Speed restrictions in seasonal management areas help protect right whales from ship strikes
Starting Sunday, Nov. 15, in waters off the U.S. Southeast coast, federal regulations will require vessels 65 feet or greater to slow down in the areas where North Atlantic right whales migrate, calve and nurse, as year two of the Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction Rule goes in effect.
The speed restrictions have been in effect in waters referred to in the rule as the U.S. Mid-Atlantic since Nov. 1.
The Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction Rule restricts vessels of 65 feet or greater to speeds of 10 knots or less in seasonal management areas along the East Coast. The speed restrictions, which are based on the migration pattern of the right whale, apply in areas from Rhode Island to Brunswick, Ga., Nov. 1-April 30 and from Brunswick, Ga., to St. Augustine, Fla., Nov.15-April 15. Maps of these areas and a compliance guide are available at www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/shipstrike.
The rule is designed to reduce the chances of right whales being injured or killed by ships. Right whales, which are protected under the U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973 and the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, are among the most endangered whales in the world, with fewer than 400 still in existence. Their slow movements combined with time spent at the surface and near the coast make them highly vulnerable to human activities, especially being struck by ships.
“The North Atlantic right whale remains highly depleted, and ship strikes are one of the major threats,” said Jim Balsiger, acting assistant administrator for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association’s National Marine Fisheries Service. “We need all mariners entering U.S. ports to be aware of and adhere to these vessel speed restrictions. It is vital to the recovery of this species.”
NOAA Office of Law Enforcement and U.S. Coast Guard work together to enforce the Right Whale Ship Strike Reduction Rule. Failure to comply with the rule is a violation of the ESA and MMPA, and violators can be cited and fined.
“We're alerting vessel operators of these important regulations in an effort to improve compliance and reduce collisions,” said NOAA Special Agent Todd Nickerson of the New Bedford, Mass., field office. “We are trying to educate as many people as we can."
The mission of NOAA OLE is to ensure compliance with the laws and regulations enacted to conserve and protect our nation’s marine resources. To report a suspected violation, including vessels greater than 65 feet going faster than 10 knots in these seasonal management areas, please call the national hotline at 1-800-853-1964.
NOAA
Office of Law Enforcement
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
2010 Boat Shows
Whether you're shopping for a new boat or just looking at what's new in the boating world, a boat show is a convenient place to see various manufactures for excellent side by side comparisons. They're also a great place to see the latest in electronics and other boating gear and accessories.
Many boat shows also feature seminars ranging from fishing to navigation. Visit with many of the non-profit organizations to learn more about the environment or boat safety.
Click on the the link below to see a current list of boat shows in your area courtesy of Discover Boating.
Boat Show Calendar
Many boat shows also feature seminars ranging from fishing to navigation. Visit with many of the non-profit organizations to learn more about the environment or boat safety.
Click on the the link below to see a current list of boat shows in your area courtesy of Discover Boating.
Boat Show Calendar
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Propeller doesn't injure sea life
It can do for boats what seat belts did for cars.
And from now on the creator of this innovative device, Blacks Beach man Colin Chamberlain, said he hoped it would save hundreds of human lives and tens of thousands of marine animals every year...
Propeller doesn't injure sea life | Mackay News | Local News in Mackay | Mackay Daily MercuryRecession sinks Century Boat Company
PANAMA CITY — Century Boat Co. will stop manufacturing boats in Panama City, surprising employees who thought the company was making a comeback this year.
PC loses boat manufacturer | panama, city, longer - News - The News Herald
PC loses boat manufacturer | panama, city, longer - News - The News Herald
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Pirates of Colonial America Exhibit Premiering at Three 2010 NMMA Boat Shows
Exhibit Gives Visitors of All Ages Their Sea Legs with Interactive Fun
Chicago, IL
CONTACT: Dana Fennewald (dfennewald@nmma.org; 312-946-6256)
CHICAGO, November 23, 2009 -- The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) announced today the premiere of the Pirates of Colonial America exhibit at three of its 2010 boat shows. The exhibit will offer an interactive and educational attraction that can be enjoyed by the entire family and provides added value to the boat show experience.
The new exhibit offers a host of interactive features and gives visitors the opportunity to learn how pirates played an active role in early Colonial America – from selling the colonists inexpensive untaxed goods, to the start of the first North American college. Historical researchers, authors and veteran museum coordinators John Moga and Jon Paul Van Harpen created this visually compelling exhibit to highlight the Pirates’ journey throughout the Revolutionary War.
“For years, visitors have come to NMMA boat shows for an experience the entire family can enjoy,” said Ben Wold, executive vice president of NMMA. “The Pirates of Colonial America exhibit offers a special uniqueness to these three shows, allowing visitors to learn more about the history of pirates and boating in an exciting, interactive atmosphere.”
The exhibit will be featured at the following NMMA shows in 2010: Kansas City Boat & Sportshow, Jan. 7–10.; Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show, Jan.13–17 and Minneapolis Boat Show, Jan. 20–24.
For additional information regarding NMMA or to view a calendar of upcoming shows, visit NMMA.org.
About NMMA: National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is the leading association representing the recreational boating industry in North America. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters and anglers throughout the U.S. and Canada. The association is dedicated to industry growth through programs in public policy advocacy, market statistics and research, product quality assurance and promotion of the boating lifestyle. For more information, visit www.nmma.org.
Monday, November 16, 2009
NOAA Releases Expanded World Ocean Database
November 16, 2009
NOAA today released the World Ocean Database 2009, the largest, most comprehensive collection of scientific information about the oceans with records dating as far back as 1800. This product is part of the climate services provided by NOAA.
The 2009 database, updated from the 2005 edition, is significantly larger providing approximately 9.1 million temperature profiles and 3.5 million salinity reports. The 2009 database also captures 29 categories of scientific information from the oceans, including oxygen levels and chemical tracers, plus information on gases and isotopes that can be used to trace the movement of ocean currents.
“There is now more data about the global oceans than ever before,” said Sydney Levitus, director of the World Data Center for Oceanography, which is part of NOAA’s National Oceanographic Data Center. “Previous databases have shown the world ocean has warmed during the last 53 years, and it’s crucial we have reliable, accurate monitoring of our oceans into the future.”
Climate scientists use the World Ocean Database to track changing conditions which adds to the international science community's understanding of global climate change. Forecast centers, such as NOAA’s Ocean Prediction Center, also use the information for quality control of real-time oceanographic information.
The database is a crucial part of the Integrated Ocean Observing System and the Global Earth Observation System of Systems, or GEOSS, as a reliable source of oceanic information. The information was compiled by scientists at the Ocean Climate Laboratory, part of the NOAA Satellite and Information Service.
NOAA understands and predicts changes in the Earth’s environment—from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun—and conserves and manages our coastal and marine resources.Thursday, November 12, 2009
NOAA Deploys New ‘Smart Buoy’ off Annapolis
November 11, 2009
Seventh in a series of “smart buoys” deployed to monitor weather conditions and water quality in the Chesapeake Bay.
High resolution (Credit: NOAA)
NOAA deployed the seventh in a series of “smart buoys” to monitor weather conditions and water quality in the Chesapeake Bay today. The buoy, located at the mouth of Severn River near Annapolis, Md., will be used by commercial and recreational boaters to navigate safely and provide data for educators and scientists to monitor the Bay's changing conditions.
Like the other six buoys in the Chesapeake Bay Interpretive Buoy System, it will collect weather, oceanographic, and water quality observations and transmit the data wirelessly to users in near-real time. Observations from the buoys, as well as historical and seasonal information about the Bay and educational resources, are available online and by phone at 877-BUOY-BAY (877-286-9229).
Bay restoration is a high priority for many area officials and planners, who also recognize the important role scientific data and tracking observations play in restoration efforts.
“This system of high-technology buoys protects lives and property by providing real-time weather, tide, and current information that is also used to improve forecasts and warnings for boaters and neighbors in the Chesapeake Bay. I will keep fighting to put funds in the federal checkbook for critical investments like these that protect boaters, watermen and the Bay,” said Sen. Barbara Mikulski, Chairwoman of the Commerce, Justice and Science Committee that funds NOAA.
Deployment of this observational buoy comes just two days after federal agencies made a draft of their strategy to tackle Bay cleanup available for public comment. On Monday, officials released a draft strategy to accelerate Bay restoration in accordance with President Obama’s Executive Order on the Chesapeake Bay. These buoys are an essential component of the monitoring and decision-support technologies called for in the strategy.
“I recently introduced legislation that calls for aggressive action to restore the Bay to health and sustainability,” said Sen. Benjamin Cardin, a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee. “I particularly want to commend NOAA for its monitoring and observing system in the Bay. This new buoy in Annapolis will be joining other monitors along the Captain John Smith Trail as a way to help Marylanders and all Americans understand and appreciate the unique history, culture and environment of the Bay.”
Since 2007, the system’s existing buoys have been deployed at the mouths of the Potomac, Patapsco, Susquehanna, and Rappahannock Rivers, and in James River off Jamestown, Va., and in the Elizabeth River off Norfolk.
“The NOAA buoys are an incredible asset for scientists and boaters, but also a tool to help educate our next generation of Chesapeake Bay stewards,” said Rep. John Sarbanes. "I am proud to have fought for the resources to deploy and maintain them.”
Each of the buoys also marks a site along the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail.
“We are delighted that the Annapolis buoy will allow modern day-explorers on the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail to learn about the Chesapeake's rich history and its treasured landscapes," said David O'Neill, President of the Friends of the John Smith Chesapeake Trail.
The NOAA Chesapeake Bay Office focuses NOAA’s capabilities in science, service, and stewardship to protect and restore the Chesapeake Bay.
NOAA understands and predicts changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and conserves and manages our coastal and marine resources.
NOAA - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - NOAA Deploys New ‘Smart Buoy’ off Annapolis
Friday, October 23, 2009
Cold Water Increases Risk of Boating Fatalities
Cold water shock is a leading killer of boaters in Pennsylvania. It is caused by sudden immersion into water less than 70 degrees Fahrenheit. With water temperatures now falling into the 50 degree range, sudden immersion can kill a boater within seconds of submersion. The PFBC encourages boaters to be safe on the water by wearing their life jackets.
“Too many people are dying because they don’t recognize the danger of cold water,” PFBC Boating and Access Director Dan Martin said. “Year after year, it’s the same story. Someone falls overboard or capsizes their small motorboat, canoe or kayak and drowns because of the effects of cold water shock.” Cold water shock causes an involuntary reflexive torso gasp. The victim will commonly inhale water, become disoriented, panic, and lose the ability to swim. “It is very common for even strong swimmers to go under very quickly in cold water,” Martin said. “They don’t have time to get hypothermia, another dangerous condition brought on by the cold; they drown too quickly f or hypothermia to be a factor.”
“The sad thing is that all boating fatalities are preventable,” Martin said. The number one way to be safe on the water is to wear a life jacket. Eighty percent of all recreational boating fatalities could be prevented if the victim had been wearing a Coast Guard approved life jacket at the time of the accident.
Visit the PFBC’s website at www.fishandboat.com to learn more about safe boating.
BE SAFE. WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET.
The mission of the Fish and Boat Commission is to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit our website at www.fishandboat.com.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Angling for access - Outdoors/fishing - ESPN
Angling for access - Outdoors/fishing - ESPN
With the recent creation of a federal Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force anglers are concerned about the future availability of their favorite waters, both freshwater and saltwater according to leaders in the recreational fishing industry.
Shared via AddThis
With the recent creation of a federal Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force anglers are concerned about the future availability of their favorite waters, both freshwater and saltwater according to leaders in the recreational fishing industry.
Shared via AddThis
Boat Operations and Training (BOAT) Program: training, qualification, credentialing and typing of maritime law enforcement and rescue personnel - National Association of State Boating Law Administrators
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Tips on Hurricane Preparation
| NEWS from BoatUS Boat Owners Association of The United States 880 S. Pickett St., Alexandria, VA 22304 BoatUS News Room at www.BoatUS.com |
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Contact: Scott Croft, 703-461-2864, SCroft@BoatUS.com |
| Get Inside Tips on Hurricane Preparation: Marinas and Clubs Tell Their Success Stories in New BoatUS Publication |
ALEXANDRIA, Va., September 28, 2009 -- A new online publication for marina, boat yard and yacht club managers outlines proven techniques that could greatly reduce damage to their boating facilities whenever a hurricane strikes. The 24-page What Works, A Guide to Preparing Marinas, Yacht Clubs, and Boats for Hurricanes shares success stories as well as failures of dozens of marinas and clubs that have experienced a hurricane over last two decades. The guide is published by Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), a national recreational boating advocacy organization that also offers marine insurance and has an industry-leading hurricane response team. “Any time a major hurricane has struck the US, our BoatUS Marine Insurance Catastrophe Team has hit the ground running, salvaging boats and processing claims,” said BoatUS Damage Avoidance Director Bob Adriance. “This has given them a unique inside look at the damage inflicted upon a variety of marinas and yacht clubs. So we asked our team to identify those facilities that have consistently fared well, often lessening or even eliminating damage to docks and boats. This guide includes the best practices and strategies learned from those marinas.” The guide covers floating docks with tall pilings, strapping down boats ashore, developing hurricane clubs for customers and club members, dealing with boats at fixed docks, moving boats to hurricane holes, and how to install better moorings. A special legal notes section, “Protecting Yourself from the Storm,” offers information equally important to any marina owner or yacht club leadership — how to protect themselves from vessel owners seeking compensation for hurricane-related damage. Also included is a sample Marina Hurricane Preparation Plan that can be customized for any boating facility, as well as a Hurricane Preparation Worksheet that can be copied and given to individual boat owners. A special advertising section featuring hurricane damage avoidance products is also included. To download a copy of the guide, go to www.BoatUS.com/hurricanes . To get a paper copy, call 703-823-9550 ext. 3525. ### BoatUS is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 600,000 members with government representation, programs and money saving services. For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628. |
PA FISH AND BOAT COMMISSION ANNOUNCES BASIC BOATING COURSE
Allentown, PA – Peters Marine Service will be hosting a Basic Boating Course instructed by the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission on October 10th and October 17th, 2009. The course will be held from 9:00am to 1:00pm each day. There is no charge for the course. All participants must pre-register and must attend both sessions. Please call Peters Marine Service at 610-433-1606 or email bobby@petersmarine.com to register. The Basic Boating Course is designed to supply boaters with practical information so they can make better informed decisions on the water. Instructors will provide students with information via a classroom setting to help them reduce the risk of injury and conflict on the water. Students who successfully complete the course may apply for a Boating Safety Education Certificate for a $10 fee. The certificate is required of all operators of personal watercraft (PWCs) or anyone born on or after January 1, 1982 who operates a motorboat of more than 25 horsepower. More information about this course or boating safety can be found by visiting the Commission's website at www.fish.state.pa.us.
The mission of the Fish and Boat Commission is to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit our website at www.fishandboat.com.
The mission of the Fish and Boat Commission is to protect, conserve, and enhance the Commonwealth’s aquatic resources and provide fishing and boating opportunities. For more information about fishing and boating in Pennsylvania, please visit our website at www.fishandboat.com.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
First Annual Jersey Shore Boat Sale & Expo
The Marine Trades Association of New Jersey (MTA/NJ) is holding the First Annual Jersey Shore Boat Sale & Expo on September 18-20, 2009 at FirstEnergy Park, Lakewood, NJ. For more information, including an exhibitor list, hours and directions visit their website at: Jersey Shore Boat Show and Expo
Friday, August 28, 2009
Lack of boater education linked to rise in recreational boating fatalities
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary has expressed concern over statistics reporting a rise in recreational boating fatalities in a recently released publication of the 2008 boating safety statistics.
The fatality rate, a measure of the number of deaths against the number of registered recreational boats, increased from 5.3 in 2007 to 5.6 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational boats in 2008. During this time, the Coast Guard recorded 709 deaths, 3,331 injuries and approximately $54 million dollars in damage to property, stemming from 4,789 recreational boating accidents.
Operator inattention, careless or reckless operation, no proper lookout, operator inexperience and passenger or skier behavior rank as the top five contributing factors to recreational boating accidents.
Alcohol consumption continues to be of major concern in fatal boating accidents and is listed as the leading contributing factor in 17 percent of the deaths.
Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, the Coast Guard's director of prevention policy, emphasized the importance of boating education saying, "The 2008 report shows a clear link between safety and boating education by highlighting that only 10 percent of deaths occurred on boats where the operator had received boating safety education. This statistic indicates that boaters who have taken a boating safety course are less likely to be involved in an accident. In addition, two-thirds of all fatal boating accident victims drowned; and of those, 90 percent were not wearing a life jacket. The Coast Guard urges all boaters, whether as an operator or passenger, to take a boating safety course and to always wear your life jacket."
For seventy years the Coast Guard Auxiliary has provided boater education to the American boating public. Courses are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors committed to the highest standards of the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information about Coast Guard Auxiliary boater education course please visit http://www.cgaux.org/boatinged/. In addition to boater education courses the Auxiliary also offers free Vessel Safety Checks. (http://www.cgaux.org/vsc/)
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary, America's Volunteer Guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service's missions.
To view the 2008 recreational boating safety statistics, go to: http://www.uscgboating.org/statistics/accident_stats.htm
For more information on boating responsibly, go to http://www.uscgboating.org/.
The fatality rate, a measure of the number of deaths against the number of registered recreational boats, increased from 5.3 in 2007 to 5.6 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational boats in 2008. During this time, the Coast Guard recorded 709 deaths, 3,331 injuries and approximately $54 million dollars in damage to property, stemming from 4,789 recreational boating accidents.
Operator inattention, careless or reckless operation, no proper lookout, operator inexperience and passenger or skier behavior rank as the top five contributing factors to recreational boating accidents.
Alcohol consumption continues to be of major concern in fatal boating accidents and is listed as the leading contributing factor in 17 percent of the deaths.
Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, the Coast Guard's director of prevention policy, emphasized the importance of boating education saying, "The 2008 report shows a clear link between safety and boating education by highlighting that only 10 percent of deaths occurred on boats where the operator had received boating safety education. This statistic indicates that boaters who have taken a boating safety course are less likely to be involved in an accident. In addition, two-thirds of all fatal boating accident victims drowned; and of those, 90 percent were not wearing a life jacket. The Coast Guard urges all boaters, whether as an operator or passenger, to take a boating safety course and to always wear your life jacket."
For seventy years the Coast Guard Auxiliary has provided boater education to the American boating public. Courses are taught by experienced and knowledgeable instructors committed to the highest standards of the U.S. Coast Guard. For more information about Coast Guard Auxiliary boater education course please visit http://www.cgaux.org/boatinged/. In addition to boater education courses the Auxiliary also offers free Vessel Safety Checks. (http://www.cgaux.org/vsc/)
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed volunteer component of the United States Coast Guard created by an Act of Congress in 1939. The Auxiliary, America's Volunteer Guardians, supports the Coast Guard in nearly all of the service's missions.
To view the 2008 recreational boating safety statistics, go to: http://www.uscgboating.org/statistics/accident_stats.htm
For more information on boating responsibly, go to http://www.uscgboating.org/.
BoatUS Reports Recreational Boating Traffic Flat
BoatUS Reports Recreational Boating Traffic Flat,
But More Boaters Using On-The-Water Towing
ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 24, 2009 – The summer of the great economic downturn continues to have an effect on recreational boating, says the nation’s largest recreational boat owners group. On-the-water boat towing and ungrounding services provided to members of Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) were up 8% at the midsummer mark, when compared to 2008. “Boaters have less money in their wallets this year, which translates to fewer outings, less maintenance, and an increase in calls for on-the-water assistance,” said BoatUS Towing Service Vice President Jerry Cardarelli. The Association’s BoatUS Towing Service operates a fleet of 600 TowBoatUS and Vessel Assist towing vessels across the country.
Good weather and lower gas prices, which typically lead to an increase in overall boating traffic, have been offset by the recession. “Except for the Northeast, weather has generally been good, and fuel prices remain around $3.50 per gallon at the fuel dock, down about a dollar or so from last summer’s highs. But the economy has been a bigger factor,” added Cardarelli.
A May 2009 survey of BoatUS members foreshadowed today’s news. When asked how they planned to use their boat this summer, about half of the respondents said they would reduce cruising distances, stay closer to home and reduce the number of boating trips/days, among other cost-cutting measures. “The middle class is boating’s bread and butter, and like everyone else, these families are feeling the strain on their budget for discretionary activities,” added Cardarelli.
“However, breakdowns can be costly, and experienced boaters know it’s prudent to have an on-the-water towing plan that will safely get you home — with your wallet intact,” added Cardarelli. Much like an auto club, BoatUS Towing Services offers “unlimited” towing plans for boaters starting at just $34 year. Without a towing plan, the national average out-of-pocket cost for a tow is about $600.
For membership and towing information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-888-4869.
But More Boaters Using On-The-Water Towing
ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 24, 2009 – The summer of the great economic downturn continues to have an effect on recreational boating, says the nation’s largest recreational boat owners group. On-the-water boat towing and ungrounding services provided to members of Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) were up 8% at the midsummer mark, when compared to 2008. “Boaters have less money in their wallets this year, which translates to fewer outings, less maintenance, and an increase in calls for on-the-water assistance,” said BoatUS Towing Service Vice President Jerry Cardarelli. The Association’s BoatUS Towing Service operates a fleet of 600 TowBoatUS and Vessel Assist towing vessels across the country.
Good weather and lower gas prices, which typically lead to an increase in overall boating traffic, have been offset by the recession. “Except for the Northeast, weather has generally been good, and fuel prices remain around $3.50 per gallon at the fuel dock, down about a dollar or so from last summer’s highs. But the economy has been a bigger factor,” added Cardarelli.
A May 2009 survey of BoatUS members foreshadowed today’s news. When asked how they planned to use their boat this summer, about half of the respondents said they would reduce cruising distances, stay closer to home and reduce the number of boating trips/days, among other cost-cutting measures. “The middle class is boating’s bread and butter, and like everyone else, these families are feeling the strain on their budget for discretionary activities,” added Cardarelli.
“However, breakdowns can be costly, and experienced boaters know it’s prudent to have an on-the-water towing plan that will safely get you home — with your wallet intact,” added Cardarelli. Much like an auto club, BoatUS Towing Services offers “unlimited” towing plans for boaters starting at just $34 year. Without a towing plan, the national average out-of-pocket cost for a tow is about $600.
For membership and towing information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-888-4869.
Boat Wakes Make People Angry
Boat Wakes Make People Angry - And Can Injure
ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 26, 2009 – Boat wakes — those long, frothy, V-shaped waves trailing from the stern of a powerboat as it slices through the water — have a sinister side. When other vessels encounter them, they can hurt people. They can make people angry, and they can bring the wrath of law enforcement, for good reason.
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) recently looked into the issue of boat wakes by combing through the insurance claims case files, where swampings, broken teeth, and back injuries are found. “You avoid being the recipient of gestures from other skippers by using a little common sense and courtesy,” says BoatUS Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance. “This means coming completely off plane when you enter a no wake zone or anywhere your wake could compromise the safety of other boats,” he adds.
Here are some tips to help prevent boat wake injuries to you and other boaters:
Slow early: Boat wakes travel distances, so slow down before you reach a slow-speed zone, not as you pass the marker.
Just a little slowing down isn’t good enough: Upon entering a no wake zone, some boaters react by only slowing the vessel slightly, and then plow through with the bow way up and stern dug down, actually increasing the wake. Come completely off plane.
Make her level: Without using trim tabs, a slowed vessel should be level in the water. With some smaller boats, shifting passengers around can help, as too much weight aft increases wake size.
Watch the shallows: Shallow water increases wake size.
Small boats aren’t innocent: Wakes are not just a big boat issue — small vessels in the stern-down position can throw surprisingly large wakes.
When approaching a wake, slow down but don’t stop: Motorboats are more stable when underway, so stopping could make things worse. Avoid taking a wake on the beam or head on. The best approach is at a slight angle. This will keep your passengers in your boat.
Take care of older crew: The BoatU.S. insurance claims files show that persons over the age of 50 have the most personal injuries, mostly as a result of being seated near the bow when the boat slams into a wake. It’s best to seat passengers — especially older passengers — amidships.
Warn the crew: A simple “Hold-on. Boat wake” should do the trick, just as long as you shout the warning well before the wake arrives.
###
BoatUS – Boat Owners Association of The United States – is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 600,000 members with government representation, programs and money saving services. For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.
ALEXANDRIA, Va., August 26, 2009 – Boat wakes — those long, frothy, V-shaped waves trailing from the stern of a powerboat as it slices through the water — have a sinister side. When other vessels encounter them, they can hurt people. They can make people angry, and they can bring the wrath of law enforcement, for good reason.
Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) recently looked into the issue of boat wakes by combing through the insurance claims case files, where swampings, broken teeth, and back injuries are found. “You avoid being the recipient of gestures from other skippers by using a little common sense and courtesy,” says BoatUS Director of Damage Avoidance Bob Adriance. “This means coming completely off plane when you enter a no wake zone or anywhere your wake could compromise the safety of other boats,” he adds.
Here are some tips to help prevent boat wake injuries to you and other boaters:
Slow early: Boat wakes travel distances, so slow down before you reach a slow-speed zone, not as you pass the marker.
Just a little slowing down isn’t good enough: Upon entering a no wake zone, some boaters react by only slowing the vessel slightly, and then plow through with the bow way up and stern dug down, actually increasing the wake. Come completely off plane.
Make her level: Without using trim tabs, a slowed vessel should be level in the water. With some smaller boats, shifting passengers around can help, as too much weight aft increases wake size.
Watch the shallows: Shallow water increases wake size.
Small boats aren’t innocent: Wakes are not just a big boat issue — small vessels in the stern-down position can throw surprisingly large wakes.
When approaching a wake, slow down but don’t stop: Motorboats are more stable when underway, so stopping could make things worse. Avoid taking a wake on the beam or head on. The best approach is at a slight angle. This will keep your passengers in your boat.
Take care of older crew: The BoatU.S. insurance claims files show that persons over the age of 50 have the most personal injuries, mostly as a result of being seated near the bow when the boat slams into a wake. It’s best to seat passengers — especially older passengers — amidships.
Warn the crew: A simple “Hold-on. Boat wake” should do the trick, just as long as you shout the warning well before the wake arrives.
###
BoatUS – Boat Owners Association of The United States – is the nation’s leading advocate for recreational boaters providing its 600,000 members with government representation, programs and money saving services. For membership information visit www.BoatUS.com or call 800-395-2628.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
2009 Storm Names
The National Weather Service's names for the 2009 Atlantic tropical storms:
Ana
Bill
Claudette
Danny
Erika
Fred
Grace
Henri
Ida
Joaquin
Kate
Larry
Mindy
Nicholas
Odette
Peter
Rose
Sam
Teresa
Victor
Wanda
Ana
Bill
Claudette
Danny
Erika
Fred
Grace
Henri
Ida
Joaquin
Kate
Larry
Mindy
Nicholas
Odette
Peter
Rose
Sam
Teresa
Victor
Wanda
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Requirements for PFD Use in NY Changed
Life Jacket Wear Requirements
Beginning November 1, 2009, Section 40, Subdivision 1 of the Navigation Law shall be amended by adding new paragraph (e), which reads as follows:
No owner or operator of a pleasure vessel less than twenty-one feet, including rowboats, canoes, and kayaks shall permit its operation, between November first and May first, unless each person on board such vessel is wearing a securely fastened United States Coast Guard approved wearable personal flotation device of an appropriate size when such vessel is underway.
Failure to wear a lifejacket on such vessels will be considered a violation under Section 73-c if the Navigation Law and is punishable by a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $250, applicable to either the operator and/or the owner of the vessel.
Beginning November 1, 2009, Section 40, Subdivision 1 of the Navigation Law shall be amended by adding new paragraph (e), which reads as follows:
No owner or operator of a pleasure vessel less than twenty-one feet, including rowboats, canoes, and kayaks shall permit its operation, between November first and May first, unless each person on board such vessel is wearing a securely fastened United States Coast Guard approved wearable personal flotation device of an appropriate size when such vessel is underway.
Failure to wear a lifejacket on such vessels will be considered a violation under Section 73-c if the Navigation Law and is punishable by a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $250, applicable to either the operator and/or the owner of the vessel.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
24th Annual International Coastal Cleanup
Ocean Conservancy's 24th Annual International Coastal Cleanup to be Held Saturday, September 19th: Online Registration Opens with 2,500 Cleanup Sites Around the World, Thousands More to be Added Soon
Sign up to Clean up! Locate a Cleanup site near you and join the hundreds of thousands of volunteers around the world Start a Sea Change this September
Media Contact: Tom McCann
August 4, 2009
(Washington DC) — Today, Ocean Conservancy announces a new searchable online registration system for the International Coastal Cleanup helping volunteers find a Cleanup site in their hometown. The International Coastal Cleanup is the world's largest volunteer effort to help protect the ocean. Last year, nearly 400,000 volunteers hit their local beaches, lakes, and rivers with a common mission of improving the health of the ocean and waterways. On one day, they removed and tallied 6.8 million pounds of debris, from 6,485 sites in 100 countries and 42 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. To find a 2009 Cleanup site near you visit: www.oceanconservancy.org and search on a world map or by town or zip code.
"The ocean is our life support system yet marine debris continues to threaten its health. We know that trash travels. Wherever we live, each of us has a responsibility to prevent litter from trashing our beaches and hurting coastal economies, injuring and killing marine wildlife, and choking an already threatened ocean ecosystem," said Vikki Spruill President and CEO of Ocean Conservancy. "Trash in the ocean is one of the most widespread pollution problems threatening our ocean and waterways and it's entirely preventable."
Each year, volunteers from around the world spend a few hours removing trash and debris from beaches, lakes, rivers and other waterways keeping track of every piece of trash they find. Ocean Conservancy uses that information to produce the world’s only annual country-by-country, state-by-state index of the problem of marine debris. The report is shared with the public, industry, and government officials as we work together to end to problem of marine debris.
“The Cleanup gives everyone a chance to be a part of an important global movement to end the tide of ocean trash,” says Dianne Sherman, Director of the International Coastal Cleanup. “This new automated registration system will help volunteers from Boston to Bangladesh find a site near them and join in the effort to start a sea change."
Coca-Cola has been supporting the International Coastal Cleanup since 1995 and has been the lead sponsor since 2005 raising awareness of the issue of marine debris and the personal responsibility we all share in solving the problem. In 2008, Coca-Cola activated a network of over 50,000 employees and associates in 35 countries to help clear beaches and waterways of debris. As part of its $20 billion, 10-year initiative to address climate change, Bank of America has supported the International Coastal Cleanup for the past several years, with thousands of associates participating in Cleanup events across the United States and around the world. Other national sponsors include Booz Allen Hamilton; The Dow Chemical Company; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); Philip Morris USA, an Altria Company; and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
For additional information about the International Coastal Cleanup, and to sign up to be a part of the next wave of volunteers visit: www.oceanconservancy.org/cleanup
Sign up to Clean up! Locate a Cleanup site near you and join the hundreds of thousands of volunteers around the world Start a Sea Change this September
Media Contact: Tom McCann
August 4, 2009
(Washington DC) — Today, Ocean Conservancy announces a new searchable online registration system for the International Coastal Cleanup helping volunteers find a Cleanup site in their hometown. The International Coastal Cleanup is the world's largest volunteer effort to help protect the ocean. Last year, nearly 400,000 volunteers hit their local beaches, lakes, and rivers with a common mission of improving the health of the ocean and waterways. On one day, they removed and tallied 6.8 million pounds of debris, from 6,485 sites in 100 countries and 42 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. To find a 2009 Cleanup site near you visit: www.oceanconservancy.org and search on a world map or by town or zip code.
"The ocean is our life support system yet marine debris continues to threaten its health. We know that trash travels. Wherever we live, each of us has a responsibility to prevent litter from trashing our beaches and hurting coastal economies, injuring and killing marine wildlife, and choking an already threatened ocean ecosystem," said Vikki Spruill President and CEO of Ocean Conservancy. "Trash in the ocean is one of the most widespread pollution problems threatening our ocean and waterways and it's entirely preventable."
Each year, volunteers from around the world spend a few hours removing trash and debris from beaches, lakes, rivers and other waterways keeping track of every piece of trash they find. Ocean Conservancy uses that information to produce the world’s only annual country-by-country, state-by-state index of the problem of marine debris. The report is shared with the public, industry, and government officials as we work together to end to problem of marine debris.
“The Cleanup gives everyone a chance to be a part of an important global movement to end the tide of ocean trash,” says Dianne Sherman, Director of the International Coastal Cleanup. “This new automated registration system will help volunteers from Boston to Bangladesh find a site near them and join in the effort to start a sea change."
Coca-Cola has been supporting the International Coastal Cleanup since 1995 and has been the lead sponsor since 2005 raising awareness of the issue of marine debris and the personal responsibility we all share in solving the problem. In 2008, Coca-Cola activated a network of over 50,000 employees and associates in 35 countries to help clear beaches and waterways of debris. As part of its $20 billion, 10-year initiative to address climate change, Bank of America has supported the International Coastal Cleanup for the past several years, with thousands of associates participating in Cleanup events across the United States and around the world. Other national sponsors include Booz Allen Hamilton; The Dow Chemical Company; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA); Philip Morris USA, an Altria Company; and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
For additional information about the International Coastal Cleanup, and to sign up to be a part of the next wave of volunteers visit: www.oceanconservancy.org/cleanup
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