the top ten swimming holes in Texas by Travel Channel. In addition to outdoor recreational opportunities on the lakefront, residents also have access to several parks throughout town including Cottonwood Park which features playgrounds and sports fields for all ages. There are also numerous walking trails that wind through neighborhoods connecting them with each other as well as shopping centers and restaurants. Speaking of restaurants - foodies will not be disappointed living in Little Elm! The town offers a variety of dining experiences ranging from casual eateries serving up delicious burgers and tacos to upscale restaurants offering fine dining experiences. One popular spot among locals is Hula Hut which serves up Tex-Mex cuisine with Polynesian flair while overlooking the lake. Little Elm is also home to a thriving local business community with several shopping centers and small businesses scattered throughout town. The Towne Crossing Shopping Center features big-name retailers like Target, Wal-Mart, and Home Depot while downtown Little Elm offers a more eclectic mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and locally-owned restaurants. The town also has a strong commitment to education with its highly-rated school district which includes nine elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. In addition to traditional public schools, there are also private school options available for families seeking alternative educational opportunities for their children. Another noteworthy aspect of living in Little Elm is its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The town’s Sustainability Master Plan outlines initiatives aimed at reducing energy consumption, promoting renewable resources such as solar power, preserving natural habitats and encouraging recycling efforts among residents. Furthermore, Little Elm has an active Parks & Recreation department that organizes various events throughout the year including family-friendly festivals such as Pumpkin Hollow during Halloween season or the annual Fourth of July celebration featuring fireworks over the lake. There are also fitness classes offered at local parks as well as sports leagues for both youth and adults. In recent years, Little Elm has gained national recognition for its quality of life. In 2016 it was ranked in Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live” list due to its affordable housing costs compared to other North Texas cities along with its low crime rate and access to outdoor recreational activities. Additionally, AreaVibes.com gave Little Elm an A+ livability score based on factors such as amenities offered within the town limits (parks, shopping centers), cost of living index compared nationally plus employment rates combined with overall safety ratings — all scoring above average marks! In conclusion - whether you are looking for a peaceful suburban lifestyle close enough to major metropolitan areas or simply want to enjoy lakeside living without sacrificing convenience or affordability - then look no further than Little Elm, Texas. With its strong sense of community, diverse population, commitment to sustainability and abundance of recreational opportunities - it truly is a little town with a big heart.

Dry boat storage, also known as indoor boat storage or dry stack storage, is a modern solution for storing boats out of the water. It has become increasingly popular over the years due to its convenience, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits. But how did this method of storing boats come about? In this paper, we will delve into the history of dry boat storage and trace its evolution from ancient times to the present day. The concept of dry boat storage can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. In these societies, boats were stored on land when not in use to protect them from damage caused by exposure to water and weather elements. However, these early forms of dry storage were rudimentary compared to what we have today. In Europe during medieval times, wooden cradles were used to store small fishing boats on land. These cradles would be placed near shorelines so that fishermen could easily launch their vessels into the water when needed. This practice continued well into the 19th century until larger ships became more prevalent. As technology advanced in the late 19th century with the invention of motorized engines for boats, there was a need for more secure and efficient ways to store vessels out of water. The first modern form of dry boat storage was developed in France in 1889 by Gustav Trouvé who created an underground cable system that lifted yachts out of water using electric motors. However, it wasn’t until after World War II when recreational boating became more widespread that there was a significant demand for proper boat storage facilities. Traditional marinas with wet slips (docks) dominated the market at this time but proved costly and time-consuming for boaters who had to constantly maintain their vessels before each use. Innovative solutions began emerging in America during the mid-20th century as entrepreneurs saw an opportunity in providing safe and convenient ways for boaters to store their vessels. In 1955, a company called Hi & Dry Boat Storage in Florida introduced the first modern dry boat storage facility. They used forklifts and cranes to stack boats on racks inside large warehouses. The concept of stacking boats vertically was further developed by a company called Marine Innovators Inc. (MIINC) in Massachusetts in the late 1960s. MIINC’s system allowed for higher density storage of boats using hydraulic lifts that stacked them on top of one another, significantly increasing capacity. In the 1970s and ‘80s, dry boat storage facilities became more common along coastlines as they proved to be more efficient than traditional marinas with wet slips. This trend continued into the 1990s when advancements were made in technology and materials used for these facilities. Today, there are various types of dry boat storage systems available such as rack-storage buildings, high-rise lift systems, self-stackers, and automated crane systems. Each has its own unique design but all share the same goal – to safely store boats out of water while maximizing space utilization. One significant development in recent years is the use of advanced construction materials such as steel frames coated with epoxy paint or hot-dip galvanization for durability against rusting caused by saltwater exposure. These materials have also allowed for larger structures capable of storing hundreds or even thousands of vessels at once. Aside from convenience and cost-effectiveness, dry boat storage also offers environmental benefits compared to traditional marinas with wet slips. Boats stored out of water do not pollute nearby bodies of water with chemicals from antifouling paints or fuel leaks from their engines. It also reduces erosion caused by constant movement within wet slip areas. In conclusion, dry boat storage has come a long way since its early beginnings in ancient civilizations where basic methods were used to protect boats on land. With advancements in technology and demand from recreational boaters over time, it has evolved into a highly efficient and sophisticated system that benefits both boat owners and the environment. As boating continues to grow in popularity, so too will the demand for dry boat storage facilities around the world.

Dry boat storage is a modern method of storing boats that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It involves keeping boats out of the water and stored on land, typically in a purpose-built facility. The idea of dry boat storage dates back to ancient times when seafarers would pull their boats onto shore to protect them from the elements. This practice continued throughout history, with different methods being used depending on the location and technology available at the time. In the early 20th century, boating became more popular as people began using motorized vessels for recreational purposes. However, storing these larger and heavier boats posed a challenge. Many marinas were not equipped with proper facilities or equipment to lift and store these large vessels out of the water. As demand for dry boat storage increased, marina owners and entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to provide this service. The first dry stack storage facility was built in Miami, Florida in 1939 by Robert Morris Jr., who recognized the need for a safe place to store his own yacht during hurricane season. However, it wasn't until the 1970s that dry boat storage gained widespread recognition as a viable solution for boat owners. With advances in technology and construction materials, new types of buildings were developed specifically designed for storing boats out of water. In addition to providing protection from storms and other natural hazards, dry boat storage also offers convenience for boat owners. They no longer have to worry about cleaning or maintaining their vessel after each use since it is kept out of water where marine growth cannot attach itself. This saves both time and money while also extending the life span of their boats. Today's modern dry stack facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment such as hydraulic lifts that can easily transport boats up several stories high into indoor racks or outdoor stacks. These facilities offer added amenities like fueling stations, repair services, security systems,and even valet launching services making it easier than ever for boat owners to access and enjoy their vessels. Dry boat storage has become a standard in the boating industry, with facilities located all over the world. It continues to evolve and improve as new technology emerges, making it an essential part of the boating community.

Little Elm, Texas is a small town located in the heart of Denton County. It has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s when it was first established as a settlement by pioneers and Native American tribes. Over the years, Little Elm has seen significant growth and development, becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in North Texas. Early Settlement and Development The area where Little Elm sits today was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Wichita, Caddo, Comanche, and Cherokee. These tribes were attracted to the fertile lands surrounding Lewisville Lake (formerly known as Garza-Little Elm Reservoir) for hunting and fishing purposes. In 1841, John Holford became one of the first settlers to establish his homestead near present-day Little Elm. He built a log cabin on an island in Lewisville Lake with his family and named it "Elm Island." The island served as a trading post for local farmers and travelers passing through on their way to Fort Worth. In 1854, William Davis donated land for a schoolhouse which also served as a church on Sundays. This schoolhouse played an essential role in educating children from neighboring communities until its closure during World War II. By the late 1860s, more settlers began moving into what is now known as Little Elm. They primarily engaged in farming cotton crops along with cattle ranching. With improved transportation via railroads connecting Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan areas with other parts of Texas came more people looking for new opportunities; thus contributing to population growth within this region. Growth and Incorporation During this time period (early 1900s), several stores emerged around Main Street along with two churches: Methodist Church & Baptist Church - which still stand today! In addition to these establishments were schools such as Union School District No.28 (later renamed Oak Grove School) & Old Crow Academy, which provided educational opportunities for local children. In 1966, the town of Little Elm was officially incorporated as a city. With this came infrastructure development such as paved roads and establishment of government services. The population steadily grew from around 400 in the early 1970s to over 3,000 by the late 1980s. Modern Development With its proximity to Lewisville Lake, Little Elm has become a popular destination for water sports and outdoor recreation. In recent years, there has been significant growth in commercial and residential developments. This steady growth led to an increase in population reaching over 31,000 residents by 2019. The town's commitment to preserving its history can be seen through various initiatives such as the restoration of historic buildings like "The Old Water Tower," which serves as a symbol of pride for locals and visitors alike. One notable event that put Little Elm on the map is when it became home to FC Dallas (formerly known as Dallas Burn) training facility at Toyota Stadium in Frisco in 2005. This move brought more attention and economic impact to the town with increased tourism and job opportunities. Today, Little Elm continues to grow while maintaining its small-town charm. It offers residents a peaceful suburban lifestyle with access to big-city amenities just a short drive away. Its diverse community is made up of families, young professionals, and retirees who are drawn in by affordable housing options and quality schools within Denton County. Conclusion Little Elm's history reflects its evolution from a small trading post on an island into a thriving city with modern amenities while still holding onto its roots. The preservation efforts taken by locals demonstrate their pride in their past while embracing progress towards the future. As we look back at how far Little Elm has come since its humble beginnings, it is evident that it will continue to thrive and grow into an even more vibrant community filled with opportunity. From Native American tribes hunting and fishing on its shores to families enjoying water sports on Lewisville Lake, Little Elm has always been a place of connection and community. It is this sense of community that makes Little Elm stand out. The town's close-knit atmosphere, combined with its rich history and small-town charm, creates a unique experience for both residents and visitors. Whether it's attending local events like the annual Pumpkin Hollow Festival or supporting the high school football team at Friday night lights, there is always something to do in Little Elm. In conclusion, the history of Little Elm serves as a reminder of how far we have come as a society while also recognizing the importance of preserving our past. As we continue to write new chapters in this town's story, let us not forget the pioneers who first settled here and laid the foundation for what has become an extraordinary community.

Little Elm, Texas is a small town located in Denton County, just 30 miles northwest of Dallas. The town was founded in the late 1800s and has a rich history that reflects its growth from a rural farming community to a bustling suburb. The earliest known inhabitants of the area were Native American tribes such as the Caddo and Comanche, who lived along the banks of Lake Lewisville (formerly known as Garza-Little Elm Reservoir). These tribes used the lake for fishing and hunting before European settlers arrived. In the mid-1800s, pioneers began to settle in what is now Little Elm. One of these early settlers was John L. Howard, who built his home near present-day Main Street in 1854. Other families soon followed suit and formed small communities around Howard's homestead. In 1861, William F. Hall became one of the first postmasters in Little Elm when he opened a post office on his farm. The post office served as an important hub for communication and commerce within the growing community. In 1881, after several unsuccessful attempts at incorporating as a city under different names (including Prairie Mound), residents officially named their town "Little Elm" due to its proximity to Big Elm Creek. At this time, agriculture was still the main source of income for many residents. Wheat fields stretched across much of Little Elm until cotton became more profitable later on. One significant event that impacted Little Elm's development was when construction began on Lake Lewisville Dam in 1927 by Army Corps Engineers. The dam would eventually create Lake Lewisville which provided recreational opportunities like boating and fishing while also serving as a major water supply for surrounding cities including Dallas. As transportation improved with new highways being built throughout North Texas during this time period, more people started moving out of urban areas into suburban towns like Little Elm seeking space outside city limits but still close enough for easy access to the city. The population of Little Elm remained relatively small until the 1970s when suburban development began to take off. The town's proximity to Lake Lewisville and its natural beauty made it an attractive location for new home developments. In 1985, Little Elm was incorporated as a city with a population of just over 800 residents. Since then, Little Elm has experienced rapid growth, with its population increasing from around 3,600 in 2000 to over 50,000 today. This growth has brought many changes to the town, including new businesses and amenities such as shopping centers and parks. Despite this growth and modernization, Little Elm still maintains its small-town charm and close-knit community feel. The town continues to honor its history through annual events like Pioneer Days which celebrate the early settlers of the area. Today, Little Elm is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, top-rated schools, and recreational opportunities on Lake Lewisville. It has become one of the fastest-growing cities in North Texas while still preserving its rich history that dates back over a century.

Dry boat storage, also known as dry stack storage or drystack marinas, has a rich history in the town of Little Elm, Texas. Located on the northern shores of Lake Lewisville, Little Elm is a small but growing community that has long been intertwined with boating and water activities. The development of dry boat storage in Little Elm can be traced back to the 1960s when Lake Lewisville was first created by the completion of a dam on the Elm Fork of Trinity River. The purpose of this project was to provide flood control for the Dallas-Fort Worth area, but it also created a recreational oasis for residents in and around Little Elm. In those early days, there were no designated marinas or facilities for boats on Lake Lewisville. Boaters would simply trailer their vessels to one of several undeveloped areas along the lake's shoreline and launch from there. As more people began flocking to these areas for boating and fishing activities, concerns over safety and environmental impact started emerging. To address these issues, local authorities decided to designate certain parts of the lake as "no-wake zones" where speed limits were strictly enforced. However, this solution did not fully solve the problem as boats still needed somewhere safe to dock when not in use. This led to the birth of wet slips - traditional marina-style docks where boats could be tied up permanently. In addition to providing safer docking options for boaters, wet slips allowed them easy access to their vessels whenever they wanted without having to repeatedly launch and retrieve them from shore. While wet slip marinas became popular among boat owners in Little Elm during this time period, they were not without their challenges. One major issue was that these facilities had limited capacity due to space constraints along Lake Lewisville's shoreline. This meant that many potential customers were turned away due because there simply wasn't enough room at existing marinas. Additionally, maintaining a vessel in a wet slip often required constant maintenance and cleaning to prevent damage from the harsh lake environment. This led many boat owners to seek alternative solutions for storing their boats. The concept of dry stack storage was first introduced in the 1970s as a solution to these issues. Dry stack storage involves stacking boats on racks in a covered warehouse-like building, protecting them from weather and environmental elements when not in use. Boats are lifted into place using specialized machinery, making it easy for boaters to retrieve their vessels whenever they want without having to worry about launch times or scheduling. Dry stack storage offered several advantages over traditional wet slips. First and foremost, it allowed marinas to store significantly more boats within a smaller footprint compared to traditional docks along the shoreline. This meant that more people could enjoy boating on Lake Lewisville without overcrowding at existing facilities. Additionally, dry stacks eliminated the need for constant maintenance since boats were protected from weather and water exposure while stored. The reduced upkeep also meant lower costs for boat owners, making this option much more appealing. In Little Elm specifically, one of the pioneers of dry boat storage was Eagle Point Marina & Boat Club which opened its doors in 1993 with both wet slip and dry stack options available for customers. Over time, other marinas followed suit including Pier 121 Marina and Cottonwood Creek Marina - all of which offer various types of dry stack services today. As Little Elm continued its growth into the late 20th century and early 21st century, so did its demand for recreational activities like boating. As such, new developments focused specifically on offering not just housing but also convenient access to Lake Lewisville's waters began popping up around town. One such development is Sunset Pointe - a master-planned community that includes luxury homes alongside private boat slips at Eagle Point Marina right on Lake Lewisville's shorefront. Other similar communities include Frisco Lakes by Del Webb and Wildridge by K. Hovnanian Homes, both of which offer dry stack boat storage options for residents. Today, dry boat storage continues to be a popular choice among boaters in Little Elm due to its many benefits. It not only offers convenience and cost savings but also contributes to the preservation of Lake Lewisville's natural beauty and environment. In conclusion, the history of dry boat storage in Little Elm is closely intertwined with the town's overall development as well as its love for water activities. From humble beginnings on undeveloped shorelines to state-of-the-art facilities within master-planned communities, dry stack marinas have played an important role in shaping Little Elm into the charming lakeside community it is today.

Introduction: Boating is a popular recreational activity enjoyed by people all over the world. It provides an opportunity to explore the vast waters and enjoy various water activities such as fishing, skiing, or simply cruising. However, owning a boat also comes with its own set of responsibilities, one of which is finding suitable storage options for your vessel. One of the most common methods of storing boats is dry boat storage. This involves keeping the boat out of the water on land in a secure facility. In this paper, we will discuss what dry boat storage is, its benefits and drawbacks, different types available, and factors to consider when choosing a dry boat storage facility. What is Dry Boat Storage? Dry Boat Storage (DBS) or also known as indoor or rack storage is a method used to store boats out of water in enclosed facilities such as warehouses or covered sheds. The concept originated from marinas looking for ways to make more efficient use of their space while providing protection for boats from harsh weather conditions. Benefits of Dry Boat Storage: 1) Protection from Harsh Weather Elements: One significant advantage of dry boat storage is that it protects boats from harsh weather elements like windstorms, hailstorms, snowfall and extreme heat during summers. These conditions can cause damage to exposed vessels leading to expensive repairs. 2) Reduced Maintenance Costs: Storing your boat in dry storage eliminates many maintenance costs associated with keeping it docked in saltwater marinas such as bottom cleaning and painting services required due to marine growth on the hull. 3) Longer Lifespan: Boats stored in DBS last longer compared to those kept moored at docks because they are not constantly exposed to water causing wear and tear. 4) Convenience: With DBS facilities being located near major bodies of water like rivers or lakes where boating activities take place makes it convenient for owners who want quick access without having them towed long distances before launching into open waters. 5) Security: Most dry boat storage facilities have security measures in place to protect boats from theft or vandalism. These include CCTV cameras, security guards, and secure access systems. Drawbacks of Dry Boat Storage: 1) Cost: One significant drawback of dry boat storage is the cost associated with it. It can be expensive compared to other methods of storing vessels like mooring in a marina or keeping them on a trailer. 2) Limited Availability: DBS facilities are not as widely available as marinas or outdoor storage options, making it challenging for boat owners to find suitable locations near their preferred boating areas. 3) Size Limitations: Depending on the type of DBS facility, there may be size limitations for boats that can be stored. This could restrict ownership options for those with larger vessels. Types of Dry Boat Storage Facilities: 1) Rack-Storage Facilities - Also known as high-and-dry stackers, this type involves stacking boats on top of each other inside large warehouses using specialized machinery. The advantage is that they maximize space utilization while providing protection against harsh weather elements. 2) Indoor Sheds - Similar to rack-storage facilities but instead use open floor space within an enclosed shed to store multiple boats side by side without being stacked vertically. They provide better accessibility but require more land area than rack-storage facilities. 3) Covered Carports - These are roofed structures either attached or detached from existing buildings where individual boats are parked side-by-side protected from direct sunlight and precipitation but still open on all sides allowing natural ventilation which prevents mold growth and corrosion issues over time due to trapped moisture typically found in closed environments such as indoor sheds 4) Climate-Controlled Units – For those willing to pay a premium price for maximum protection against environmental conditions damaging their vessel can opt for climate-controlled units offered by some DBS providers with humidity control features and temperature regulation systems installed throughout the entire facility maintaining desired levels year-round. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dry Boat Storage Facility: 1) Location: The location of the DBS facility should be convenient for you in terms of proximity to your boating area and accessibility to major roads. 2) Security: Look for facilities with adequate security measures in place, such as surveillance cameras, secure access systems, and on-site security guards. 3) Cost: As mentioned earlier, dry boat storage can be expensive. It is essential to compare prices between different facilities and consider any additional services or amenities offered that may justify the cost. 4) Amenities: Some DBS facilities offer additional amenities such as boat maintenance and repair services, fueling stations, or even clubhouse facilities. These can add value to your storage experience but may come at an extra cost. 5) Availability: It is crucial to check the availability of space at a DBS facility before committing. Some popular locations may have long waiting lists or limited space available during peak boating seasons. Conclusion: In conclusion, dry boat storage offers numerous benefits such as protection from harsh weather elements, reduced maintenance costs, longer lifespan for boats, convenience and security. However, it also has its drawbacks like high costs and limited availability depending on location and size limitations. When choosing a dry boat storage facility, it is important to consider factors such as location, security measures in place, cost compared with amenities provided and availability of space. By carefully considering these factors along with personal preferences and budget constraints will help ensure finding the best option for storing your vessel safely while maximizing enjoyment out on the water without worry about potential damages when not in use due environmental conditions exposure typically encountered when stored outdoors exposed directly sunlight precipitation present marinas traditional outdoor parking lots trailers used occasional trips local recreational areas nearby bodies water where docking options are available minimal