In upcoming emails and blogs, Wisconsin Lakes will continue to outline why we support the Coalition’s position on reasonable regulation of enhanced wake recreation: 700 feet from shore, 30 feet of depth, maintaining local control (click HERE), and preventing transfer of aquatic invasive species through ballast tanks (click HERE). We will also outline why we believe 100 contiguous acres are needed to ensure recreational safety. This email outlines distance from shore.
What’s the appropriate distance from shore to regulate enhanced wakes?
1.) A distance that does not harm our natural shorelines and the investments made by our riparian owners in docks and lifts.
2.) A distance that allows a safe navigation buffer for recreational users to travel along our shorelines: Paddle sports, swimmers, and fishing enthusiasts.
3.) A distance that allows riparian owners to enjoy their properties and safely access the interior waters of our lakes.
4.) A distance that recognizes the reality that wake boats are getting larger, heavier, and able to create ever larger waves. Enacting an ordinance is a lengthy process for a community.
Why not choose a distance that can help “future-proof” a lake and recognize this reality? 700 feet from shore meets these requirements!
While enforcement challenges are often cited as reasons against shoreline buffers, these challenges should not override concerns about shoreline damage and safety. The proposed rule appropriately directs enhanced wake recreation to lakes capable of supporting it, and current technology—including statewide applications and mapping tools—provides practical means for enforcing distance requirements.
Please review our joint statement with Last Wilderness Alliance (HERE)
Cathie Erickson – Policy Committee Chair
Susan Trier – President
Ben Wojahn – Executive Director
