Why would someone want a NWZ?

[sunset on the dock]

Originally Posted by Shreddy

Regardless of what you want, noise is an issue that is almost uncontrollable and can, for the most part, only be enforced by friends I personally believe. The laws cannot hold up when fought in court...I know this from first hand experience. I received a noise violation, of which, I fought in court because I knew the way the officer handled the situation as well as the way the law was written, it wouldn't have a chance to hold up in court. Granted, this was on a snowmobile. However, it is the same for boats. To take an accurate decibel reading, all factors need to be equal. It is IMPOSSIBLE to get an accurate decibel reading on the water. The reason F&G as well as MP write these tickets is because they are enforcing what they think, or want to believe, are broken laws without proper logic/evidence to prove the law is broken. They understand a sold portion of activity in this area is driven by out-of-staters. They know they can write a ticket, regardless if the law was broken or not, because they know the majority of "violators" will simply pay the fine rather than taking the day to fight a dumb violation (unlike myself).

I understand your gripe SSOTD, but YOU are the minority. Many people might agree with you and say they do not appreciate the loud noise, but I've never heard someone consistently rant about it. As mentioned, why let those 5-10 seconds bother you? It's noise, it's not some guy throwing lightning bolts at you from his boat. THERE IS NO THREAT OF SAFETY.

If you feel so strongly about this issue, I highly suggest personally doing something about it rather than coming on here and crying about the issue. Don't go begging SBONH to take care of something you want done. We've heard it...over, and over, and over again. You're beating a dead horse.

And we've heard your statement in the past that you like your snowmobiles, boats, bikes etc. loud because you like to draw attention to your toys that you are proud of. We also saw your rude abbreviation telling someone to shut up in the past which seemed to have gotten you moderated. As I said before, the noise issue was part and parcel of why we have a law that you don't like so we are not in the minority. Accept this or expect other laws that curb your "freedoms".

[Shreddy]

Originally Posted by sunset on the dock

And we've heard your statement in the past that you like your snowmobiles, boats, bikes etc. loud because you like to draw attention to your toys that you are proud of. We also saw your rude abbreviation telling someone to shut up in the past which seemed to have gotten you moderated. As I said before, the noise issue was part and parcel of why we have a law that you don't like so we are not in the minority. Accept this or expect other laws that curb your "freedoms".

Yup, I will not lie, I like what I own loud. Until it can get enforced, I'll keep my toys loud. No, that does not mean I'm going to operate arrogantly in the way I do it. Unlike you, I'd appreciate if every boat on the lake had thru-hull exhaust

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by Shreddy

Yup, I will not lie, I like what I own loud. Until it can get enforced, I'll keep my toys loud. No, that does not mean I'm going to operate arrogantly in the way I do it. Unlike you, I'd appreciate if every boat on the lake had thru-hull exhaust

With all due respect... have you ever given any thought to anyone other than yourself in regards to your love of loud toys? You passion for loudness is going to contribute to the demise of all those recreational activities you now enjoy and impact those who choose to be, shall we say much more considerate of others in the interest of being able to maintain the ability of enjoying various motor sports. What you don't realize is that your actions and others who insist on running loud may not result in stricter regulation, it can and often does lead to something far more sinister. People with enough land, money and influence to just plain say fine if you cannot operate a vehicle responsibly then guess what you can't operate it anymore in my back yard. If you can't enjoy a boat, sled, bike or whatever that doesn't disturb everything in a 5 mile or more radius there is something fundamentally wrong with you and know what maybe you shouldn't own one and one day you won't if this kind of thing keeps up. What you think that will never happen? It can, it has, and it will. You are creating a perception, that perception is what will be used as a catalyst to not just regulate but BAN their use. Remember jet skis? How many bodies of water are they banned on and WHY?

As an avid and very active snowmobiler I can tell you that reckless operation and loud pipes is a HUGE problem and has lead to numerous trail closures. Of course since 90% of the trail system is on private land, all it takes is the land owner to say they've had enough and that's it, trail is closed and no it's not your 'right' to be able to ride on someone's property. It's a privilege that is easily revoked, too bad so sad. On the lake it's a little different in that it'll take time, but clearly people are getting fed up with it and doing something about it. So I would urge anyone who thinks it's cool to be obnoxious to knock it off or everyone will suffer. I swear the really bad ones are just a bunch of ignorant, juveniles with small man syndrome and all it takes is one. Least we forget that Lake Winnipesaukee's shore front is primarily owned by some very very wealthy and in some cases politically well connected people. If they all decide they've had enough the state will act.

Case in point, was out on Saturday, what a beautiful day BTW. Just out like so many others enjoying the day, sun, warm water etc... Never fails one jack*ss goes by where we were anchored with a boat so damned loud we had to stop and wait to continue a conversation, and this boat was a good 3/4 of a mile away. I shook my head as it went by and even after it was out of sight you could still hear that POS for several more minutes. Now I ask you , first is that really necessary? Secondly does it make you feel good that you have successfully disturbed half the freaking lake all in the interest of satisfying the need to be loud?

Oh and that Harley crowd, comical at best. What a loud obnoxious bike and some cheesy leather is supposed to make you look like a tough guy or something? I'm rolling on the floor laughing my *** off at that one. Please you all look like a member of the village people. Grow up!

Unlike you I appreciate guys like OCDACTIVE and others who have a love for the go fast stuff but are considerate and reasonable in how they operate. I've said it more than once on here, while I am not a big fan of the performance boats, my perception has changed radically when seeing how hard these guys are going out of their way to be good stewards. Maybe you should try the same.

[chipj29]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

As an avid and very active snowmobiler I can tell you that reckless operation and loud pipes is a HUGE problem and has lead to numerous trail closures. Of course since 90% of the trail system is on private land, all it takes is the land owner to say they've had enough and that's it, trail is closed and no it's not your 'right' to be able to ride on someone's property. It's a privilege that is easily revoked, too bad so sad. On the lake it's a little different in that it'll take time, but clearly people are getting fed up with it and doing something about it. So I would urge anyone who thinks it's cool to be obnoxious to knock it off or everyone will suffer. I swear the really bad ones are just a bunch of ignorant, juveniles with small man syndrome and all it takes is one. Least we forget that Lake Winnipesaukee's shore front is primarily owned by some very very wealthy and in some cases politically well connected people. If they all decide they've had enough the state will act.

Very well said Maxum.
Regarding the bolded above, just one thing to clarify. When a trail is closed, the privilege is revoked for ALL snowmobilers, not just the offender(s). As is the case in many parts of life, it is the few that spoil things for the rest of us. Sounds familiar, no?

[VitaBene]

As a volunteer and director for the Moultonborough Snowmobile Club, I can assure you that Maxum and Chip are right on as far as noisy snow machines are concerned. Most of our trails cross private land owner's property, some within close proximity of their homes. In many cases, they are fellow snowmobilers, but in some cases they are not. As a club, each year we need to reach out to new landowners for permission to use their property. It is much easier to get this permission if we are all being good stewards of the trails that we use (by keeping noise down, staying on trail, not littering, using proper restroom facilities, etc).

We will never be a noiseless society, but we all have to co-exist as best as possible. Self-policing is much better than having a new law or RSA foisted upon us.

To the powerboaters with open exhaust, the snowmobiler with no mufflers and the Harley Davidson rider with straight pipes, think about your neighbors or the landowner whose property you are about to traverse. Ask yourself if the noise is excessive, and if so, please remedy the situation. Because if you don't there are plenty of people standing in the wings ready to take it to Concord.

[Shreddy]

I forgot how serious this board can be sometimes. I added the laughing face to emphasize the fact that I was stirring the pot. Please excuse me. Noise is an ever growing issue, but you can only complain about it so much. As I originally said, the best form of fighting loud vehicles and toys is to self police and talk to friends. If you feel strongly otherwise, get involved.

For the record, I got that snowmobile ticket three years ago. No, I don't ride with an aftermarket exhaust anymore on sleds. The issue in that area is exactly how everyone has stated thus far. My bike and jet ski does have aftermarket exhausts, however, you'd never know with the jet ski and both are setup for performance. Like I said, aftermarket exhausts can be controlled to an acceptable point (not redlining all the time). For the record, I don't own a harley, and I don't feel my exhaust is near the sound level of some of those!

Going back to the word of mouth policing, I would assume the majority of people that read these boards understand the nature of the issues surrounding noise. However, what everyone needs to realize is that probably less that 5% of active participants in these sports read these forums. Of that, I'd assume less that 1% is in the population that are worthy of complaining about. I'm talking all forums regarding these issues, not just winnipesaukee.com (snowmobiling, jet sking, etc.). Cheers to a never ending discussion about noise!

[VtSteve]

there's always an opening in the peanut gallery

Sometimes I like the loud boats, mostly not. Definitely depends on the distance and time of day. But most of the time it's not worth sweating. Now if I had to live near/on a NWZ, that would be different. A steady stream of boats coming off/on plane, with the requisite noise and wakes? That would not make me happy.

SOTD, I'm almost in agreement with some of your anti-noise comments. It sucks to be having a conversation, and not being able to hear anything until a boat goes by. Oh well, I do live on the lakefront. At night? Yes it's even louder as nothing is there to run noise interference. But not unbearable, nor does it last long enough to be of much concern.

SOTD, take the suggestion to join/meet with the SBONH people. You'd probably be a welcome addition to the group, and many of your thoughts are shared. Good things come with communication and cooperation. I can definitely agree with some of the warnings you post about activities of the few limiting the many. I suggested (warned) people of that awhile back.

Meet up with Scott and the others some day, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. You may also find that you have some new friends that not only share some of your concerns, but can help out as well. It's been a pretty good summer thus far, and making friends only adds to the enjoyment.

[Bear Islander]

If you hate noise a NWZ will not help. A NWZ keeps the offender around longer and they are loudest when speeding up. However noise rarely bothers me and I am in a noisy location. If I wanted quiet I would not have bought on a busy point.

Maxum is absolutely correct. A few idiots always screw things up for the majority. When the average person decides enough is enough then things start getting shut down.

I think this extreme need to be noisy is part of Small Man Syndrome. Guys who think they do not get enough respect or recognition in life, and are looking for payback with this kind of exhibitionism.

[sunset on the dock]

Originally Posted by VtSteve

there's always an opening in the peanut gallery

Sometimes I like the loud boats, mostly not. Definitely depends on the distance and time of day. But most of the time it's not worth sweating. Now if I had to live near/on a NWZ, that would be different. A steady stream of boats coming off/on plane, with the requisite noise and wakes? That would not make me happy.

SOTD, I'm almost in agreement with some of your anti-noise comments. It sucks to be having a conversation, and not being able to hear anything until a boat goes by. Oh well, I do live on the lakefront. At night? Yes it's even louder as nothing is there to run noise interference. But not unbearable, nor does it last long enough to be of much concern.

SOTD, take the suggestion to join/meet with the SBONH people. You'd probably be a welcome addition to the group, and many of your thoughts are shared. Good things come with communication and cooperation. I can definitely agree with some of the warnings you post about activities of the few limiting the many. I suggested (warned) people of that awhile back.

Meet up with Scott and the others some day, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. You may also find that you have some new friends that not only share some of your concerns, but can help out as well. It's been a pretty good summer thus far, and making friends only adds to the enjoyment.

Should I bring my dog for protection. Her name is Winnie and she's a brown Fabrador retriever. She's a pretty good guard dog but is afraid of loud noises.

[BroadHopper]

Originally Posted by sunset on the dock

Should I bring my dog for protection. Her name is Winnie and she's a brown Fabrador retriever. She's a pretty good guard dog but is afraid of loud noises.

fabrodor retriver?? I thought my sister's Labradoodle was something!

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

As a volunteer and director for the Moultonborough Snowmobile Club, I can assure you that Maxum and Chip are right on as far as noisy snow machines are concerned. Most of our trails cross private land owner's property, some within close proximity of their homes. In many cases, they are fellow snowmobilers, but in some cases they are not. As a club, each year we need to reach out to new landowners for permission to use their property. It is much easier to get this permission if we are all being good stewards of the trails that we use (by keeping noise down, staying on trail, not littering, using proper restroom facilities, etc).

We will never be a noiseless society, but we all have to co-exist as best as possible. Self-policing is much better than having a new law or RSA foisted upon us.

I'd like to personally thank you for both volunteering and being a director of the MSC, many who enjoy riding have no idea the kind of effort and dedication it takes by a few for the benefit of many usually with little or no compensation. Especially when it comes to dealing/negotiating with land owners to provide the extensive trail system throughout the state.

You are absolutely right, we will never be a noiseless society, but a little self restraint and courtesy can go a long way to maintaining the often times delicate coexistence between those that have a passion for motor sports of any kind, and those who do not. Like I said in my last posting perception is everything.

[VitaBene]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

I'd like to personally thank you for both volunteering and being a director of the MSC, many who enjoy riding have no idea the kind of effort and dedication it takes by a few for the benefit of many usually with little or no compensation. Especially when it comes to dealing/negotiating with land owners to provide the extensive trail system throughout the state.

You are absolutely right, we will never be a noiseless society, but a little self restraint and courtesy can go a long way to maintaining the often times delicate coexistence between those that have a passion for motor sports of any kind, and those who do not. Like I said in my last posting perception is everything.

Thanks Maxum, it can be a lot of work but it is usually worth it! Once September rolls around I will be hitting people up for trail days here and there.

[Lucky1]

I got to wondering why I would want a No Wake Zone.

For one thing we would like to be able to take our kayaks out and not have to hug the shore because all of the motor boats are racing by in huge numbers and making it impossible to go across a small strip of lake to see the eagle's nest on a nearby island.

I know that weekends are the busiest times but isn't that when most of us have guests? There is a 150 foot right of way that is supposed to be in effect for rowboats, canoes etc so why do so many members here say how dangerous it is to be out in many areas in a kayak etc? Power boating is legal but so is kayaking! We own a lake home and pay our taxes. Why do so many power boaters not think that others want to enjoy being on the water?

One almost reads here that many think canoes, sailboats, kayakers and swimmers are to just stay out of the way of power boats? When did all of this happen as that is not the law. Power boaters are to give non power boaters 150 feet of right of way. I just don't want anyone to lose his or her life and have the power boater end up in jail. What will that accomplish? We do all need to be thoughtful of ALL others on the lake who are enjoying this wonderful gift that we all have.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Lucky1

For one thing we would like to be able to take our kayaks out and not have to hug the shore because all of the motor boats are racing by in huge numbers and making it impossible to go across a small strip of lake to see the eagle's nest on a nearby island.

Lucky1,

Where on the lake are you... I am both a power boater and a Kayaker.... I have had great experience on both and never once have felt like I was concerned in my kayak. I would like the opportunity to see where you are trying to paddle and feel that the motor boat action cause to much commotion on a weekend.

I believe most kayakers end up feeling uncomfortable because they don't have a perception of whether they are identifiable in the water or not. I think most paddlers would be surprised at just how much they stick out, and how noticeable they are....

Send me a PM if you would like to talk about this more ....

[VitaBene]

Originally Posted by Lucky1

I got to wondering why I would want a No Wake Zone.

For one thing we would like to be able to take our kayaks out and not have to hug the shore because all of the motor boats are racing by in huge numbers and making it impossible to go across a small strip of lake to see the eagle's nest on a nearby island.

I know that weekends are the busiest times but isn't that when most of us have guests? There is a 150 foot right of way that is supposed to be in effect for rowboats, canoes etc so why do so many members here say how dangerous it is to be out in many areas in a kayak etc? Power boating is legal but so is kayaking! We own a lake home and pay our taxes. Why do so many power boaters not think that others want to enjoy being on the water?

One almost reads here that many think canoes, sailboats, kayakers and swimmers are to just stay out of the way of power boats? When did all of this happen as that is not the law. Power boaters are to give non power boaters 150 feet of right of way. I just don't want anyone to lose his or her life and have the power boater end up in jail. What will that accomplish? We do all need to be thoughtful of ALL others on the lake who are enjoying this wonderful gift that we all have.

Lucky, In all of the cases you note the powerboat is required to slow to headway within 150' of you. It is really not a right of way, if they are at headway speed they can be 1' from you. 150' is not a lot of room for the canoe or kayak when dealing with wake, you are still going to get some. I canoe and my kids sail, there are days when we can't do it all over the lake as we would be putting ourselves at risk.

[OCDACTIVE]

Originally Posted by VitaBene

Lucky, In all of the cases you note the powerboat is required to slow to headway within 150' of you. It is really not a right of way, if they are at headway speed they can be 1' from you. 150' is not a lot of room for the canoe or kayak when dealing with wake, you are still going to get some. I canoe and my kids sail, there are days when we can't do it all over the lake as we would be putting ourselves at risk.

Agreed and good point here... I also paddleboat, kayak etc. On busy days I stay out of the boating lanes. Someone asked earlier what a boating lane is. Basically in the Broads there aren't boating lanes but when you get into the Narrows up in Moultonboro and the islands like Mark and Timber and such there are only certain areas or lanes that powerboat traffic can go. I would never in my right mind travel in the middle of these on a kayak during busy weekends. Although I have every right to be there as many stated before many Capt. boneheads don't realize this. It would be putting yourself at risk no matter what law they passed. Even if the whole lake was a NWZ it doesn't mean someone who is not familar with the laws can cause an issue. (before the legal experts jump all over me, Yes ignorance to the laws is no excuse and why education is needed but I am not going to risk going out there assuming everyone knows what I know)

So during the busy weekends, when I go out on a paddle boat or kayak I avoid these areas. I also think by me going out into a channel and making everyone slow down for me is not what a courteous boater should do whether under power or not.

Anyway I personally wouldn't want to go there in the first place, the fun of being in a non-power boat is being able to get into coves and inlets that you can't see in a powerboat.

[Dave R]

Originally Posted by OCDACTIVE

So during the busy weekends, when I go out on a paddle boat or kayak I avoid these areas. I also think by me going out into a channel and making everyone slow down for me is not what a courteous boater should do whether under power or not.

Anyway I personally wouldn't want to go there in the first place, the fun of being in a non-power boat is being able to get into coves and inlets that you can't see in a powerboat.

I totally agree and do the same.

[Lucky1]

Originally Posted by OCDACTIVE

Agreed and good point here... I also paddleboat, kayak etc. On busy days I stay out of the boating lanes. Someone asked earlier what a boating lane is. Basically in the Broads there aren't boating lanes but when you get into the Narrows up in Moultonboro and the islands like Mark and Timber and such there are only certain areas or lanes that powerboat traffic can go. I would never in my right mind travel in the middle of these on a kayak during busy weekends. Although I have every right to be there as many stated before many Capt. boneheads don't realize this. It would be putting yourself at risk no matter what law they passed. Even if the whole lake was a NWZ it doesn't mean someone who is not familar with the laws can cause an issue. (before the legal experts jump all over me, Yes ignorance to the laws is no excuse and why education is needed but I am not going to risk going out there assuming everyone knows what I know)

So during the busy weekends, when I go out on a paddle boat or kayak I avoid these areas. I also think by me going out into a channel and making everyone slow down for me is not what a courteous boater should do whether under power or not.

Anyway I personally wouldn't want to go there in the first place, the fun of being in a non-power boat is being able to get into coves and inlets that you can't see in a powerboat.

Good to hear that the fun of being in a non-power boat for you is being able to get into coves and inlets that you can't see in a powerboat.
Possibly you also understand that for others it might be going across to an island to see an eagle's nest? Somehow if anyone wants to do anything that in any way causes a power boat owner to have to change their instant desires it is not what a courteous boater should do, but all day long power boaters can cause non-power boaters to not be able to explore (except in coves and inlets) and that is courteous? This is a huge problem and thus the need for NWZ's.
Look at your symbol.......IT IS A POWER BOAT. That is where you are coming from.

[Mee-n-Mac]

Originally Posted by Lucky1

Good to hear that the fun of being in a non-power boat for you is being able to get into coves and inlets that you can't see in a powerboat.
Possibly you also understand that for others it might be going across to an island to see an eagle's nest? Somehow if anyone wants to do anything that in any way causes a power boat owner to have to change their instant desires it is not what a courteous boater should do, but all day long power boaters can cause non-power boaters to not be able to explore (except in coves and inlets) and that is courteous? This is a huge problem and thus the need for NWZ's.
Look at your symbol.......IT IS A POWER BOAT. That is where you are coming from.

Thanks for using the broad brush. Where on the lake are power boaters prohibiting you from kayaking all day long ? And there's never a chance to kayak between the never-ending stream of apparently non-yeilding power boaters ? I can understand some apprehension because Capt B does ride the high seas but really ...

[OCDACTIVE]

Originally Posted by Lucky1

Good to hear that the fun of being in a non-power boat for you is being able to get into coves and inlets that you can't see in a powerboat.
Possibly you also understand that for others it might be going across to an island to see an eagle's nest? Somehow if anyone wants to do anything that in any way causes a power boat owner to have to change their instant desires it is not what a courteous boater should do, but all day long power boaters can cause non-power boaters to not be able to explore (except in coves and inlets) and that is courteous? This is a huge problem and thus the need for NWZ's.
Look at your symbol.......IT IS A POWER BOAT. That is where you are coming from.

Really? Its a powerboat.. I never would have known.. Thanks for pointing it out. I will stop trying to push it with my oar .... (being sarcastic here)

Lucky, you are reading too much into it. 2 items.
1. I am discussing busy weekends. No matter how well your intentions there are many capt. boneheads who may not be as attentive as you. I personally stay out of busy areas. (this goes for capt bonehead kayakers as well) I once saw on 4th of July weekend in the middle of the broads a kayaker in a BLUE kayak wearing a BLUE life jacket... Seriously???

2. It is not courteous of a kayaker to go right in the middle of a boating channel. You mention you are also a powerboater, but just in case you don't venture out all over the lake I will expound. Well these "channels" can and many times are distinguished by "channel markers". A great example is if you are heading from tuftonboro / moultonboro heading / from the hole in the wall or barbers pole, towards trexlers bridge (Long Island Bridge). On the left side are 6 channel markers where only powerboats can go. It is probably only 325 feet wide. However to the right of the channel is probably a minimum of 1000 feet of water that kayakers and non-power boats can go. There are no eagles nests or any plausable reason why a kayaker would have to or want to cut across this channel. On a busy weekend it would slow traffic (not just one boat inconvenienced) but it actually can cause a traffic jam that potentially is a safety issue because most do not expect it there.

So using my example I would ask why would a kayaker who is courteous to fellow lake goers feel the need to park out right in the middle of the channel? I can't figure it out either but 2 weeks ago there he was clueless to everyone around him or was it he was purposely doing it..?

[Mee-n-Mac]

Originally Posted by OCDACTIVE

Really? Its a powerboat.. I never would have known.. Thanks for pointing it out. I will stop trying to push it with my oar .... (being sarcastic here)

Lucky, you are reading too much into it...

Let me make some analogies. When driving we generally want people to pass on the left. So the rule is keep right except to pass. So there are times when I come up on someone in the left hand lane on RT93 who's just driving there, not passing a soul. And I don't mean in heavy traffic. That person is being rude. I have no problem if that person is actually passing another car (or about to, or have just done it) no matter how slower than me he may be going. Use the passing lane reasonably and then get right. That's being courteous.

People sometimes have to stop on the road (now I'm not talking RT93). OK, sometimes that happens. But if you're stopping in the road to read a map when you could have pulled (even partly) off the road, so others could get by ... well that's rude.

Context is important.

[VitaBene]

Originally Posted by Lucky1

Good to hear that the fun of being in a non-power boat for you is being able to get into coves and inlets that you can't see in a powerboat.
Possibly you also understand that for others it might be going across to an island to see an eagle's nest? Somehow if anyone wants to do anything that in any way causes a power boat owner to have to change their instant desires it is not what a courteous boater should do, but all day long power boaters can cause non-power boaters to not be able to explore (except in coves and inlets) and that is courteous? This is a huge problem and thus the need for NWZ's.
Look at your symbol.......IT IS A POWER BOAT. That is where you are coming from.

Based on your desire to want to paddle to an island with an eagle's nest I am surmising that you are in Moultonborough Bay or the channel leading to it near Suissevale. You have every right to do so and every powerboat that comes within 150' of you is required to be at headway speed. You may explore wherever you choose, but realize you will receive wake from passing boats.

[Kracken]

For the most part, Power Boaters and Sailboat Operators in New Hampshire know the rules. They have all been required to pass a boating exam and to be very honest there is more “self policing” here than in any other state I have ever been to. With that being said there are plenty of power boaters that don’t have the certificate, don’t have a clue what the rules are or simply don’t care. Don’t think for a moment that power boaters are indifferent to these people because they are “one of us”.

As for rights…of course everybody has a right to use the lake (legally), but having a vessel, any vessel does not give the owner an all access pass to the lake. Common sense has to kick in at some point.

We need to share the lake, and we need to do it responsibly. When you’re out on the lake, ask yourself these two questions.

Am I endangering myself and others?

Are my actions interfering with other people’s enjoyment?

If the answer is yes to either of these questions, you are doing it wrong.

[ApS]

Originally Posted by OCDACTIVE

"... I also paddleboat, kayak etc. On busy days I stay out of the boating lanes. Someone asked earlier what a boating lane is..."

Paddleboat?

Sure, they're around, but is this what you meant by the "boat" you'd stay out of the "boating lanes" with?



Does it have blue and white "OCD" graphics?

[Sman]

I agree with BI regarding his point on a NWZ keeps noise around longer and when the boat takes off it is at its noisiest, I am near one too.

The only way that I can see a NWZ reducing noise is to discourage people from going through a particular area because they don't want to slow down to get where they are going. To me that only works if there is an alternative way to get where they are going. So if a NWZ discourages traffic then maybe it would address the issue at that location and create a problem at another.

If you are anti-noise and do get the NWZ put in, instead of complaining about boat noise you might be complaining about no one slowing down like they are supposed to in the NWZ, because lots don't. And you might have the noise of the inevitable guy a few docks down that takes it upon himself to yell "Hey no wake", if you are real lucky he will blow an airhorn and yell, everytime someone breaks the rule, thats fun. Different noises but not real pleasant either. You trade one noise for another or maybe now you have both or all three!

[Mink Islander]

Originally Posted by Shreddy

Yup, I will not lie, I like what I own loud. Until it can get enforced, I'll keep my toys loud. No, that does not mean I'm going to operate arrogantly in the way I do it. Unlike you, I'd appreciate if every boat on the lake had thru-hull exhaust

And the GF crowd ought to be condemning you since you ARE the minority that leads to stiffer laws and restrictions. Most of us teach respect for our laws -- whether you agree with them or not. You apparently missed that class.

[Kracken]

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.