Safe Wakes Coalition
The Safe Wakes Coalition is a nonprofit organization that brings together a provincewide group of stakeholders to protect Ontario’s environment, economy, its citizens, and its businesses from a growing threat.
Over the years, wakes have been causing damage to property and lake health. Recently the threat has increased significantly due to excessively large wakes close to shore and boats generating enhanced wakes. These wakes are impactingenvironment, personal safety and will affect local business and jobs, lake health and everyone’s property values.
Specific threats include:
- Habitat destruction for wildlife
- Accelerated shoreline erosion
- Personal safety on the water and on shore
- Redistribution of potentially toxic substances and the risk of algae blooms
- Potential negative impact on property values and local business
In consultation with all the affected stakeholders and Transport Canada we plan to develop a province wide manageable solution that mitigates wakes close to shore and from wake surfing activities. Seeking to ensure a sustainable future for Ontario's lakes and communities, while maintaining reasonable and enjoyable boating activities. We will study and learn from other jurisdictions around the world who are also working towards wake mitigating legislation.
Some solutions could include regulations on:
- Distance from Shore
- Depth of Lake
- Lake Size