Minneapolis StarTribune article details growing wake surfing opposition

A recent article in the Minneapolis StarTribune newspaper highlights some of the growing controversy around the growing popularity of wake surfing, particularly at the west metro’s Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota’s busiest lake.

The piece talks about “deafening music” played by wake surfers, invasive species issues from ballast tanks, shoreline erosion and even dangerous waves created by wake surfing boats that have reportedly capsized, and even injured, some in canoes and kayaks.

The Minnesota Wakesurf Association, a waterspouts advocacy group that promotes good practices by enthusiasts, has about 75 members and they have been active on social media, as well as sponsoring community listening sessions.

Competitive wake surfer and long-time boating industry figure Chris Bank has met with wake boat fans and foes, dealers, Water Patrol officers and others looking for ways to ease tensions.

“If it starts with respect, in my opinion, it’s going to go in a good direction,” Bank told the newspaper.

University of Minnesota researchers have been studying the environmental effects of wake boats. In a letter to the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District Board, the study’s leader said he expects to publish results later this year.

The Minnesota DNR may consider wake surf legislation in the future once the study’s findings are published.

If you are interested in this subject, and read the article, be sure to continue down to also read some of the few hundred reader’s comments. They are very enlightening and will give you a glimpse into the minds of some lake home owners, other boaters and non boaters as well, on the subject of wake surfing.

Read the article here.

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One Comment

  1. WSIA and NMMA and some of the marine dealers have been less than helpful to bring the community together by advocating and lobbying for legislation such as 200′ from shore. Besides the divisiveness of their approach it will have a profound negative effect on the resource and the industry at large. If adopted, it will force local government to enact a horsepower limit on each body of water, affecting the industry at large

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