Before we have another interesting thread that is shut down and archived, let’s try to put the focus where it belongs.
Most people would agree it is a minority on the lake that is causing the problems.
1. Operation of a non-conforming vessel.
2. Operating while impaired.
3. Reckless operation
4. Failure to operate under NH Dept of Safety regulations.
There has been a lot of bitterness on both sides. TLTCBM proponents who feel their enjoyment of the lake has been diminished and they are being punished because of a few idiots and they blame the supporters.
Then there are the TLTCBM supporters who feel there rights have been slowly eroded and their enjoyment of the lake has been diminished because they don’t feel safe on the lake and they blame the proponents.
The one thing both sides are missing is putting the blame on the actual culprit; the people who break the laws. A person in a “GFBL” is just as susceptible to an impaired operator, reckless operation or loud exhaust as a person on a pontoon boat. I saw (heard) an 18 foot Four Winns this weekend with straight pipes. I would guess this boat had a 3.0 in it (hardly a performance boat).
I would suggest most, if not all of the members that frequent this forum really do have a vested interest in the future of the lake and are not the “Cowboys” that are breaking the laws. Just because somebody owns a high performance boat does not mean they are pro: BOI, Illegal exhaust or operating to endanger. Also, just because an individual supports TLTCBM, it does not mean they want the lake to be like “On Golden Pond” or that they are a Prius driver.
Instead of blaming “the other side” wouldn’t it be better to work together to find a solution? Sunset on the Dock has extended a hand many times, yet it seems every time he is ridiculed for his stance. That is not going to solve anything.
Everybody experiences the lake in there own way, but the common thread we all share is the need to have the lake to be a safe place for our friends and family.
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