COLUMBUS, OH - The Buckeye State remains a popular recreational boating destination, according to data compiled by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft.

A diversity of public waterways that includes designated Ohio Water Trails, half the total surface area of Lake Erie and nearly half the length of the Ohio River attracts boaters from other states and provides a variety of opportunities for Ohioans who boat.

Promoting awareness of Ohio waterways as top boating destinations is a focal point of the Division of Watercraft during National Tourism Week, May 12-20. The observance highlights tourism opportunities across the nation. This year's theme is "Travel and Tourism: America's Front Door."

"Ohio's front and back doors are defined by waterways where millions of people enjoy recreational boating throughout the year," said Michael Quinn, acting chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft.

Recreational boating is an important part of Ohio's tourism industry and generates an estimated at $2.3 billion yearly for the state's economy. Boating supports the fulltime equivalent of an estimated 19,000 Ohio jobs. Ohio boaters last year paid more than $5.4 million in watercraft registration fees and $15.6 million in marine fuel taxes. Boat sales in Ohio generated an additional $15.4 million in state sales taxes in 2006. The Buckeye State last year ranked 9th nationally with 412,578 registered watercraft.

Some additional Ohio boating facts:

• Watercraft registrations increased 3.1 percent overall between 1996 and 2006, including notable increases in registered canoes, kayaks and personal watercraft.
• 49 percent of all recreational powerboats in the United States are registered in the Great Lakes region. Great Lakes boaters spent an average of $2,500 each during 2006 for food, lodging, fuel and related expenses.
• There are more than 375 marinas and boat dealerships, and more than 55,000 docks and boat storage spaces in Ohio.
• The average Ohio boat owner is 53 years old with an annual household income of $74,300. Boat ownership by women increased from 2.6 percent in 2001 to 4 percent in 2004. The average Ohio boat is 20 feet long and 15 years old.
• One in five Ohio boaters say they have taken an approved boating safety education course within the past five years. Fewer than 1 in 5 Ohio boaters wore a life jacket when boating last year.
• Ohio boaters spend half their time on the water fishing.