After some tinkering and fine-tuning, Ireland came up with two solutions to the challenge of scrambling around slippery boat trailer members.

The first is the Slide Step, a platform that mounts perpendicular to the trailer tongue. Unique is the ability to slide it from center either to the left or the right, providing a stable platform from either side. The second is the Swing Step that mounts on the trailer tongue or a member and pivots to whatever angle a boater might need to launch or load his craft.

Judges at this year's Inventors Congress in Redwood Falls were sufficiently impressed with the devices that he once again was awarded a medal for his efforts.

As is the case with many good ideas, he knows that coming up with an idea sometimes is the easiest part. Then there are patents. "They can take forever," he said.

And in this litigious society, it wouldn't do to have someone breaking his neck on one of the steps. An engineering company had to test their strength. (They will support 300 pounds with an ample safety margin.)

But just getting the product to the marketplace can be the toughest challenge.

One doesn't just walk into the local sporting goods chain store with an armful of product. Nowadays, there is the corporate gauntlet to run through. "And besides, they want to make at least 40 percent," Ireland said.

Ireland is investigating the possibility of enlisting a marine products representative to carry the product to boat dealers.

In the meantime, Ireland's steps are available online.

By the way, as much as he still loves to wet a line, Ireland admits he hasn't been out recently. "Too hot," he said. "Besides, I haven't had time. You really shouldn't start something like this at my age."

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