MP - Seriously?

[Joanna16]

So there we were Saturday legally anchored down in Braun Bay. Enjoying a sunny afternoon with some new friends we had met. The weather started to look questionable but we figured it be better to ride out the rain with 2 anchors down then try to head home.

Along comes Marine Patrol - we figured they we stopping by as a courtsey to tell us to check our anchors and hunker down - NOT. They came in to check our 25ft. Seriously?

When asked about the storm they said they did not know but 2 boats near to us were not legally achored and had to move. Is this really the time to be splitting hairs about the 25ft rule?????

What about the safety of that boat and it's passengers was going to be effected by them moving 5ft further away for that other boat???? Isn't it better that the captain was not physically in the water when the storm hit?

Ok let the bashing of me begin because I was in the lake during a storm. Or beacuse I own a GFBL. But really shouldn't MP have been more concerned with the weather and the 50 boats that left 5 minutes before scurring across the lake and "un-safe" speeds?

[Dave R]

Perhaps they wanted more separation because of the impending storm. In a storm, two anchors, the way they are typically set in Braun Bay, are a liability. You'd be better off with a single, properly sized, bow anchor and a 10:1 scope. Last thing you want is the boat broadside to the wind tugging on two anchors sideways, especially if the bow anchor drags and presents the stern to the weather.

[SIKSUKR]

Agreed.I know I would want a lot of extra distance between my boat and others in a bad weather situation.

[sa meredith]

Anchoring in a storm is covered very thoroughly in the NH Safe Boating Course, and, of course, you both are right on the money.
I thought the same thing, when reading the original post. Anchoring both the bow and stern in severe weather...probably not the best idea. If fact, not a good one at all.

[Woodsy]

and I agree with Joanna...

I was there saturday afternoon too. I am usually a a very big advocate of the NHMP and the FANTASTIC job they do.. But saturday afternoon was a bit excessive!

The MP arrived with 3 boats just after the bay had pretty much cleared out due to the impending storm. There werent that many boats left. I was had pulled my anchors and was heading out when a friend yelled to me his boat wouldnt start. (He was at the bay with his wife, some friends of hers and thier teenage daughter & her friends) Needless to say the wind was picking up, the sky was dark and the teenage girls were getting a bit frightened. I turned around and tied off to him (his stern line to my nose ring) The wind was picking up so I thought it was best that both boats move in unison to prevent any damage while we tried to get the boat started.

He didnt have any jumper cables, and I had lent out my jump pack to another boater earlier in the day, so the only really quick solution (other than towing him or Seatow) was to give him the second battery out of my Donzi.

I quickly disconnected and removed my second battery, placed it on my shoulder and was in the water walking it over to the other boat when the MP officer in the RIB decided it was good time to remind me of the rafting rules in Braun Bay! I explained to the officer twice that I was not rafting, but helping a broken down boater... instead of asking if they could assist (call Seatow or something) he continued on the rafting rules diatribe! After he explained to me for the 3rd time that we needed to be 25' apart, he motored away!

The funny thing is... he was WRONG!

I wasnt in the mood to argue, I just wanted to get my friends boat running and be on my way before the storm really hit!

We didnt have to be 25' apart nor were we illegal according to the rafting rules! There were no other boats within 50' of us! They all left because of the impending storm!

http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/...270/270-44.htm

9 times out of ten the NHMP make the right call... this time it was bit over the top!

Woodsy

[Woodsy]

Originally Posted by Dave R

Perhaps they wanted more separation because of the impending storm. In a storm, two anchors, the way they are typically set in Braun Bay, are a liability. You'd be better off with a single, properly sized, bow anchor and a 10:1 scope. Last thing you want is the boat broadside to the wind tugging on two anchors sideways, especially if the bow anchor drags and presents the stern to the weather.

Dave...

The NHMP were essentially quoting the rulebook... their mission was to enforce the rafting rules and write warnings or violations. They never said you might want to get out of here or spread out before the storm hits...

That is particularly good advice on anchoring....

But given the 3-4' of water in Braun Bay, and its relatively protected area (from the wind - lots of tall trees) I dont think they were in any danger. If they removed the rear anchor and the other boats around them did not, then there is the potential for the boat to swing in the wind and cause a collision.

Woodsy

[Dave R]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

Dave...

The NHMP were essentially quoting the rulebook... their mission was to enforce the rafting rules and write warnings or violations. They never said you might want to get out of here or spread out before the storm hits...

That is particularly good advice on anchoring....

But given the 3-4' of water in Braun Bay, and its relatively protected area (from the wind - lots of tall trees) I dont think they were in any danger. If they removed the rear anchor and the other boats around them did not, then there is the potential for the boat to swing in the wind and cause a collision.

Woodsy

I kinda figured, that's why I wrote "perhaps". The rest of my post was meant solely to be educational. In your situation, I think I would have said "yup" and then ignored the MP and kept on doing what you were doing with the battery.

[jrc]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

....
The funny thing is... he was WRONG!

I wasnt in the mood to argue, I just wanted to get my friends boat running and be on my way before the storm really hit!

We didnt have to be 25' apart nor were we illegal according to the rafting rules! There were no other boats within 50' of us! They all left because of the impending storm!

http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa/...270/270-44.htm
...

First let me say that in a repair situation or a waiting out the storm situation, I would expect the MP to be more helpful. But they are only human and they come in different personalities.

Seems like in the spirit of the law would allow your actions, to the letter of the law, I think you were in violation.

In a NRZ, you can raft two boats together and be 50' from other boats or your boats can be 25' apart. It doesn't seem like, you can't be 10' apart and not rafting, for example. You either have to have your boats touching (rafting) or be 25' away.

It sounds a little silly but that's how I read the law.

[Woodsy]

Jrc...

Because we were tied together (attached by a line connected from my bow to his stern) we were technically rafting. However we were not in violation because there were no other boats within 50' of us.

Woodsy

[jrc]

I guess that's right, you were technically rafting if your tied together, Obviously you don't have to touch to raft, we always use fenders just to make sure we don't touch.

Well the whole rafting enforcement theme has been bounced around here before. I'm not getting on my soapbox again.

But its seems like a big picture view by the MP, at least in this particular incidence may have been better. But then again I wasn't there.

[bigpatsfan]

I guess what was missing in the MP conversation with Joanna16 was any mentioned of a storm or what Joanna16 should do during this storm. Instead it appears that the MP was sent out to enforce the “no rafting” statue and that was what this autobot did.

In reading the large number of posts on many different threads regarding MP officers, it appears that the officers need additional training not only on boating and criminal laws but more importantly on how to interact with the populace. When reading the posts, most people are complaining about the officers demeanor.

This is not surprising as the Marine Patrol, as a group, is the least trained police department in the State. The majority of the officers are part time officers and as a result do not benefit from Police Standards and Trainings full time academy.

The State should seriously look at either abolishing the MP division and have the State Police handle boating or significantly increase the MP officers training.

[Winnipesaukee]

Joanna, I'll take some bashing too.

First of all, if caught in a storm and you have two anchors, I recommend anchoring "Bahama" style with as much scope as possible. It limits swing which assures that the anchors will hold. Not to mention you have two anchors in the ground...

Second, I believe the law says you can break a law if it is reasonably safe to do so, in a case of emergency.

I'm very pro-cop, but it seems that many (but not all) members of the MP have been unwilling to provide boaters any kind of real aid, as evidenced by the OP's post and my experiences with them. I don't dislike them; they just need to tweak their "mission" a bit. Don't they close their doors at 2AM? Don't their boats even lack VHF radios?

I don't subscribe to SeaTow or BoatUS. If I ever need help for whatever reason, I'm sure I can simply give a call on the radio and request assistance, and someone will help me out. I would and have done the same for others. It is considered good seamanship for a boater to assist another if they are in need. I expect MP to be part of that network of seaman-like boaters, but again, doesn't seem to really be the case....

[bigpatsfan]

Their mission is fine:

The Marine Patrol’s mission is to provide a safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible use for all of the State’s public waters.

It is their execution that needs work.

[Kamper]

Originally Posted by bigpatsfan

...
The State should seriously look at either abolishing the MP division and have the State Police handle boating or significantly increase the MP officers training.

I vote for plan "B." For the sake of space, let's completely disregard the SP/HP integration issues. I think a properly trained cadre of specialists dedicated to the task will be better for the boating community than Troopers who would be more likley to be re-assigned to other duties (imo). Since most of the MP positions are seasonal there would be serious retension issues to work out with the unions, too.

As you suggested the temps/part-timers might benefit from additional training. I prefer to think they are all trying their best but there are a lot of details that are difficult to learn on the job.

[Lakegeezer]

While we can debate if the rafting law should be enforced during a weather emergency, another approach would be to challenge the law itself. Should the no-rafting areas laws be repealed?

The energy crisis is a longer term issue than an impending storm and a ban on rafting makes less sense than it did when fuel was cheap. Some areas of the citizen's lake are better than others for "hanging out on your boat". Braun Bay and Kona are examples of nice places - but use is limited by the rafting rules. This forces people to burn gas, while driving around looking for a legal spot to anchor. As other spots get crowded, there is pressure to add new no-rafting zones too. More driving around, less places to hang out. This doesn't make sense to me.

There are two alternatives. Eliminate all no-rafting zones or ban rafting for the whole lake. Perhaps a two year trial for each approach would be worth a shot.

[SIKSUKR]

Originally Posted by Winnipesaukee

Joanna, I'll take some bashing too.
I'm very pro-cop, but it seems that many (but not all) members of the MP have been unwilling to provide boaters any kind of real aid, as evidenced by the OP's post and my experiences with them.
I don't subscribe to SeaTow or BoatUS. If I ever need help for whatever reason, I expect MP to be part of that network of seaman-like boaters, but again, doesn't seem to really be the case....

I have to post in support of MP for a recent event.Two Saturdays ago I was to meet a friend at Braun Bay.I went over on my PWC while my girlfriend went with a couple friends in their boat.I get a call while waiting in Braun from them and they inform me they are dead in the water right by Eagle Island.It's pretty windy out so I'm a little concerned about how their boat will fair being dead.I move as fast as I can to get to them but that still takes about 10 minutes.When I arrived MP was already assisting them.They had been blown towards Pitchwood and MP saw them in trouble.MP tossed them a line and towed them back to a safe area and then called Seatow for them.He waited till Seatow arrived until leaving.Needless to say my friends were very happy that the MP arrived to help them.

[Woodsy]

I am a huge supporter of the NHMP and think they do a TREMENDOUS job given thier funding level, seasonal employees etc... They really do! Winiipesaukee regardless of what some of the detractors say, is one of the safest places to boat in the country and a lot of that has to do with the proffessionalism of the NHMP!

I just think in this particular instance it was a bit over the top given the storm and the lack of boats...

Woodsy

[KonaChick]

With the way these storms have been for the last few weeks if MP cruised the lake warning boaters of storms, that's all they'd be doing!

[Airwaves]

Rather than cruise the lake warning boaters of an impending storm they could just do a VHF broadcast when severe thunderstorm warnings are posted for the area.

During the severe weather at the end of bike week I heard NHMP HQ do a broadcast on their dispatch channel warning MP boats to find a secure area to ride out the storm, they certainly could do the same for the general boating population.

Just an aside, boaters on Winnipesaukee really should have a VHF with a wx alert feature for just these conditions since most over the air radio stations in the area are computers with no live person behind the mic to let you know when things like this are happening and satellite radio will be no help at all!

[kchace]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Rather than cruise the lake warning boaters of an impending storm they could just do a VHF broadcast when severe thunderstorm warnings are posted for the area.

During the severe weather at the end of bike week I heard NHMP HQ do a broadcast on their dispatch channel warning MP boats to find a secure area to ride out the storm, they certainly could do the same for the general boating population.

Just an aside, boaters on Winnipesaukee really should have a VHF with a wx alert feature for just these conditions since most over the air radio stations in the area are computers with no live person behind the mic to let you know when things like this are happening and satellite radio will be no help at all!

While boating last year I heard the NHMP issue issue a storm warning via VHF ch16. It was timely and welcomed. It gave me a chance to get the boat tucked into a protected space.

Ken

[liberator211]

First and foremost I think the MP does a great job the majority of the time. They do surprise me from time to time with the way they harass me. Just last night I took a dusk cruise from Cummings Cove area into Paugus bay and left around 7:30. I went into the Weirs channel and the MP boat was also in the channel. We exchanged waves as we passed each other. As I departed the channel heading back towards Pitchwood around 8:00 I put up my stern light and turned my lights on. The MP was just sitting outside the channel off the flashing black marker near Hoits Point (no lights on). While pulling out I see three different jet skis still running without lights and another bonehead tubing with his lights on. This is now 8:15-8:30 and I am wondering why the heck the MP is not addressing either one of these issues. I take off and sure enough the lights go on and who does the MP pull over? Me of course; not the jet skiers who are still out or the bonehead with his kids tubing at near dark. I was far away from everybody including the MP so I knew I did not break any headway rules. We go through the whole thing of safety equipment, registration, boater’s license etc. After passing with flying colors they tell me they are going to issue me a ticket for not having properly displayed my running lights when we passed in the channel. Oh by the way they did not have any running lights on either when we passed in the Weirs Channel. Of course I did not bring that up or ask them why it was me and not the other knuckle heads they pulled over. I was able to apologize profusely and also receive a verbal warning but I mean come on. One last tidbit of information; I am young and own a go fast style boat so you now know the reason it was me who was pulled over and not the family tubing at dusk or the jet skiers. Has not been the first time I have been pulled-over nor do I expect it to be the last time. Have a good day everybody.

[Winnipesaukee]

You should have welcomed the ticket, asked the MP why their lights were off, and why they didn't pull over the boneheads on jet skis. Then you should have taken a picture of the MP boat and the jet skis.

[VtSteve]

Is this fairly new behavior on the lake? From many reports this year, it "appears" that a certain group of boaters has been targeted for some harassment. Possibly some is justified to make a statement, hard to tell since we only hear one side of the story. I'm not disputing your account at all, and it would appear that in your case at least, the MP not only has a problem with harassment, but one of upholding the law as well.

I realize I'm throwing this out there with no basis in fact other than posts here and elsewhere. I do that, because if there is a problem, it needs to be addressed so credibility remains intact. I know of at least one other lake where some powerful interests have influenced the targets the MP routinely single out.

[Woodsy]

VT...

I dont think a certian group of boaters has been singled out... its just not the way the NHMP operate. At Braun Bay I have seen them discuss the rules with everyone, not just us Hi-Po Boaters. I think there has been a decision this summer to crackdown a bit on rafting & other relatively minor violations. I think the NHMP has a bit less to do this year with boat traffic being waaaaayyyy down, so they have the manpower to concentrate on the lesser violations.

All in all I think they do a GREAT job!

Woodsy

[VtSteve]

Originally Posted by Woodsy

VT...

I dont think a certian group of boaters has been singled out... its just not the way the NHMP operate. At Braun Bay I have seen them discuss the rules with everyone, not just us Hi-Po Boaters. I think there has been a decision this summer to crackdown a bit on rafting & other relatively minor violations. I think the NHMP has a bit less to do this year with boat traffic being waaaaayyyy down, so they have the manpower to concentrate on the lesser violations.

All in all I think they do a GREAT job!

Woodsy

That's all well and good. But I'm far more concerned about the jet skiers and the tuber at dusk than I am about someone that did put their light on. If I'm the skipper of that boat, I'll take my medicine. But I'll also instruct the MP to look over yonder for a real accident waiting to happen. Poor judgment, or selective call?

[tis]

I DO think the MP gets a "cause" each year. It seems one year it was the decibel law, another the 150', etc. Has anyone else noticed that over the years? I don't know if they sit down at a meeting and say: "This year we are going to concentrate on the (such and such) law" or if it just kind of happens. I think a lot of times it is when the law is new too.

Last I knew, MP will not tow anyone, but they will call someone for you.

[Island-Ho]

Liberator - Your post indicates the alledged lighting infraction occurred between 8:15 and 8:30. This is very picky by MP, especially as you had turned on your lights before he stopped you. On 7/21 susnset was at 8:20pm, and lights are required between sunset and sunrise. MP probably waited until after the inquery and safety inspection before he wrote the ticket, so the time on the ticket will unfortunately be after sunset. I don't know what times are entered on a ticket, but you might want to compare those with actual sunset time. There is probably not enough accurate time noted to be of any use fighting it. Was the tuber there after he was finished with you? Maybe that was his next target.

[Airwaves]

Just to follow up on Island-Ho's thoughts

Even if the time of the ticket is at the end of the stop and after sunset wouldn't the MP boat call the stop into MPHQ when the stop was first initiated? So if you wanted to dispute the ticket and timeline the MPHQ should have the time of the inital stop written in their log.

BTW I beleive liberator said he was able to talk MP out of a ticket and just received a verbal warning.

As for MP targeting groups. If I had to venture a guess I'd say they are probably more focused on boats they believe might be able to go above the new speed limit law in anticipation of it taking effect. Kind of putting folks on notice this year. That, coupled with boat traffic being lighter they have less to do.

[Phantom]

Originally Posted by tis

I DO think the MP gets a "cause" each year. It seems one year it was the decibel law, another the 150', etc. Has anyone else noticed that over the years? I don't know if they sit down at a meeting and say: "This year we are going to concentrate on the (such and such) law" or if it just kind of happens. I think a lot of times it is when the law is new too.

Last I knew, MP will not tow anyone, but they will call someone for you.

tis -- Rightly or wrongly I have to agree with you 100% .......

I am also a firm believer that (for the most part) the MP do a great job & are (usually) fair. But I had to laugh at your post tis, for each year we go up to the lake it has always been a question of "what will be MP's -itch- this season".

[Winnipesaukee]

Can someone justify MP not carrying VHF radios? That really bothers me.

[Airwaves]

Just curious, did MP do a general broadcast on VHF 16 about the severe wx going through much of the area right now?

[NightWing]

Originally Posted by Winnipesaukee

Can someone justify MP not carrying VHF radios? That really bothers me.

They don't have to carry VHF radios. The VHF channels commonly used for emergency broadcasts are programmed in the police radios on board and in dispatch.

[liberator211]

Just for those of you who missed it I was able to get a verbal warning and never got a ticket. The earlier post regarding the time of infraction brings out a question; when should your lights be turned-on? I boat on many waterways including Winni and I was always under the understanding that your running lights should be on one hour before sunset by the book. Is the correct and the way the law reads? Thanks.

[kchace]

Originally Posted by liberator211

Just for those of you who missed it I was able to get a verbal warning and never got a ticket. The earlier post regarding the time of infraction brings out a question; when should your lights be turned-on? I boat on many waterways including Winni and I was always under the understanding that your running lights should be on one hour before sunset by the book. Is the correct and the way the law reads? Thanks.

No, sunset to sunrise.

"Saf-C 403.14 Time for Lights. Proper lighting, as required in Saf-C 403.15 and Saf-C 403.16, shall be displayed between sunset and sunrise. Lights shall be lighted at such times and no other lights which might be mistaken for the prescribed lights shall be exhibited."

Ken

[John A. Birdsall]

Originally Posted by Island-Ho

Liberator - Your post indicates the alledged lighting infraction occurred between 8:15 and 8:30. This is very picky by MP, especially as you had turned on your lights before he stopped you. On 7/21 susnset was at 8:20pm, and lights are required between sunset and sunrise. MP probably waited until after the inquery and safety inspection before he wrote the ticket, so the time on the ticket will unfortunately be after sunset. I don't know what times are entered on a ticket, but you might want to compare those with actual sunset time. There is probably not enough accurate time noted to be of any use fighting it. Was the tuber there after he was finished with you? Maybe that was his next target.

If my memory serves me correctly lights are to be turned on 1/2 hr before sunset and 1/2 hour after sunrise. Now I have not looked at the regs about this for some time, but I believe that is the case, which says the lights need to be on at 7:50 PM

[NightWing]

Originally Posted by John A. Birdsall

If my memory serves me correctly lights are to be turned on 1/2 hr before sunset and 1/2 hour after sunrise. Now I have not looked at the regs about this for some time, but I believe that is the case, which says the lights need to be on at 7:50 PM

Sorry John, that isn't correct. Read the rule in the post above yours. It is during the hours of darkness between sunset and sunrise.

[The Big Kahuna]

I have never seen MP do anything to help anyone. I have been boating for 20years on this lake, in that 20 years I never seen the MP stop to help anyone. Of the 10 - 15 boats I have helped over the years MP passed by at least 5 times, this includes sail boats that were turned over, boats that ran out of gas, boats that would not start. They passed by the boaters in need, and I stopped to help. In one case they circled back and gave me a hard time and used the old safety check on us, for what I still can't figure out. I was trying to help a sail boat by pulling his mast out of the water, I had tied a line to the back side of his boat and we were pulling them up-right. I could tell my story again about the time I ran out of gas with my inlaws on board, mother inlaw, sister inlaws with all their kids, late at night down in Alton Bay after the fireworks, with boats racing by, the MP 50 ft. away and refused to help me as I floated in the middle of the bay out of gas. I had to paddle the boat to shore and safety. I would tell that story again but the results would be the same, MP has still refused to help us. Bottom line is they could care less about boaters safety on this lake, as far as I am concerned they are useless and should be replaced by Fish and Game, who do a superior job, and do care about safety and are far better trained.

[Airwaves]

Originally posted by Nightwing
They don't have to carry VHF radios. The VHF channels commonly used for emergency broadcasts are programmed in the police radios on board and in dispatch.

Let me throw out this question then.
IIRC USCG regulations require commercial vessels to carry VHF and monitor VHF16.
Now I know that NH is a world unto itself and while USCG rules are accepted pretty much everywhere else in the US, not so in NH.
So, the question becomes are NH commercial vessels, and I would argue that the NHMP falls into this category, required under USCG rules to carry Marine VHF radios and monitor VHF 16?

BTW, I'll ask again. Did the NHMP issue a severe WX warning on VHF 16 for today's events?

[NightWing]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Let me throw out this question then.
IIRC USCG regulations require commercial vessels to carry VHF and monitor VHF16.
Now I know that NH is a world unto itself and while USCG rules are accepted pretty much everywhere else in the US, not so in NH.
So, the question becomes are NH commercial vessels, and I would argue that the NHMP falls into this category, required under USCG rules to carry Marine VHF radios and monitor VHF 16?

BTW, I'll ask again. Did the NHMP issue a severe WX warning on VHF 16 for today's events?

I doubt that CC regs, even if they applied to the MP boats would require a separate VHF radio when the on board Motorola carries the marine channels. It is the difference between a clock and a clock radio. The clock radio tells time the same as a clock.

As far as weather warnings, since you have your VHF radio, tune in to WX1 or WX2 for up to date weather. They broadcast all the time, continuously.

[Airwaves]

Originally posted by Nightwing
I doubt that CC regs, even if they applied to the MP boats would require a separate VHF radio when the on board Motorola carries the marine channels. It is the difference between a clock and a clock radio. The clock radio tells time the same as a clock.

As far as weather warnings, since you have your VHF radio, tune in to WX1 or WX2 for up to date weather. They broadcast all the time, continuously.

Okay so clear this up for me since based on your past posts it appears to me that you may be, or have once been, an officer of the NHMP or MP Auxilary? (Not being nosy but it would explain what appears to be some of your "inside" knowledge?)

First off yes, USCG regulations reguire a VHF radio on commercial vessels and that it be tuned to chanel 16 at all times while underway. Some vessel are also required to carry a second VHF radio tuned to channel 13 (bridge to bridge) and a third SSB radio. This is in addition to whatever company radio might be involved.

The onboard Motorola NHMP vessels carry. You say it carries the VHF marine channels. Do those Motorola radios allow the MP crews two-way communications with recreational/USCG vessels (AirOps) on those channels or are we talking about a boat with a built-in scanner (monitor only) on board?

If they are equipped, do NHMP boats monitor VHF 16 at all times while underway as required by USCG regulation?

As for WX warnings, certainly you can tune your VHF Radio to WX (xx) for the latest, but since boats are required to monitor VHF 16, and older VHF radios don't have a scan feature, it would be NICE if the MP gave boaters a heads up, ya think? USCG Group Portland certainly does, but Group Portland (audible on Winnipesaukee) is concerned about it's own operating area, that does NOT include the Lakes Region of NH.

So, we still have TWO questions pending. Why don't MP boats have VHF Marine radios, and DID the NHMPHQ issue a marine warning broadcast today?

[Skip]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

...So, we still have TWO questions pending. Why don't MP boats have VHF Marine radios, and DID the NHMPHQ issue a marine warning broadcast today?...

HERE is the contact page for the good folks over at NHMP.

I am sure they will happily and directly answer your pertinent questions...perhaps you can share the answers with us after you speak to them!

Skip

[Airwaves]

Since I am leaving on vacation for the coast of Maine Saturday what I will do is copy the last few posts and forward them to the NHMP contact page that you have linked to requesting they post the answer here on Winnipesaukee.com/forums.

Hopefully when I get back I'll have an answer.
AW

[Airwaves]

I copied and pasted posts number 30, 31, 32, 37, 38. 39. 40 to the link Skip gave us.

[NightWing]

Mr. Airwaves, I have followed many of your posts and have replied to a few of them.

I am of the belief that you take great pleasure in trying to make the MP look incompetent. You post questions on here that you tend to question the answers given. You seem to doubt everyone here even when RSA's are quoted directly.

This last go around about VHF radios and whether the MP broadcast a weather warning and do the MP boats meet CG regs which actually don't apply on NH inland waters.

I think the best thing is for you to direct all your questions, comments and suspicions about NHMP to their headquarters in Gilford. I am sure they would be happy to respond to you. After all, inquiring minds want to know.

[Airwaves]

Mr Nightwing
I question issues of safety regarding whether the MP have VHF radios onboard, utilize them and make general safety broadcasts to the boating public on Lake Winnipesaukee.

So because an RSA doesn't say a VHF Marine broadcast warning boaters of danger should be made, does that mean it shouldn't be made? Safety applies then only to ocean boaters?

Mr. Nightwing, please quote the RSA that says NHMP should leave the warning broadcasts on VHF 16 to the USCG aimed only at vessels on costal waters, after all you say I challenge RSAs even with they are directly quoted.

If you had bothered to read the post directly above your response you would have seen that I have submitted these questions to the NHMP.

As for questioning opinions on this forum....golly gee, I didn't realize that everything you say must be true because you say so....I'm so sorry

[NightWing]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Mr Nightwing
I question issues of safety regarding whether the MP have VHF radios onboard, utilize them and make general safety broadcasts to the boating public on Lake Winnipesaukee.

So because an RSA doesn't say a VHF Marine broadcast warning boaters of danger should be made, does that mean it shouldn't be made? Safety applies then only to ocean boaters?

Mr. Nightwing, please quote the RSA that says NHMP should leave the warning broadcasts on VHF 16 to the USCG aimed only at vessels on costal waters, after all you say I challenge RSAs even with they are directly quoted.

If you had bothered to read the post directly above your response you would have seen that I have submitted these questions to the NHMP.

As for questioning opinions on this forum....golly gee, I didn't realize that everything you say must be true because you say so....I'm so sorry

Keep it up.

[Lakegeezer]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

I question issues of safety regarding whether the MP have VHF radios onboard, utilize them and make general safety broadcasts to the boating public on Lake Winnipesaukee.

So because an RSA doesn't say a VHF Marine broadcast warning boaters of danger should be made, does that mean it shouldn't be made? Safety applies then only to ocean boaters?

If the MP started making weather broadcasts, wouldn't that set expectations that with no warning it is safe? I am pretty sure issuing warnings like this is not part of their charter. The MP is not set up to constantly monitor for unsafe conditions and might be too busy to issue a warning if there was an impending problem. Instead of the MP, it might be more practical for VHF users on the lake to warn each other. Would using channel 16 for this qualify as appropriate use?

[Mee-n-Mac]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

{snip}
So, we still have TWO questions pending. Why don't MP boats have VHF Marine radios, and DID the NHMPHQ issue a marine warning broadcast today?

Well I'm not with the NHMP (nor do I play one on TV) but I can guess as well as the next guy. They don't have VHF radios because they aren't needed and cost $$. Last I knew the NHMP are not commercial vessels, they'd fall into the category of Gov't use. I can't see the USCG regs as being applicable even on those boats operating off the coast.

As for #2 ... Probably not and because it's not in their charter. Same deal as towing. Frankly they are ample ways to get weather info these days from sources whose job it is to provide weather info. I'm not sure I'd want the NHMP to get into that "business" short of extreme emergency.

[Winnipesaukee]

VHF radios cost maybe $200 per boat to install. I personally believe every wind or machine-powered vessel should be required to carry one. Handhelds are as low as $40. There really is no excuse not to have one.

Let's look at it from another angle. I'm in my old small sailboat in a remote area of the lake (some cove in Moultonboro Bay let's say) and my gooseneck breaks. A tow into my house 1/2 mile away would be nice. The only boat I see is a MP boat a mile away. So I figure, "Wow, this is my lucky day," and try to hail them on 16. They don't answer and drive off.

How about this: there is a boat full of reckless drunks, getting too close to other boats on plane, throwing garbage overboard, etc. I go to call MP to report the incident but remember that they don't have VHF radios. So I get the bow numbers and call MP on shore, but not before the boat waked a kayak enough to swamp it.

These, of course, are hypothetical.

Nobody has justified the lack of radios yet. Besides a life jacket, VHF radios are the number one safety device on a boat.

[Kamper]

Originally Posted by Winnipesaukee

VHF radios cost maybe $200 per boat to install. I personally believe every wind or machine-powered vessel should be required to carry one. Handhelds are as low as $40. ... Besides a life jacket, VHF radios are the number one safety device on a boat.

I was going to make a cheap joke about #2 but the mood passed.


Before anyone buys a cheaper handheld, try to view the manual on-line. Some of them are only water 'resistant' not 'waterproof.' I got a Midland version for $60 a few years back and they included a plastic bag to make it completly water-proof.

The bargain versions are better than nothing bit are really more of the toy category than tool category. They make ok scanners if you enjoy monitorring the traffic from ashore. I already had an installed VHF and have since changed to a DSC model so I wasn't trying to get off cheap on my main gear. If it is all a person can afford right now, then get that piece of gear and hope for the best.

http://www.winnipesaukee.com/forums/...land#post28280

This link is to a thread where I reviewed the item I mentionned. Since then better bargain products have come on the market and I'm sure a good hand-held can be bought for under $100.

Good luck!

[Airwaves]

I'm just back from a lovely vacation on the coast of Maine. While on the coast I was listening to the USCG.

I found it interesting that the USCG Sector Northern New England issued a severe thunderstorm warning for INTERIOR NH a week ago Sunday. The same area that was devistated by wx leaving one woman dead recently.

Funny the USCG will warn boaters and of severe weather for an area outside of their AOR but the NH Marine Patrol doesn't take a similar responsibility for their own AOR! Go ahead and justify why the Marine Patrol won't do it for the boating public while they do make the announcements to their own crews all you want.

I was also surprised by the different approach of public safety people regarding interaction with tourists. The local PD did a sweep of the beach several times while I was there and listening. How many arrests? Zero. How many warnings? 94 during the first sweep. Warnings vs tickets.

It seems that some resort areas are much better at dealing with their "Golden goose" than others.

Looking back at the post that started this thread I'd say NH needs to get its act together or folks (like me) will continue generating money in NH but spend it in Maine.

Go ahead bash away

[Skip]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

...Looking back at the post that started this thread I'd say NH needs to get its act together or folks (like me) will continue generating money in NH but spend it in Maine...

Ah, the good ol' days....

1992

[Airwaves]

Hey Skip,

1992 heh? I'm better than I thought, posting I was leaving the forum 14 years before I ever heard about the forum or joined!

Join Date
02-13-2006
Total Posts
782
Blog Entries
0

Nope, I'm not going away, just my disposable income

[Skip]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Hey Skip,

1992 heh? I'm better than I thought, posting I was leaving the forum 14 years before I ever heard about the forum or joined!


Nope, I'm not going away, just my disposable income

1992 is the attachment number...the post date is in 2006, after another one of your long and tireless rants against the State in general and the Marine Patrol in particular, and is clearly embedded in the attachment.

[Airwaves]

Nope, still not seeing 1992, as a matter of fact if the information contained is correct I have only posted twice since the post date of 2006!

Something that I did learn during my trip to the coast of Maine that I will pass along. While out on Winnipesaukee in the past I have heard the Coast Guard Portland on my VHF radio issue a "Securite" for severe weather information and been instructed to switch to channel 22 Alpha. I never bothered to switch to 22 Alpha assuming that the severe weather information pertained only to the coast of Maine and not interior NH.

After these past couple of weeks, learning the NHMP doesn't issue these weather warnings to NH boaters, but the Coast Guard in Maine does issue a broadcast when severe weather is in the Winnipesaukee area, I'll be switching to channel 22 Alpha to make certain.

It's funny though, after a number of my "rants" about the way NH does business or about the NHMP I have read several others make the very same suggestions I was bashed for several months later...so when I suggest something that might make something easier or clear up an ambiguity it's just me trying to make NH more like Mass because I'm from "away"?

That's mighty neighborly of ya'll, so I'll take the money I generate in NH and spend it in a place that is actually friendly to folks from "away"

Yep, careful what you wish for...you might get it. No, not me leaving, just my disposable income leaving and more importantly others with disposable income finding other resort communities that are happy to see us

[topwater]

Airwaves, OUTSTANDING POST! 1 Down -- 200,000 out staters to go. Please check in with us every once in awhile, and lets us know where the good lobster places are. Have a WONDERFUL TIME, and don't forget to tell all your buddies about how great Maine is. There is a MOOSEHEAD LAKE FORUM, so, go get-em tiger~!!

[Airwaves]

Too many black flies at Moosehead! Nope, the coast is lovely!

A final note to bring it back to my original thoughts before Skip jumped in to wave goodbye.

Why doesn't the NHMP warn NH boaters, like they do with their own crews, when severe weather is approaching? Someone pointed out that it might take too much time to monitor the weather at NHMP HQ but since they already warn their own crews it appears they do monitor the weather and are aware of dangerous conditions.

And to bring up my observation on the differing ways public safety officials treat tourists...94 warnings, no tickets and no arrests...just letting tourists know about a town by-law vs the situation outlined in the first post of this thread. I seem to remember other posts involving the NHMP picking off boaters as they left the Weirs...maybe it was on the 4th of July or there about?

Those kinds of stories, coupled with the fear mongering that's been going on for the past 4 years or so, are going to cost Winnipesaukee merchants and ultimately property taxpayers in the long run.

Yankee (out-of-staters) go home, just leave your money!

[Phantom]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Why doesn't the NHMP warn NH boaters, like they do with their own crews, when severe weather is approaching? Someone pointed out that it might take too much time to monitor the weather at NHMP HQ but since they already warn their own crews it appears they do monitor the weather and are aware of dangerous conditions.

Airwaves -- I can say from "first hand" knowledge that Your Wrong!

We were at the Lake from 7/22 through 8/2 and I personally heard three or four different broadcasts from MP concerning "severe Thunderstorms" (on different days mind you).

Food for thought: Weather advisories, directions, etc use to be the realm of "Mighty Mo" ----- As it seems (to me at least) that "Mighty Mo" is on air less often, for obvious reasons -- it would appear that MP has picked up the slack in announcing Severe Weather warnings

[Airwaves]

Originally posted by Phantom
Airwaves -- I can say from "first hand" knowledge that Your Wrong!

We were at the Lake from 7/22 through 8/2 and I personally heard three or four different broadcasts from MP concerning "severe Thunderstorms" (on different days mind you).

It's about time someone answered the question one way or another.

Just over two weeks ago on 7/22 in post #19 I first raised the issue of whether the NHMP issued such warnings during the recent weather. On 7/24 in post #31 I flat out asked forum members if anyone had heard such a broadcast by the NHMP. Two weeks later you are the only person who has responded to that question.

So does that mean it didn't happen or that you're (correct contraction) the only one on the forum that had their Marine VHF radio on?

BTW, I was up at the lake during Bike Week (6/15-6/22). A tornado warning was issued by the NWS I think on the Saturday of that week. I heard the NHMP on their dispatch frequency warn NHMP crews to seek shelter but I did NOT hear a corresponding broadcast on Marine VHF 16 to give the boating public the same warning. (Yes I was listening to both)

I wonder if the NHMP started issuing these warnings after we started discussing the question? If so GREAT! Keep it up!

[Joanna16]

As this horse is just about dead now . . . . . I started this thread just to point out that there is a right time and place for all actions: mine, yours and Marine Patrols.
I did not expect MP to warn me of the storm - I am not stupid I checked the weather for the day I knew storms would be popping up.
I did HOWEVER think that the appropriate time to talk about rafting, spacing, anchoring etc was not as we were about to get hit by one of these storms.
I did expect MP to be more concerned with our safty during the impending weather.
I did expect that the 50+ boats that left prior to the storm in a pack at 45+ mph would cause MP to find something better to do than harass me.

Knowing the weather condition for the day is part of your boater safty obligation. How you obtain that info is up to you: a weather radio, a cell phone, a Blackberry with intrnet . . . . etc

[Airwaves]

Originally posted by Joanna16
I did not expect MP to warn me of the storm - I am not stupid I checked the weather for the day I knew storms would be popping up.

Then I guess we'll leave it that your interpretation of the NHMP Mission statement and mine are different!

The Marine Patrol’s mission is to provide a safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible use for all of the State’s public waters.

Safe to me would include notification of dangerous situations, be it weather related or other, when I am on my boat in NH.

We all know that checking the weather before you go out for the day is critical and good boating practice, but as anyone who has ever spent more than a day in New England also knows, the weather can change and become dangerous very quickly in spite of the forecast.

If you're out on the lake, grooving to tunes on XM while rafting then it certainly would be nice to get a heads up that a tornado is moving through the area...ya think?
(just a guess on my part but I doubt that anyone leaves a wx radio running while underway or rafting)

The Coast Guard does it (and they have more responsibilities and duties to perform than the NHMP) so it is not unreasonable to expect the Marine Patrol to provide the same service they provide to their own crews, to the boating public as well in order to help keep NH boaters SAFE. out.

[NightWing]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

The Coast Guard does it (and they have more responsibilities and duties to perform than the NHMP) so it is not unreasonable to expect the Marine Patrol to provide the same service they provide to their own crews, to the boating public as well in order to help keep NH boaters SAFE. out.

So, by that analysis, your local town/city government should be able to man and bankroll countless services and programs as well as the US Government.

[Rose]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

(just a guess on my part but I doubt that anyone leaves a wx radio running while underway or rafting)

I can verify that your guess is wrong...we also bring the lightning detector. But we're a couple of weather weenies, so we might not count.

[chipj29]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Then I guess we'll leave it that your interpretation of the NHMP Mission statement and mine are different!

Safe to me would include notification of dangerous situations, be it weather related or other, when I am on my boat in NH.

We all know that checking the weather before you go out for the day is critical and good boating practice, but as anyone who has ever spent more than a day in New England also knows, the weather can change and become dangerous very quickly in spite of the forecast.

If you're out on the lake, grooving to tunes on XM while rafting then it certainly would be nice to get a heads up that a tornado is moving through the area...ya think?
(just a guess on my part but I doubt that anyone leaves a wx radio running while underway or rafting)

The Coast Guard does it (and they have more responsibilities and duties to perform than the NHMP) so it is not unreasonable to expect the Marine Patrol to provide the same service they provide to their own crews, to the boating public as well in order to help keep NH boaters SAFE. out.

I would not expect that from MP. I am perfectly capable of keeping myself safe. In fact, it is my personal responsibility. But we have no more room for that in NH anymore, do we?

I don't have a radio of any kind on my boat. Should there be a law that states I must have one? That way, the MPs broadcast would be sure to reach everyone!

[Phantom]

Airwaves --

Why do you persist in beating your own drum ????

I told you NHMP DOES broadcast weather warnings !! I heard them myself ........ let your issues with trying to beat up on MP go. Geeeeez

[Airwaves]

Sometimes some of you people truely amaze me.

We are talking about a NHMP dispatcher picking up a microphone on a Marine VHF radio and saying the following:
Securiety, securitey security, hello all stations, this is the New Hampshire Marine Patrol Glendale. Switch channel 1-7 for severe weather broadcast information...out.

Channel 1-7...Securiety security secuirty, hello all stations this is the New Hampshire Marine Patrol Glendale...the National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for Belknap and Carroll Counties until 2:45. The warning includes but is not limited to Laconia, etc etc.

How much time and money did that take to read?

Nightwing:
So, by that analysis, your local town/city government should be able to man and bankroll countless services and programs as well as the US Government.

chipj29
I would not expect that from MP. I am perfectly capable of keeping myself safe. In fact, it is my personal responsibility. But we have no more room for that in NH anymore, do we?

I don't have a radio of any kind on my boat. Should there be a law that states I must have one? That way, the MPs broadcast would be sure to reach everyone!

Rose:
Quote:

I can verify that your guess is wrong...we also bring the lightning detector. But we're a couple of weather weenies, so we might not count.

Phantom
Airwaves --

Why do you persist in beating your own drum ????

I told you NHMP DOES broadcast weather warnings !! I heard them myself ........ let your issues with trying to beat up on MP go. Geeeeez

So you'd rather that NH's boating safety agency NOT alert boaters to dangers? Why have AToN's? Find out where the rocks are yourself! NHMP doesn't do tows so why are they even in existance? To enforce rafting laws?? Local Police can respond to other issues!!!

Chip if you don't have a radio on board that's your problem, why should I be denied the advantage of the knowledge of approaching danger because you choose not to have a radio?

Phantom, as I pointed out you are the ONLY person to claim to have heard a broadcast and I personally was up there during a tornado warning and heard NO SUCH BROADCAST to the general boating public. Why do I persist in this? To save a life! Maybe mine, maybe yours, who knows?

Truely, I am amazed at the objection to something as simple as this that will provide a safety tool to the NH boating public! But then again, I am from AWAY!

1626

[NightWing]

Mr Airwaves, on 7-24, in post #42, you claimed to be contacting NHMP with your concerns, questions and demands for information. In your next post, #43, you referenced a list of posts from this thread that you sent to them prior to your vacation.

Now that you are back, many of us are anxious to read their response to you.

[Airwaves]

Mr. Nightwing.
I did receive an answer from the NHMP. I sent the request under my real name and email and received a response under the same.

I have asked you prior what your connection to the NHMP (or law enforcement) was and you have not responded. Unless you state otherwise I will assume that you have a connection to NHMP or law enforcement and that if I post the response you would be able to determine my identity. (or maybe you already know it!)

Now, how about commenting on the post above or are you just trying to change the subject?

1626

[NightWing]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Mr. Nightwing.
I did receive an answer from the NHMP. I sent the request under my real name and email and received a response under the same.

I have asked you prior what your connection to the NHMP (or law enforcement) was and you did not respond so unless you state otherwise I will assume you have a connection and if I post the response you would be able to determine my identity. (or maybe already know it!)

Your move.

No sir, I do not have access to your identity, nor do I care who you are. I am sure that I am not the only one interested in the response you received. Failure to present those answers to the forum might lead to speculation that your criticisms and comments did not elicit the reply you were expecting or wanted. My identity or profession is not an issue. Nobody questions your credentials or background when you post. Nobody shall question mine when I respond.

Let's just say that I slept in a Holiday Inn Express last night.

Your move.

[Airwaves]

Okay, here it is Batman. (although you still have not confirmed or denied you are law enforcement or NHMP) It seems according to your boss we are both correct !

*****************************

I received your question and also reviewed the thread on-line concerning VHF radios/patrol boats/broadcasts. The Marine Patrol currently programs their radios with a number of marine VHF frequencies. Some of our boats are equipped with a separate marine VHF radio but not all. This depends on the ability of the boat to produce the necessary power to support the electronics on board. We have had to prioritize our electronics package and a second VHF is often on the low end of that list.

Our officers on Winnipesaukee are not required to monitor channel 16 (although they may choose to) for a variety of reasons:

1. Our dispatch center monitors VHF 16, and the activity at those centers is recorded so that emergency requests are documented.

2. The radio traffic on 16, especially on weekends, can become overwhelming when an officer is required to constantly monitor police, EMS, and public frequencies.

3. Very few emergency calls are being reported by radio, and we have not received any reports that emergencies have gone unanswered by our dispatchers. Most calls are now received via cell phone through 911 and fewer to our direct emergency lines.

4. There is no guarantee that an officer will hear a report via VHF if their radio is receiving on another channel or if the officer is responding to another call. This would create a very angry boater if they had an expectation that the officer should answer them and he/she continues down the lake.

5. Believe it or not, many times a boater does not know where they are located. If an officer takes the time to work through this important detail over the radio, their response time can be seriously delayed. Our practice is to dispatch the officer to a general area and pass on more detail as it is determined. Unfortunately we rarely respond to specific addresses! J

As for the weather broadcasts, when we receive notification of severe weather warnings, notices are broadcasted to officers and the public. However, if a boater is not within range of our broadcast, or they are on another body of water, obviously they would not be aware of the potential problem. I will add that this holds true for our police frequencies as well. Unfortunately New Hampshire topography can be uncooperative with radio waves. As suggested in the thread, the NOAA broadcasts are the safest source. I know our officers on the seacoast and in the remote areas of the state rely on the VHF wx channels regularly.

I hope this clears up any questions that exist as they pertain to our policies on Lake Winnipesaukee.

Safe Boating!!

Tim Dunleavy
Lt. NH Marine Patrol

[NightWing]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Okay, here it is Batman. (although you still have not confirmed or denied you are law enforcement or NHMP) It seems according to your boss we are both correct !

Let me assure you that you did NOT talk to my boss.

[Airwaves]

I'm sorry Mr. President!

1626

[Resident 2B]

Originally Posted by NightWing

No sir, I do not have access to your identity, nor do I care who you are. I am sure that I am not the only one interested in the response you received. Failure to present those answers to the forum might lead to speculation that your criticisms and comments did not elicit the reply you were expecting or wanted. My identity or profession is not an issue. Nobody questions your credentials or background when you post. Nobody shall question mine when I respond.

Let's just say that I slept in a Holiday Inn Express last night.

Your move.

I am a retired engineering VP of a fortune 100 company.

I would guess that Night Wing is somehow involved in law enforcement by the way he or she answers postings. If he or she is not involved in law enforcement, he or she should respond in a more friendly and open manner and not respond in such a manner that by it's structure clearly tries to imply he or she is a law officer.

Tell it as it is!

I am sleeping in my home at the Weirs tonight. I have never slept at a Hoilday Inn Express, thank God! Therefore, based upon advertising, I may not know what I am talking about!

Good night John Boy!

R2B

[Skipper of the Sea Que]

Originally Posted by Joanna16

So there we were Saturday legally anchored down in Braun Bay. {snip}
Along comes Marine Patrol - we figured they we stopping by as a courtsey to tell us to check our anchors and hunker down - NOT. They came in to check our 25ft. Seriously?

When asked about the storm they said they did not know but 2 boats near to us were not legally achored and had to move. Is this really the time to be splitting hairs about the 25ft rule?????

What about the safety of that boat and it's passengers was going to be effected by them moving 5ft further away for that other boat???? Isn't it better that the captain was not physically in the water when the storm hit?

First, to Joanna16's thread starter. Why did MP enforce no-rafting rules rather than warn you about the storm? You answered your own question about the storm warning: They said they did not know... they would have to know about the storm before they could warn you. They probably did not know about it at MP Headquarters therefore no warning to the Patrol Boats or on VHF 16. This may be the storm that CLA talked about in the weather thread HERE mentioning that warnings came late, after the storm passed.

I was not at the lake during the storm however, in years past I have heard the Marine Patrol issue weather warnings on VHF channel 16. Most of us have heard Bill, (Mighty Mo II) issue weather warnings on VHF 16 over many years. He is a member of the Marine Patrol Auxiliary and a great help to boaters. If he is on-the-air less this season I hope it is because he is out using his recently regained vision.

I've also heard the Captain of the Mount Washington issue weather warnings on VHF 16 in addition to numerous recreational boaters.

Lt. Dunleavy responded to Airwaves' e-mails with very logical explanations. I think the MP does a fine job. I'd like to see more of them. The few times I've been stopped over the last few decades I knew why as soon as I saw those blue lights. The officers were very courteous and efficient. They wanted to be sure I knew the rules. They agreed with my judgement calls and I did not receive any tickets.

I like to listen to communications radios and have trouble keeping an ear on Channel 16 sometimes myself. Kids, chit chat, radio checks (calling MP, MP, is my radio working?) and other improper uses of channel 16 make it hard even for me to always listen. Imagine all the stuff MP listens to at dispatch and (over motor noise) in patrol boats. Distress calls to MP via VHF 16 if not heard directly by MP dispatch should be heard by someone who will relay the message - even call them on the phone to get them on Ch 16. I can easily understand why MP patrol boats don't normally communicate on VHF Ch 16 - The dispatcher is the one to handle 2-way radios and telephone calls for aid from the public.

No Rafting Rules enforcement at Braun Bay is nothing new. I chuckled while reading the Forum Archives from 2000 about the Braun Bay MP Invasion. For some interesting reading try these threads:
5 - 7 MP boats invade Braun Bay. And more discussion of Braun Bay invasion. My comment post on No Rafting Zone activities from June 2000 is found HERE.

A few familiar names in those archives (Rose, was that you back then?) and similar complaints - I wonder how many current forum regulars posted to those threads under other names - no registration was required to post back in those days.

Airwaves, I know who you are - and I might accept bribes - I do need a new boat

Kayakers love water - a kayakers body is comprised of 80 - 85% water - therefore kayakers love most of themselves

[Phantom]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

As for the weather broadcasts, when we receive notification of severe weather warnings, notices are broadcasted to officers and the public.

Tim Dunleavy
Lt. NH Marine Patrol

Like I said, before you indirectly challenged my credibility ..... you Are WRONG ....... NHMP DOES issue broadcasts and I've heard them. Skipper of the Que has too and makes a good point about the Captain of the Mount issuing some warnings (which I've also heard in the past) as well from their onboard weather radar. I'm sure many others here have heard these as well but just don't bother addressing your fixation ........... now give it up, your wasting bandwidth

[Rose]

Originally Posted by Airwaves

Phantom, as I pointed out you are the ONLY person to claim to have heard a broadcast and I personally was up there during a tornado warning and heard NO SUCH BROADCAST to the general boating public. Why do I persist in this? To save a life! Maybe mine, maybe yours, who knows?

So do you think Lt. Dunleavy was lying when he told you in his response that they broadcast notices to their officers AND the public?

In your town in AWAY, if it has a reverse 911 system, do you expect the police to use that system to notify everyone of incoming severe weather? Or the cruisers to broadcast that info as they drive around town? If not, why not?

[Airwaves]

So let me get this straight.

I bring up the question on July 22 and 24...Did the NHMP issue a severe wx warning?

More than 2 weeks go by before ONE person answers saying they heard the NHMP issue a severe wx warning for other storms.

Still time goes by and NO ONE ELSE chims in....

Lt Dunleavy responds to a note I sent him and says, among other things, that the NHMP issues warnings when they are aware of them.

Then people come out of the woodwork saying Yes, I heard it!

So for more than 2 weeks no one says they heard anything and I ask the question why not and now you are coming down on me like I lit the fuse that blew up the Old Man of the Mountain!

Isn't discussion a great thing? Guess not.

[Silver Duck]

Perhaps the MP has only recently learned from this thread that this is something the boating community would appreciate having them do, because this weekend they most certainly did broadcast a warning (along with relaying a report of large hail observed by an MP boat on Newfound Lake.)

IMHO, some positive feedback to such broadcasts when made (acknowledging the broadcast and thanking them for the advisory) is in order so as to demonstrate that we do, indeed, appreciate the service (as long as our responses don't get out of hand and clog CH 16.)

Silver Duck

[VtSteve]

Great point. I'd suggest a follow up in writing. If they get enough letters, they know that people are listening, and appreciative.

[Phantom]

Great Point Sliver Duck --

When I have heard them in the past after a minute or so with no one else responding I usually transmit "Recieved, and thank you Marine Patrol". I figure it must give the dispatcher some sort of positive feeling that someone out there heard her/him.

On the other hand I really don't think more than one or two folks need to tie up the channel with a response.