Friends of Lake Mohawksin among members of statewide wake-enhanced boating coalition

WISCONSIN – A coalition with a focus on protecting Wisconsin’s lakes from the impact of wake-enhanced boating is now the largest of its kind in state history, and several  local groups have joined, including one from the Tomahawk area.

A release from the coalition said the effort, which began with five groups about five months ago, has expanded to 60 Wisconsin-based groups from all over the Badger State.

Local coalition members include Friends of Lake Mohawksin, Oneida County Clean Waters Action, Oneida County Lakes and Rivers and the Vilas County Lakes and Rivers Association.

Wake boats are boats with more power, larger ballast tanks and the ability to create bigger waves, according to the Manitowoc County Lakes Association. The boats are growing in popularity because they are better for sports like wake surfing, the organization said.

“We all understand the damage wake-enhanced activity is having on our waterways, lakes and property values,” said activist Dr. Fred Prehn. “It’s time to realize this activity, which causes lake bottom sediments to be disturbed and the loss of fish habitat, is not good for the economic engine that outdoor recreation brings to Wisconsin. It’s time for our legislators to understand the importance of putting into statute criteria that protect our lakes.”

Cody Kamrowski, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Wildlife Federation, said the “organic growth of the coalition is a testament to just how many Wisconsinites care deeply about protecting our lakes and rivers.”

“Something must be done to preserve these treasures for generations to come,” Kamrowski stated. “The coalition now represents thousands of Wisconsinites that have made this a top priority.”  

“The coalition continues to grow at an incredibly rapid pace,” said Jeff Meessmann, board member of the environmental advocacy group Last Wilderness Alliance. “In the last month alone, 14 new members have joined. As the coalition grows, each member lends their expertise to the cause. One member may focus on damage to shoreline, while another has expertise in enacting local ordinances.”

Local governments and lake associations have also begun to address the damage done by wake-enhanced boating. This past year, nearly three dozen towns have passed prohibitions on the wake-enhanced activity, according to the release.

Mike Arrowwood, Chairman of Walleyes for Tomorrow, said the coalition “(plans) to continue this growth to show the Legislature there is an organic movement in support of managing these activities for the benefit of all Wisconsinites.”

“The continually expanding coalition represents Wisconsin fishing experts and enthusiasts, advocates for local control, lake property landowners, sailors, those concerned with spreading invasive species and others,” the release stated. “All are concerned about the devastating impacts of wake-enhanced boating on Wisconsin’s glacial lakes and other waterways.”

The release said the coalition will be active in the  new Legislative Session.