Environment Task Force Newsletter
Ohio State University Extension
Summer, 1997, v1 #2

Boating Environmentally

Gary Comer, Logan County Water Quality Specialist

Erosion of Ohio's shores and beaches is a problem. As a boater, you can help minimize the problem.

Boat wakes -- the wave action created by a moving watercraft -- can stir up sediment and erode the banks of rivers, coves and other confined waterways. Eroded material settles into deeper channels, eventually requiring dredging or preventing boaters from enjoying these backwater areas.

Frequent stirring up of sediments in shallow water interrupts the life cycle of some plants and animals. The muddy water prevents sunlight from reaching underwater plants and makes it difficult for some animals to find food.

Follow these Best Management Practices (BMP's) to help prevent erosion:

• When frequenting shallow waters of 6 feet or less, avoid damaging the ecosystem by going slowly through these areas. Proceeding under power at a slower speed will stir up less sediment.

• Obey "NO WAKE" zones. It is against the law to operate a watercraft at a speed which creates a wake within 300 feet of a harbor, harbor entrance or any area marked "NO WAKE."

• Many boating areas have unmarked "SHORE ZONES." Boaters are required to operate at "NO WAKE" or idle speed in these areas. These zones range from 100 to 300 feet from the shore at state park lakes and vary greatly in other areas. Know the rules at your favorite boating areas.

For more information on safe, environmental boating, contact the Ohio Department of Natural Resources at (614) 265-6565 to request a copy of their "Environmental Boaters' Guide."