Lake Friendly Boating

Fuel Cautiously.

Fuel slowly and carefully. Never prop open a fuel trigger on a gas pump handle or leave your vessel unattended.

Know how much fuel your tanks hold, and don’t top off! Only fill the tank to 90% since fuel expands as it warms up. If a marina attendant is filling up your tank, let them know how much your tank holds.

Fill portable gas tanks on shore where spills are less likely to occur and easier to clean up.

Inspect fuel lines regularly. Replace those with dry, cracked or soft spots.

Protect Wildlife & Sensitive Habitat.

Proceed slowly in shallow areas.

Do not disturb wildlife. Bring binoculars out on the boat so you can observe birds, such as loons, from a safe distance.

Avoid contact with submerged aquatic vegetation

Watch your wake — it can lead to shoreline erosion.

Observe posted No-Wake zones.

Clean your boat.

Don’t use detergents containing: ammonia, sodium hypochlorite, chlorinated solvents, petroleum distillates or lye.

Wash your boat frequently with a sponge and plain water to avoid the buildup that calls for harsh cleaners.

Use phosphate-free, biodegradable and non-toxic cleaners on land when possible.

Wax your boat – a good coat of wax prevents surface dirt from becoming ingrained.

Do not scrape the hull of your boat on your own. Take your boat to a marina with an approved boat cleaning facility.

Control Oil in Bilges.

Place oil absorbent pads or a bioremediating bilge boom in the bilge to catch oil. These products absorb petroleum products but not water.

Replacing oil absorbent materials when heavily soiled or saturated, or at least once a year.

Changing oil filters often. Slip a plastic bag over the filter before removal to catch drips.

Trailering your boat to an area that provides containment before removing bilge or boat plugs.

Never discharge or pump any bilge water that appears oily into or near the water – it is against the law!

Wake Awareness

Be aware of your environment and what’s going on around you – this applies to everyone on and around the water.

Stay at least 200 feet away from shorelines, docks or other structures. Backing a boat up to a riverbank or lakeshore can damage the area and lead to erosion. Travel slowly in shallow waters.

Minimize repetitive passes. Once you’ve run a line, move on to another area. Comply with all signs and respect barriers.

Respect the rights of others so everyone can enjoy their time on the water – keep the noise down, be courteous to other boaters, and show consideration to all recreationists on and around the water.