Charge Hikers F&G rescue Fee

[Bear Islander]

Originally Posted by jrc

I'm just trying to find consistent logic:


A person can boat at speeds above 45 mph but not be a suicidal daredevil. With the proper equipment, training and experience it is possible to travel at extremely high speeds in relative safety.

People boat, and waterski, at speeds well above 45 mph. The risks are comparable with swimming.

And I think you might be overstating the danger that other lake users are in. People called on to police boaters are boaters themselves, they understand the risks, and have applied for the duty.

If the marine patrol themselves start complaining about the risks, then it would be appropriate to listen to them. The opinion of the inexperienced that were not there is doubly suspect.

There are laws and rules that regulate hikers and mountain climbers. Where you can go, what you can bring, what you can't do along the way. Boating on public waters should also have regulations consistent with that activity. That includes speed and horsepower limits in certain places at certain times.

As an additional argument I will point out there are many, many places you have a "right" to go on foot, but are not allowed to bring a vehicle.