Member Update August 31st 2009

As we all know on the 27th of July the OSMB voted against the “No Wake Zone” proposal in the Holgate Channel and Ross Island Lagoon. Some considered this a win, but we know this is the farthest thing from a win. Simply this agenda has been tabled temporally.

After the vote, we, the coalition along with a few others, began to open the doors of communication with the paddle community, the pleasure boaters, yacht community, fishing and other special interest groups alike.

So far we have had one meeting and scheduled the second meeting for late September. We have been known so far as the "ad hoc" group since this is a non-sanctioned citizen group. However, even though this group is not sanctioned by the marine board, for all those attending the last OSMB hearing, you heard it recommended at that meeting that all groups come together and start to work on a combined lower Willamette recreation plan for downtown Portland.

At the first “ad hoc” meeting no real plan was formulated, so to speak, just plans for future meetings, invitations to the representatives of the interested groups, and agendas which consist of information gathering for all to share with the collective group.

I will say there was an overwhelming common attitude in the room that we “CAN” work out a plan that suits all activities in and around the Holgate Channel and Ross Island Lagoon. Education and awareness will always remain the number one focus to help remedy the safety and boating conflict concerns that are had by all.

General things to remember moving forward:

Watch your wakes.

Be courteous and aware of others around you (Powered and Non-Powered).

Self Policing needs to be present in congested areas if conflicts are spotted (for everyone).

Pick up after yourself, pack out what you packed in.

Keep stereo volumes respectful in public and sensitive areas.

Obey by all the written laws, including the rules of the road.

Thank you again for supporting and being a part of a group of people attempting to preserve the boating rights for everyone; powered and non-powered alike.

Aaron Jarvis
Lower Willamette Board Member

“Protecting the Rights for Recreational Boaters' through Organization, Education and Action…”