Proposal on boat speed would be bad change

If the bills promoting the end of horsepower restrictions on Lake Macbride succeed, the horsepower restriction would be replaced with a year-round no-wake zone. What is not being publicized is the fact that there is also a move to change the definition of “no wake” speed to a prescribed speed of 5 mph to 10 mph. This would allow larger boats with larger engines to legally create wakes.

An 18-foot boat with a 150-horsepower engine will produce a wake when moving at 5 mph to

10 mph, particularly when starting and stopping. Who will take responsibility for the injuries caused by this wake that would be lawful under this proposed change?

I don't think it would take a good lawyer to find the lawmakers and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources at fault if this change were made in the face of accepted norms.

Steve Callaway

Solon