Editor,

Boat issues are many and confront us frequently. The biggest concerns are: imprudent speed in heavily trafficked areas, non-observance of ‘no-wake’ speed within 200 feet of shoreline, and no adherence to the state’s sound decibel requirements.

Rarely are any of these laws enforced, nor will they be unless more frequent patrols are made by authorized personnel who are willing to issue written warnings initially and subsequent summonses for repeat offenders.

Since the IFW is severely shorthanded, it seems as though other approaches must be utilized. This would mean increased cooperation between local towns to enforce the current state boating laws by use of police, licensed Harbor Masters, and concerned citizens.

Tools (sound decibel meters and GPS devices) should be made available to the authorized people. Citizenry should be encouraged to report boats that are operated at unsafe speeds in a heavily trafficked areas, boats that are excessively loud, and watercraft that ignore the “no-wake” zone. Calls could and should be made to a central clearing house (the warden service, the Cumberland Police Dispatch Office) or a report form describing boat color, registration numbers if possible, time/location could be sent to authorities.

The laws are in place, but boaters should be made aware of them and that the laws will be enforced. Use of permanent signage such as those used by the milfoil prevention groups. Signs could be placed at launches, marinas, and boat sales operations. Pamphlets including a brief synopsis of boating laws and boating “rules of the road” could also be distributed. Education is key, but it has to be backed by knowledge that laws will be enforced.

It is untenable that unsafe boaters should be permitted to take over and deter boaters (fishermen, canoeists, sailors, kayakers, dingies, etc.) that just want to cruise slowly, comfortably and safely. Many small craft users are being intimidated by these unsafe boaters, not to mention those sitting lakeside that have to endure terrible noise and not be able to hear and converse. It is not inexperience by the careless, unsafe boat operators that is at work, but indifference to other boaters and wildlife, and the knowledge that they can continue without reprimand or consequence.

Barbara Lovell

Raymond