Government Affairs State Boating Info Maryland Boating News

Maryland Boating News

August 30, 2012

Proposed Reg Would Restrict Ballast Boats and Wakesurfing

A public hearing was held Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at 6 p.m. at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources in Annapolis, Maryland to discuss a proposed regulation which would restrict the areas where boaters could wakesurf on state waters. The proposal would not allow the practice of wakesurfing within 200 feet of any of the following: piers, docks, pilings, jetties, bridge structures, abutments, bulkheads, floats, buoys, channel markers, or other vessels operating in the area, at anchor or moored, or an individual or individuals in the water.

The regulation would also define artificial ballasts and require that a manufacturer's label be affixed to any portable ballast tank identifying the maximum capacity in gallons and/or weight in pounds. The weight of the ballast combined with the occupants could not exceed the maximum carrying capacity of the vessel as listed on the USCG loading label.

If you enjoy the waters of Maryland and would like to comment on the proposed regulation, please send Comments to Michael Grant, Regulations Coordinator, Maryland Department of Natural Resources-Boating Services Unit, 580 Taylor Avenue, E/4, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. Call 410-260-8013, e-mail to mgrant@dnr.state.md.us or fax to 410-260-8453.

Comments will be accepted through September 24, 2012.

For specific questions about boating issues or BoatUS Government Affairs, please e-mail the department at GovtAffairs@BoatUS.com