News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 12, 2000

ODNR TO USE WINTER BOAT SHOWS TO PROMOTE NEW STATE BOATING LAWS

COLUMBUS, OH -- To help promote Ohio’s new boating education law, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) will offer watercraft proficiency tests this winter at many of the boat and outdoor shows across the state.

"Boaters planning to attend one of the many boat shows across Ohio this winter can catch a look at all the latest new boats and learn about new state watercraft laws which impact boat noise, operator education and personal watercraft by visiting the ODNR Division of Watercraft booth," said Jeff Hoedt, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft.

New laws facing boaters this year include the requirement that any persons born on or after January 1, 1982, must show proof of successfully completing an approved boating education course or proficiency exam to operate a powercraft with more than 10 horsepower. To help boaters comply with this requirement, the ODNR will be offering proficiency tests at selected boat shows. Boaters can also learn more about education courses through the Internet at: www.dnr.state.oh.us/odnr/watercraft/ed/edops.html.

Boats will also have to comply with new noise decibel limits this year. The noise level from a boat motor may not exceed 90 decibels when subjected to a stationary test or 75 decibels when subjected to a shoreline "passby" test. Also, owners of boats less than 14 feet in length with a permanently affixed motor must now obtain a title for the craft before selling, mortgaging or transferring ownership. This description applies mostly to personal watercraft, more commonly recognized by trade names Wave Runner and Jet Ski.

For Further Information Contact:
Dennis Evans, Division of Watercraft
(614) 265-6695