MN asked to step up training for boaters with a certificate program / Public Information Service

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BRAINERD, Minn. – Minnesota boat owners are storing their boats for the winter. But that doesn’t stop the conversation about responsible water recreation. Groups calling for more safety requirements say it’s about preserving the lakes for future seasons.

The boats used for certain lake activities such as wakesurfing are getting bigger and bigger and more powerful. This has raised concerns about the big waves damaging the shores and vegetation.

Jeff Forester, executive director of Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates, said that’s why his group wanted the Natural Resources Department to require a boat operator’s safety certificate.

“The lakes are extremely complex and very fragile,” said Forester. “So the training in lake ecology that would come with boat operator certification, I think, could go a long way in helping people protect and preserve lakes. “

He noted that Minnesota also had just experienced its deadliest summer on the lakes since 2005. The DNR says of the fatalities, 17 were from shipping accidents.

The ministry is urged to include the language of the certificate in its next agency bill to the legislature. MNR officials say they support more education, but add that it is too early to say if there will be talks to include it.

Supporters say it’s not about cracking down on boaters because they understand how important water recreation is to Minnesota.

Steve Frawley, chairman of the government relations committee of the Gull Chain of Lakes Association, said he is concerned about increased traffic from wakesurfing and believes training may be one of many ways to ensure that all residents will enjoy the lakes for years to come.

“I think it would be very important to have some sort of certification process so that people understand the impact of these boats,” said Frawley, “especially on the narrower and shallower lakes”.

Current Status of Minnesota language enabled for teens. Forester said it was a good first step.

But he said with Boat sales increase 30% during pandemic, it is clear that there are new boat owners who could benefit from training.

“The boating industry is really innovative and has changed a lot over the last few years,” said Forester.

He said the sophisticated craft requires more skills and greater awareness.

The request calls for the creation of a working group to determine the parameters of a certification program.

Disclosure: Minnesota Lakes and Rivers Advocates contributes to our Climate Change / Air Quality, Public Lands / Wilderness, Sustainable Agriculture, Water Reporting Fund. If you would like to help support the news in the public interest, click here.

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