Quote:
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Originally Posted by chase1
"...Boating reports show that total registered boats nationwide continues to fall and there are less registered boats today than in 1979. The only way For Winni to experience increased boating congestion is if more boats are coming to the area..."
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Each state sets their own criteria for mandatory registration. New Hampshire does not require the registration of small sailcraft and manually-powered boats. (Canoes, inflatables, paddleboats, sculls, kayaks, rowboats). It should be pointed out that these boats are operated at less than 10MPH.
If there is a
national trend downward in registrations, it is likely traceable to the
national buying-up of shorefront neighborhoods for housing and condominiums. Marinas are closing. Gated communities near the water are restricting the size of stored boats, and directing
where on the lot to put them. (Like behind a fence).
With the fitness craze upon us, many more boats are appearing today that do not require registration. Lakes Region stores selling kayaks
exclusively were unheard of. However, how many of those purchased recently are hanging in garages and attics...
unused?
That said, it certainly seemed as though many boaters kept their registration-required AND no-registration-required boats at home. Witness the "Where IS Everybody" thread -- here -- this past summer.