Buoy Partners Follow Up

Our recent post highlighting the bi-annual process of installing and removing Rock buoys prompted a great question that boils down to "Are No Wake restrictions still in effect before and after the marker buoys are in place?"  We checked in with the Stearns County Sheriff's Office and learned a lot.  

Three separate ordinances cover the No Wake zones on the Chain (see the full list here).  The short story is that of the seven No Wake zones, two are in effect all year, whether buoys are in place or not.  Those two zones are the channel between Little Cedar and Cedar Island Lake, as well as the section of the Sauk River between the Hwy 23 bridge in Cold Spring and the Co. Rd. 2  bridge.

For the five other No Wake zones, restrictions are only in effect between Memorial Day and Labor Day. However, in the interests of maintaining a healthy Chain, let's all slow down in those areas all year long, as wake-induced erosion doesn't stop when the buoys are absent.

Thanks to Ken K for asking about something that many of us have wondered about. Keep those questions coming!

Buoy Partners!

The SRCLA has had a partnership with the Sheriff's Office for a number of years, whereby we supply approximately 15 Rock buoys and the GPS coordinates of hazardous locations throughout the Chain so we can alert boaters to shallow prop-damaging spots.  The Sheriff's Office utilizes the same specialized equipment they use to install and remove No Wake buoys to install and remove our Rock buoys.

Board member Jon Folkedahl accompanied the team this week to help out with the challenging removal process.  The Rock buoys will be power-washed and stored until they're redeployed again in the spring.

A major shout-out to the Stearns County Sheriff's Office for their ongoing support of this initiative!

We Take Your Input Seriously!

During our annual meeting in June, we heard concerns about the narrow channel between Horseshoe and Long Lake, which includes a blind corner under a shallow bridge.  While many boaters use their horns to notify oncoming boaters and take turns, some do not, creating a safety concern.  The SRCLA board discussed the situation, and board member Wayne Karg talked to the land & bridge owner, who agreed to let us install a convex mirror and warning signs.  So we bought a mirror and signs and installed them this month.  Hopefully, this will alert boaters to the potential hazards, particularly those who aren't familiar with the channel.  Thanks to the annual meeting participant who alerted us to this issue! Great work, Wayne!

This is an example of how your membership fees help the SRCLA Board make a difference. Have you renewed your 2025 Membership?

Photo by Pam Karg

Own Your Wake

When you’re enjoying one of Minnesota’s beautiful rivers or lakes, it’s crucial to be mindful of your wake. Every boat creates a wake, and being considerate of how it impacts other boaters and the shoreline is essential. Plus, minding your wake is key to keeping people safe while on the water. Here are some tips to help you navigate responsibly:
🚤 Be aware of your environment — look out for swimmers, other boaters, no-wake zones, etc. to prevent injuring other water-goers.
🚤 Slow down BEFORE the no-wake zone
🚤 Stay at least 200 feet away from shoreline, docks, and other structures to prevent damages and shoreline erosion.
🚤 Minimize repetitive passes — once you’ve run a line, move onto another area.
🚤 Respect the rights of others to enjoy their time on the water!
By taking these tips to heart, you can help keep Minnesota’s waters safe and fun for all! For more details, head to https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/own-your-wake.html

2025 Youth Watercraft Operator Permit & Water Safety Class

Sponsored by Stearns County Coalition of Lake Associations (COLA)

Stearns COLA is pleased to announce the scheduling of youth Watercraft Safety Classes for 2025.  The COLA helps supervise the classes and provides refreshments including pizza for all participants.  There are only 20 slots for each class. 

Event: Sauk River Chain of Lakes Youth Watercraft Operator Permit & Water Safety Class
Date: Wednesday, June 18th, 2025
Time: Time: 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Shady's Long Shots - 17467 Fairway Circle, Cold Spring, Minnesota 56320

For details and requirements of this program and to register for this event click HERE. If you sign up and decide you cannot attend please cancel your reservation so others can attend. 

For more information: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/index.html