New Study from U of M on impact of Wakesurfing
The St. Anthony Falls Lab at the University of Minnesota has published a second report on the impact of boat-generated waves and prop wash on lake bottoms. Here are a few of their observations:
"Researchers concluded that in depths of 9 feet and 14 feet, the forces created by wake boats operating in surfing mode stir up sediment — tiny particles of sand, silt, clay and organic matter — from the lake bottom and suspend them in the water, turning it cloudy. That makes it more difficult for sunlight to penetrate, potentially affecting fish and plants. Sediment also contains phosphorus, which can spur the growth of algae blooms that turn the lake green."
"The report recommends that while operating in surfing mode — a slower speed that creates a large wake — boats should stay in at least 20 feet of water. That’s twice as deep as the recommendation in a study backed by the boating industry."
Given how much of the Chain has water depths well below 20 feet, there are legitimate concerns about the impact of these watercraft as they become more popular. The SRCLA will continue to monitor ongoing research by the SAFL as well as deliberations by local and state government, and pass along additional information as it becomes available.