Erosion
At first glance, erosion and boating don't seem to have much in common, but take a second look. Erosion of Ohio's shores and beaches is happening, and as a boater, you can help minimize the problem.
If you frequent shallow waters of six feet or less, you can avoid damaging the ecosystem by going slowly through these areas. By proceeding under power at a slower speed, you will stir up a lot less sediment.
Scientists say that the frequent stirring up of sediments in shallow waters interrupts the natural life cycle of some plants and animals on which larger game fish feed. Furthermore, some of those stirred-up sediments are rich in chemicals that feed on algae blooms, which also can be deadly to fish. Boat wakes, the wave action created by a moving watercraft, not only stir up sediment, but can also erode the banks of rivers, coves, and other confined waters. That eroded material settles in deeper channels, eventually requiring expensive dredging or, worse, keeping any boaters from enjoying these backwaters.
How to Prevent Erosion
- Help to prevent shoreline erosion by reducing your wake. Reduce your boat speed before approaching buoy markers or when navigating close to shore.
- Obey "NO WAKE" zones. It's against the law to operate your boat at a speed which creates a wake within 300 feet of a harbor, harbor entrance or in an area marked "NO WAKE."
- Many boating areas have unmarked "SHORE ZONES" where boaters are required to operate at "NO WAKE" or idle speed. These zones range from 100-300 feet at state park lakes and vary greatly at other boating facilities. Know the rules at your favorite boating areas.
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