Registration Ends September 24 for Confluence 2007: Ohio's Boating Conference

Every other year, the Division of Watercraft sponsors Confluence, a conference for boating professionals and partners. This event brings together recreational boating leaders throughout Ohio to explore the issues, trends, and forecasts that will shape boating, outdoor recreation, resource management, and public safety well into the future. Confluence 2007 will feature internationally recognized speakers on important topics such as risk management, innovations in marine manufacturing, and cold water immersion. Confluence 2007: Charting the Future of Boating will take place November 7-9 at Maumee Bay State Park. Registration is open until September 24 for vendors and participants. (Room reservations should be made separately, directly with Maumee Bay State Park.)

At the November 7 opening session, boaters will hear from Jeff Hoedt, chief of the U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety, about the critical issues in boating. Pam Dillon, executive director of the American Canoe Association, will explore issues affecting paddlesports, the fastest growing segment of recreational boating. Virgil Chambers, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council, will share insights about lifejacket wear campaigns. They are among a number of speakers who will set the tone for the next day’s workshops, geared to boating educators, marine law enforcement personnel, volunteers and other boating partners.

The full Confluence 2007 agenda will be available soon on the watercraft News and Events web page. A registration form is currently available.