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October 2011

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

those involved have to say about these concerns.

As summer turns to fall and the boating season winds down for many, we take time to appreciate the memories made on the water in recent months. The vessels with which we navigate the Great Lakes and other waterways allow us to escape our onshore lives for fun, adventure, togetherness and relaxation in nature.

This issue’s boat feature perfectly captures the freedom our pastime allows. For more than 30 years, Fountain Powerboats has crafted sleek, high-performing boats with a mission to make them the fastest, smoothest, safest, best handling and most dependable on the water. These top-quality creations satisfy cruisers, fishermen and speed demons alike.

No matter what purpose boating serves in our individual lives, as a community that shares this passion, we wish to preserve the waters we frequent. This issue includes two features examining threats to the Great Lakes—Asian carp and offshore wind farms. On the surface, both may appear harmful; however, closer examination reveals some potential benefits.

In the fight to stop the Asian carp, we might find solutions that not only halt the aquatic invasive species’ spread but also feed people around the world and even improve the Chicago Area Waterways. Proposed wind turbines off the U.S. coasts and Great Lakes’ shores have recreational boaters and fi shermen worried about the implications. We take a closer look at a pilot project that seems to be gaining ground near Cleveland and hear what

Another feature profiles a company that has served boaters for more than four decades. Operated by boaters and founded by a boater looking to improve the way we shop for boating supplies, West Marine provides most everything we need from quality rope to foulweather gear in its immense catalog and well-stocked stores.

Our spotlights this issue provide useable information to improve your maritime experiences. The first pits inverters against generators in an effort to determine which provides the best power source. Weighing the benefits and drawbacks, we attempt to determine the ultimate champion for your needs.

On a more serious note, the second spotlight informs readers on how to stay safe when visibility is limited.

We all know how rapidly visibility can be diminished by adverse weather conditions, but knowledge and preparation can help minimize safety risks when boating in fog, snow or heavy rain. The U.S. Coast Guard tells us what navigation lights are required, as well as when and how they are to be used, and also provides information on sound devices.

As always, our news sections include many updates from around the Great Lakes and the nation, share the latest nautical products and offer glimpses into boating’s various niches.

We at Great Lakes Boating remain committed to staying on top of the issues impacting boaters. As an informed community, we can unite to protect our pastime and the waters on which we recreate. Join us by becoming a member of the Great Lakes Boating Federation. It is the only guardian looking after you.

VISIT THE NE W IMPROVED AND MORE MOBILE FRIENDLY

GREATLAKESBOATING.COM GIVE US YOUR FEEDBACK letters@greatlakesboating.com 04 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen Managing Editor Karen Malonis Contributing Writers Mike Baron Kim Seitz Don Wilson Assistant Editor Jenifer Fischer Graphic Design Mila Ryk Andrea Vasata Web Design Leo Dempsey

Advertising | Sales Inquiries Neil Dikmen p 312.266.8400 • f 312.266.8470 e info@greatlakesboating.com Michigan | Ohio M2Media Company Mark Moyer • p 248.840.0749 e m2mediaco@sbcglobal.net

GREAT LAKES BOATING® Magazine (ISSN 1937-7274) © 2011 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610. p 312.266.8400 or e kmalonis@greatlakesboating.com Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available online at greatlakesboating.com and at any of the distribution centers and newsstands in areas surrounding the Great Lakes. Postmaster should forward all undelivered issues to Great Lakes Boating Magazine, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610.

All manuscripts should be accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Great Lakes Boating Magazine is not responsible and will not be liable for non-solicited manuscripts, including photographs.

Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume liability or ensure accuracy of the content contained in its articles, editorials, new product releases and advertising. Inquiries may be directed to the authors through the editorial office. Products, services and advertisements appearing in Great Lakes Boating Magazine do not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of their safety by Great Lakes Boating Magazine. Material in the publication may not be reproduced in any form without written consent of the Great Lakes Boating Magazine editorial and executive staff. Past copies may be purchased by sending a written request to the offices of Great Lakes Boating Magazine. For reprints contact: FosteReprints, p 800.382.0808 or f 219.879.8366.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

18 OTC

Fountain 38 Lightning *LOA: 38’

FEATURES

BEAM: 8’6”

FEATURES • FOUNTAIN POWERBOATS • THE REAL ASIAN CARP • WEST MARINE • WIND TURBINES

FRESHWATER CAPACITY: 13 gal.

DRAFT W/ DRIVE DOWN: 35”

12 18 24 28

FUEL CAPACITY: 180 gal.

Fountain Powerboats’ 38 Lightning is an ultra-performance boat that has become one of the company’s all-time

24

SPOTLIGHTS

SPOTLIGHTS • INVERTER VS. GENERATOR • LIMITED VISIBILITY

best sellers. Claiming numerous world and national championships, it delivers unparalleled performance and speed.

The Lightning series utilizes the legendary pad keel, notched transom and positive lift hull design. Add staggered engines to move the center of

22 32

gravity toward the keel, and the 38 takes performance boating to a new level.

Twin Mercury 525s with Bravo I drives will blast you through the water at speeds in excess of 95 mph, while twin 700s with NXT1 drives will push the 38’s speed to more than 115 mph.

28

32

Including state-of-the-art products and technology in 2012, every new Fountain is a better overall product than its predecessors—even previous Fountains.

Add to that new cockpit interiors, cabin upholstery, custom vinyl in the cockpits, and graphics packages for a boat that is

DEPARTMENTS

unlike any other in the world.

DEPARTMENTS

Every Fountain is water tested at the

IN THE NEWS IN THE NEWS • GREAT LAKES • FISHING • MARINAS • CRUISING • NATIONAL • SAILING

36 40 42 44 46 48

• PUBLISHER’S NOTE • EDITORIALS • LETTERS TO THE EDITOR • NEW PRODUCTS • BOAT CARE AND FEEDING • MARINE MART • EVENTS CALENDAR • ADVERTISER INDEX

04 08 10 50 52 54 55 56

company’s 250,000-square-foot “World Powerboats Headquarters” facility in Washington, N.C., prior to delivery. This means the boat is put in the water and run through the paces by Fountain’s own test drivers who will tweak it to ensure it is performance-ready upon reaching you.

Fountain Powerboats 1653 Whichards Beach Road Washington, NC 27889 800-438-2055 fountainpowerboats.com

06 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

Kiss the status quo goodbye.

The new 41 Cantius.

The incredible new 41 Cantius was ergonomically designed to put everything within easy reach. Such as sumptuous food, lively conversation and interesting friends. Its revolutionary open-concept design was made for entertaining guests, by inviting interaction and keeping everyone onboard engaged in the conversation. Plus, it also features the most advanced technology and amenities to make your 41 Cantius the most happening venue in town. Your weekends, and your life will never be the same. To experience the extraordinary new 41 Cantius, visit your dealer or go to CruisersYachts.com/glb

Scan this QR code for behind-the-scenes video of the new 41 Cantius.

See the new 41 Cantius, Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, October 27-31, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, G/H Dock. Booth 17-20.

EDITORIALS

Wind Turbines Stir Offshore Worries They continue to crop up around the globe, and now U.S.

will have on our recreational boating and fi shing industries as

waterways face the seemingly imminent addition of off shore

they attempt to rebound from recession. They may provide a

wind farms. Like their onshore relatives, these towering

boon in some places while infl icting harm elsewhere.

electricity-producing turbines will produce an alternative energy source—and alter the landscape.

We stand to lose so much more than our freedom. Th e 4.3 million boaters who enjoy the Great Lakes have an annual

With at least a dozen off shore wind energy projects proposed

$9.5 billion economic impact sure to be affected with the

on the coasts and in the Great Lakes, we ask, is nothing

development of these turbines. When faced with unfavorable

sacred? The Great Lakes’ vast, open waters remain among

conditions, this population has been known to pick up

those increasingly scarce places where nothing clutters the

and abandon their mooring harbors and host cities en

view. Boaters flock to these havens to cruise freely with the

masse to fi nd more hospitable locales. Those put off by the

wind in their faces; the sound of splashing waves and birds

turbines’ presence will not hesitate to fi nd new destinations

flying overhead provide a peaceful soundtrack. Fishermen set

with uncluttered waters and unobstructed views, thereby

their anchors to drop a line in this peaceful haven free from

damaging the economies of cities they once frequented.

artificial sounds other than passing boats.

Furthermore, we fear the impact on a $7 billion sportfi shing

Once these wind farms begin popping up around the Great

industry. We do know fi sh have sensitive auditory tissues and

Lakes, where do we draw the line? Will a green fl ag for the fi rst

can be adversely impacted by electromagnetic fields. While

one signify a figurative opening of the floodgates?

the turbines may att ract them, they may also repel them.

Perhaps turbines will be spaced far enough apart for easy

And what about the birds and butterfl ies traveling overhead?

travel, and maybe they will only cover small percentages of

Or the debris that stands to be churned up below? The

the lake. And, yes, it would seem those leading and permitt ing

answers may look good on paper, but we remain skeptical.

these projects are conducting due diligence to ensure minimal

Our freshwater lakes differ from saltwater oceans—the only

harm to the people and environments to be impacted. They

place wind farms currently reside. Studies may provide peace

seem benign in these early stages when only a handful have

of mind, but they only offer theory. Experience is the only way

been proposed; however, it is only the beginning. Look at the

to truly know the impact. Do we really want companies racing

big picture—many wind farms across the Great Lakes waters

to the forefront to place multiple wind farms throughout Great

with plans to expand. Limits will be set, but do we really know

Lakes waters before we fully understand the consequences?

for sure that common sense and sensitivity will be exercised as developments mature? Once everything has been approved

There are simply too many unknowns remaining.

and the turbines have been placed, will those in charge

While we recognize the environmental and economic benefits

continue listening to affected communities?

these offshore turbines may provide, without more concrete

While we understand the need to fi nd inventive ways to boost suffering economies, we fear the impact off shore wind farms

assurance, we remain unconvinced they can truly benefit recreational boaters and fi shermen.

Agree? Disagree? Want to Comment?

Email your thoughts to letters@greatlakesboating.com 08 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

The Great Lakes’ Scaly Savior In late July, three consecutive environmental DNA samples

manmade Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. Back then the

taken by the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee

river was a dumping ground, and this alteration allowed

tested positive for Asian carp. While heightened monitoring

sewage and other waste to flow away from Chicago and

over a four-day period yielded no fi sh, the threat remains real.

into Lake Michigan. While today’s stricter laws make for a

Their infi ltration seems more of a “when” than an “if.”

relatively cleaner waterway, un-reversing the river would force

Undoubtedly, the Asian carp would bring great harm upon the Great Lakes ecosystem and economy should it progress from the Illinois River where it currently resides into the

a change in other inadequate practices such as those allowing overflowing systems to dump untreated sewage into the river during storms.

Chicago Area Waterway System. Upon populating the Great

Studies are underway to determine the feasibility and costs

Lakes it would seep into additional rivers and tributaries, and

associated with reconfiguring the infrastructures of Chicago’s

we know eradicating an invasive species once it establishes a

Deep Tunnel to restore the river’s original flow. To do this

presence is all but impossible.

right, we must know exactly how to engineer them to accept

We still have time to stop the Asian carp by cutt ing off its path to destruction. If we choose the right solution, we might go so far as to thank it for providing a much-needed wake up call.

Currently the electric barriers remain the last line of defense against potential Great Lakes intruders. As far as we know, they have held the carp back successfully. However, they are but a temporary fi x. In another tactic, fi ve other Great Lakes states are demanding the closure of the Chicago Area Waterways locks to prevent them from reaching the Great Lakes. Such action doesn’t make sense. One heavy rainfall would be enough to sweep them over locks and other barriers and into the Chicago Area Waterways.

The hydrological severance and un-reversal of the Chicago River is the only surefi re way to prevent Asian carp from migrating into the Great Lakes. Physically separating the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal from the Illinois River would halt the invaders’ navigation between the Mississippi River and Lake Michigan by eliminating access to the Chicago Area Waterway System. Of course, such a plan would require

minimally treated water as they do now and also be able to take the sludge, dry it up and entomb it or sell it as fertilizer, then clean the water and return it to Lake Michigan. If Chicago managed its wastewater correctly, surrounding states could no longer claim the city gets an unfair deal.

Until this point, Chicago has not been subject to the same costly water-treatment process as its lakeside peers. They remove water and return it to Lake Michigan, treated. Without river systems similar to those the Windy City enjoys, they have no choice. Meanwhile, Chicago is afforded the opportunity to send wastewater on to the Mississippi River and flush it into the Gulf of Mexico without added cost or hassle.

Un-reversing the Chicago River and undergoing the correct treatment process means Chicago would retain the rights to the 2.1 billion gallons of water to which it is entitled. From this volume of water, it could take what it needs for drinking and sell the rest to parching communities. Additionally, cleaner waters mean safer waters for fi shing and recreation— activities that bolster local economies.

elevated and fortified flood-controlled walls to prevent the

While the cost of such a project is sure to be significant, we

waters from one system from flooding into the others.

stand to gain immensely. We still have time to save our Great

This solution would help heal an environmental wound infl icted more than a hundred years ago when the Chicago River was reversed to flow from Lake Michigan into the

Lakes from the Asian carp. By un-reversing the Chicago River to do so, we might one day see it not as a villain, but as the scaly savior that inspired us to clean up our act.

greatlakesboating.com | 09

LET TERS TO THE EDITOR

P UBLIC -P RIVATE PARTNERSHIPS KEY TO G ROWTH

We’ve found that oftentimes governments are more

I read your articles “Fate of Government-Built Marinas:

sustainable economic growth in their communities.

Privatization” and “Privatize North Point Marina?” in the August

They take on projects that benefit the community and

2011 issue with great interest. However, I was confused by

taxpayer by creating new recreational opportunities that

your use of the term “priv atization,” and your assertion that governments are unable to successfully construct and operate financially viable marinas. While the first article suggests that governments are incapable of doing so, the second article suggests that the Village of Winthrop Harbor’s potential purchase of North Point Marina is not only a good thing but “privatization.” While I applaud the Village of Winthrop Harbor’s efforts to acquire and revitalize North Point Harbor, I would not call it “privatization.”

I respectfully disagree with your assertion that government-

capable and willing to wade through project-delaying red tape in partnership with private entities to encourage

clean up contaminated sites and increase the value of nearby properties and subsequently improve long-term property tax revenues. Further, by leading the process, local municipalities are avoiding costly battles with private developers over projects the community is opposed to.

Efforts like those in Winthrop Harbor to facilitate public/ private partnerships are proving to be an effective approach around the Great Lakes as a way to create longterm growth in a troubled economy.

Greg Weykamp, ASL A, LEED AP President, Edgewater Resources, LLC

owned marinas will inevitably be sold off at a fraction of their cost, when here in Michigan, we have dozens of municipal marinas that were constructed by the government, are fully occupied and are highly profitable. While many older marinas with a large number of smaller 30-foot slips are struggling, marinas that have been renovated to reflect the current market and trend toward larger slips are both more profitable and often have waiting lists.

10 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

EDITOR’S NOTE: We thank you for your comments about Nor th Point Marina.

The editorial, Fate of Government-Built Marinas: Privatization, addresses this quasi-government relationship and draws an analogy to Chicago’s marina management, which is referred to as semi-privatization as distinct from that of a fully privatized marina in the private sector.

Southport Marina in Kenosha, Wis., is one example of a governmentowned marina that was sold at a fraction of its cost.

$9.5 Billion Networking with

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October 2011

Offers vigorous economic and political spport to boaters on the Great Lakes and on the inland waterways from the Mississippi to the Atlantic Coast Advances boaters’ rights, needs and interests on the federal, state and local levels in the face of harsh regulations

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ore than 30 years ago, Fountain Powerboats was launched with the single-minded goal of building the fastest, smoothest, safest,best-handling and most dependable boats on the water.

M

Fountain Powerboats began in what was once a tobacco field in the North Carolina backwater region. Today, their 66-acre site includes a 250,000-squarefoot facility under roof and a modern marina. Each boat that is designed and manufactured is tested in “actualuse” conditions prior to delivery. The company produces almost every Fountain component part in-house.

Under the leadership of John E. Walker, Fountain Powerboats is a productiondriven boat manufacturer offering the highest quality performance boats on

12 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

the market. They continue to be the best performing and fastest boats in the world, reflecting unparalleled quality and craftsmanship within the industry.

True to its racing roots, the company has implemented incentive programs to support offshore racers and professional tournament anglers. In 2011, Fountain was chosen as the Official Boat of Florida’s Emerald Coast Poker Run, “ the largest high-performance boating event in the United States.”

The Fountain line includes sport boats, fishing boats, center console performance boats and express cruisers.

A dealer-qualifications process has been established to ensure high-quality dealerto-consumer relations.

fountainpowerboats.com

38 LIGHTNING The 38 Lightning is an ultra-performance model that has become one of the best-selling boats Fountain has put on the market.

With numerous world and national championships to its name, the 38 delivers an unparalleled combination of performance and speed.

The Lightning series utilizes the legendary pad keel, notched transom, and positive lift hull design. Add staggered engines to move the center of gravity toward the keel, and the 38 takes performance boating to a new level.

Blast through the water at speeds of more than 95 mph with twin Mercury 525s with Bravo I drives, or order twin 700s with NXT1 drives to reach speeds in excess of 115 mph.

For 2012, Fountain has included the newest state-of-the-art products and technology making every new Fountain an overall better product than any boat before (including any of its previous products). Add to that new cockpit interiors, new cabin upholstery, new custom vinyl in the cockpits, and new graphics packages, and you get a boat unlike any other in the world.

Every Fountain is water tested at the company’s “World Powerboats Headquarters” facility in Washington, N.C., prior to delivery. This means the boat is put in the water and run through its paces by Fountain’s own test drivers who will tweak it to ensure it is performance-ready upon reaching you.

LOA Beam Draft Fuel Capacity

38’ 8’6” 35” 180 gal

greatlakesboating.com | 13

LOA 42’ Beam 8’6” Draft w /Drive Down 40” Fuel Capacity 328 gal

42 LIGHTNING Fountain Powerboat’s 42 Lightning is the most widely recognized performance boat in the world. Winning more world and national championships than any other V-bottom in history, it has bested the world speed record eight times with the fastest two-way average of 171.883 mph. It has done more than just win; it has totally dominated race courses over the past two decades.

It all started with Bob Nordskog’s Powerboat Special in the mid-1980s and continued under such famous marquees as Ohio Steel, Ocean Spray, Rio Roses, Pier 57 and Yachts International. The 42 Lightning comes with a staggered engine setup that brings the propellers close together, keeping the center of gravity low down along the keel where it performs the best.

With a pair of Mercury 525 EFIs, the 42 will hit speeds of nearly 90 mph. Install twin 700 Mercurys with NXT1 drives and achieve speeds upwards of 105 mph. For even more speed, bolt in the Mercury 1100s to hit speeds of 130 mph.

Fountain has updated the 42 with an all-new cockpit interior, new cabin appointments, and a few secret “tweaks” to bring better overall performance to the 42 Lightning. New graphics choices and custom high-definition wraps make it easy to define who you are.

The Fountain 42 Lighting is the performance boat of choice for the racecourse and for the everyday boater that simply wants the fastest and best-performing boat on the water.

14 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

LOA 34’ Beam 9’6” Draft

w/Engines Down ( Twin)

31”

Fuel Capacity 300 gal

34 CENTER CONSOLE Big on performance, fishing and speed, the Fountain 34 Center Console, a smaller version of Fountain’s 38 CC, has fast become a preferred vessel of fishermen and center console performance lovers.

Manufactured with hand-laid knitted fiberglass, New Age composite materials, vacuum-bagged hull construction, and custom-blended gel coats, the 34 CC is built for the toughest rough-water applications.

Available in twin- or triple-engine configurations, the 34 Center Console was designed by fishermen for fishermen, giving you the most well thought-out fishing boat on the water. The 34’s hull bottom is descended from performance boats that have literally won hundreds of races and dozens of product-excellence awards.

And if fishing is not your bag, the 34 CC can be built with options that will make your new Fountain one of the hottestlooking, best-performing and fastest center-console highperformance boats in the world. Popular options include custom seating, powder-coated and color-matched aluminum T-tops and hardware, custom-painted graphics, highdefinition wraps, underwater lights and more.

With a cruise speed of 40 mpg, you’ll get a range of more than 380 miles with the standard fuel tank. Attain a top-end speed of nearly 65 mph with twin 300-hp Mercury Verado outboards, or choose the triple-engine configuration to reach eye-watering speeds in excess of 70 mph.

greatlakesboating.com | 15

LOA 48’6” Beam 12’ Draft w/Drives Down 46” Fuel Capacity 555 gal

48 E XPRESS CRUISER For 2012, Fountain Powerboats has reintroduced one of the most eloquent and fastest ultra-performance cruisers in the world: the Fountain 48 Express Cruiser.

With a 12-foot beam and an overall length of 48 feet, 6 inches, this 24,000 pound “luxury penthouse” easily cruises at 50 mph and is capable of speeds reaching 64 mph.

The master stateroom has a raised queen bed flanked by matching couches. The bathroom has a porcelain head, a molded Corian® sink and storage. There’s also a cedar-lined hanging locker and complete entertainment center with flatscreen TV, CD player and DVD player.

The aft guest cabin comes with a double berth, bedside table and a flat-screen TV. The salon boasts two sofas with a table and removable pedestal, matching pleated draperies, low-voltage overhead lighting, and custom cherry wood accents. Nearby is a complete galley with stainless steel sink, full-sized microwave, two electric stovetops, refrigerator, Corian® countertops, and hand-built cabinetry and storage.

With twin 480 Cummins diesels, the 48 reaches speeds in excess of 60 mph and cruises at more than 40 mph. With the triple engine application with 480 Cummins diesels, you can reach a top speed of nearly 65 mph or choose a comfortable 50-mph cruising speed. Three gasoline-powered MerCruiser 525s will allow a cruising speed of 50 mph with a top speed of 81 mph.

fountainpowerboats.com

16 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

Great Lakes Fisher y Commission

A

menace lurks beneath the surface of the Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois rivers. They weigh as much

as 110 pounds, consume 5 to 20 percent of their own body weight daily, rob native fish of their food source and have been known to leap from the water and assault unsuspecting boaters. Their notoriety grows along with their appearances in the headlines. So, who are these pesky fish drawing so much attention? The Asian carp.

Despite their current status as the most maligned and unwelcome of aquatic invasive species, the Asian carp may provide society with more than a headache. Their presence may offer unexpected benefits.

ASSESSING

A THREAT

According to fact sheets from the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee, flooding allowed Asian carp to escape into the Mississippi River system and migrate to the Missouri and Illinois rivers after the species was imported from Southeast Asia to the southern United States to help aquaculture and wastewater treatment facilities keep retention ponds clean.

Additional entryways include through live bait and live transport by retail food wholesalers to markets within the Great Lakes basin.

Rumors swirl that fi sh have been found north of electric barriers used to stop their movement into the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal and ultimately the Great Lakes.

While the fish are moving north, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has yet to discover any in the Chicago Area Waterways. The IDNR has spent more than 4,000 hours monitoring them over the past year, looking for reproducing populations,

Asian Carp

DILEMMA

By Jenifer Fischer

and says such a scenario does not currently exist. The closest they’ve documented them is in the Marseilles Pool of the Illinois River, approximately 50 miles downstream from the barriers.

The fear is that the Asian carp will gain access to Lake Michigan and undermine the food web by feeding on plankton native species rely on for nourishment. They would

18 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

wreak devastation on the Great Lakes ecosystem and fishing

In July of this year the ACRCC had three consecutive days

industry. They even poses a safety threat to those recreating

of positive environmental DNA samples of silver Asian carp

on the waters. Skittish and easily startled by boat engines,

in Illinois’ Lake Calumet and surrounding areas. The findings

the fi sh have been known to leap from the water and impart

triggered what the organization calls a level one rapid

damage on vessels and humans. Even if the fish could not

response, which, according to the IDNR, involved adding

thrive in the Great Lakes themselves—opinions are mixed—it

commercial fishing crews as well as additional electrofishing

is believed the fish would use them to gain access to more

boats, larger sweeping nets, called seines, and additional

hospitable waterways. Wherever they spread, it is believed

sampling gear to the area during an intensive four-day

they could wipe out fisheries on a massive scale.

fishing period.

“The Great Lakes Boating Federation views the Asian carp

“We came up with no fish,” said Todd Main, Illinois Coastal

as a wake up call to save and conserve the Great Lakes not

Management Program Manager and Senior Policy Advisor

only for the 4.3 million boaters and fisherman who enjoy them,

for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. “If they are

but also for the millions of citizens living along their shores,”

present, they are there in very, very, very low numbers.”

said F. Ned Dikmen, chairman of the Great Lakes Boating Federation. “These creatures will create havoc for motorized recreational vessels and stand to devastate sportfishing. They must be stopped.”

Agencies including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, all eight Great Lakes States and others are working together as part of the Obama administration’s Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Committee

While the exact population in the infested areas is unknown at this time, studies are being conducted to get a handle on the numbers. In 2010, the IDNR removed approximately 120,000 to 130,000 pounds of Asian carp from the northern waterways.

Regardless of existing evidence and efforts, the many entities involved are closely looking at what more can be done.

EXPLORING

AN OPPORTUNITY

(ACRCC), formed in 2009. In 2010, the administration

The Illinois River is connected to the Great Lakes by the

announced the Asian Carp Control Strategy Framework,

manmade Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal, which has been

which outlines the long- and short-term strategies for dealing

called a pathway of great concern for Asian carp migration.

with the population, including monitoring and netting, and

Through these waterways, the fish could enter Lake Michigan

identifying and blocking pathways to the Great Lakes.

and the Great Lakes.

Michigan Sea Grant/Dan O’Keefe

greatlakesboating.com | 19

Current strategies for combating Asian carp include

Alliance for the Great Lakes is one of the groups leading

aggressive commercial fi shing and electric barriers. These

the charge for hydrologic separation, the severing of the

methods, according to Main, are the short-term strategy for

Mississippi River Basin from the Great Lakes Basin through

the next fi ve to 10 years. The objective is to take them out of

the Chicago Area Waterways.

areas where they are already established and keep knocking them back down the river.

“That was a big mistake to mess with Mother Nature and that process,” said Jared Teutsch, a water policy advocate for

The captured fi sh are being converted into fi shmeal and

Alliance for the Great Lakes, of the 20th century reversal. “The

fertilizer through two processors in Illinois. Asian carp are

only sure, 100 percent way of keeping the carp out and others

deemed a clean, fi sh fi t for human consumption. Some

from getting in is some sort of physical separation.”

consider them a delicacy, which is why commercial fisherman harvest them and send them to China. Some U.S. restaurants have even started to serve them. The long-term strategy is to process them into a protein source used for human consumption, which would reduce the population to lower levels. In August, the IDNR announced pilot programs including an Asian carp food-handling training program, as well as another that will study marketing the invasive species.

Seeking a more immediate solution, five Great Lakes states— Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin— are suing Illinois in federal court for the permanent closure of two Chicago-area shipping locks separating the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds. It is thought that such action would stop the carp. At press time, nothing had come of the litigation.

Teutsch explained that his organization sees the Asian carp as the “canary in the coal mine,” and that this measure could prevent it and several others from reaching the Great Lakes.

Returning the river to its original flow into Lake Michigan would not only create a physical separation between the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal and the Illinois River thereby eliminating a means for the Asian carp and other invasive species to travel to Lake Michigan, it could also provide additional environmental and economic benefits.

Currently the Great Lakes Commission and the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative are leading up a joint initiative known as “Envisioning a Chicago Area Waterway System for the 21st Century,” which “will assess modernization and improvements to the Waterway System in a way that enhances commercial, recreational and environmental benefi ts, while preventing the transfer of

THE

LONG -TERM STRATEGY

IS TO PROCESS THEM INTO A PROTEIN SOURCE USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION, WHICH WOULD REDUCE THE POPULATION TO LOWER LEVELS.

“I don’t think it’s a sound strategy,” Main said. “It sounds easy, but there are other ways for them to get into the Great Lakes.”

damaging invasive species.” Under this initiative, hydrologic separation is being examined.

“I think what we’re looking at, and we’ve been enthusiastically following the Great Lakes Commission and Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities joint study on reinventing the Chicago Area Waterways, is a way to reinvigorate and revitalize the area economically,” Teutsch said.

In addition, the plan provides an opportunity to update

Main explained that with only a 2-foot difference between the

stormwater management practices, improve water quality

river and the tops of the locks, a heavy rainstorm causing the

and improve the transportation corridors for trucking, trains,

river to swell would be enough to carry the fish over the lock

shipping and other commodity traffic.

and into the river.

The current cost of such an undertaking is unknown, but

“It’s an easy answer and it makes people feel better, but it

estimated to be in the billions. The joint initiative is scheduled

doesn’t solve the problem,” he added.

to release its study in December 2011 along with some cost

Another solution rapidly gaining attention is un-reversing the Chicago River. In 1900, the river was reversed to fl ow from Lake Michigan into the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal as a means of carrying sewage away from Lake Michigan and the

analysis. The Stop Asian Carp Act of 2011, which would mandate the Army Corps of Engineers move its timeline from five years to 18 months, resides with the House (H.R. 892) and Senate (S.471).

city’s water supply. Chicago’s former Mayor Richard Daley

In the meantime, it would seem that in its effort to infiltrate

has publicly supported the idea, and the U.S. Army Corps of

the Great Lakes, the Asian carp has forced a population to

Engineers is examining the possibility; however the study is

determine more than a resolution that prevents their spread

estimated to take fi ve years, which many believe is too long

but also find meaningful ways to deal with their presence.

given the proximity of the Asian carp to the Great Lakes.

20 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

GENERATOR

vs.

INVERTER THE ULTIMATE GRUDGE MATCH

By Don Wilson

W

hen talking about mobile power solutions while

engine components, shortening your generator engine’s life.

attending mobile power-esque parties (oh, yeah,

Lastly, generators are heavy, don’t surge well and are often

we’re a lively bunch), someone always tries to

oversized to meet load demands. Larger, heavier generators

make the correlation between an inverter and a generator.

are used to prevent problems during a large in-rush of

When chatting with the average person, even I am guilty of

electrical demand (like an electric motor).

explaining an inverter as “a generator that uses the battery as its fuel tank.” This is a bit inaccurate and quite misleading since they have distinctive roles and benefits.

BUT

Inverters are also AC power supplies, but they use stored DC electrical energy in a battery, or battery bank. They use

WHICH IS BETTER?

In this corner…THE HEAVYWEIGHT

In this corner…THE LIGHTWEIGHT INVERTER!

high-speed electrical switches and transformers to modify

GENERATOR!

Generators are AC power supplies that use fossil fuels as their main source of consumptive energy. In other words, they use fuel such as diesel, propane, gasoline to run an engine.

That engine spins a rotating shaft, which uses magnets and

the DC to AC, and then change the voltage to create 120V. On the plus side, inverters are extremely efficient compared with generators, and they only consume DC power in direct relation to the amount of power they put out. Another major benefit is that they are virtually silent compared to generators.

electrical windings to create electrical AC current. Generators

However, inverters are not a perfect source since their

excel at one thing: creating lots of kilowatt hours of electrical

energy supplies (batteries) are permanently mounted, hard

power using a relatively lightweight and easily acquired

to replenish and limited. This means that short-term heavy

energy source (fuel).

loads, such as a microwave, or long-term lighter loads, such

A major drawback of a generator is they can be terribly inefficient and waste a lot of fuel if they are not used at full, or at least heavy, load for a long time period. Generators can

as an entertainment center, are good matches for an inverter with the right battery bank. Lastly, inverters are comparatively lightweight compared to generators.

unnecessarily pollute the environment for a small benefit. For

Also, for their weight, inverters tend to surge well—typically

example, if you have a 7kW generator powering your 700W TV/

twice their rated constant power output—compared with their

DVD/surround system, you waste fuel running that big engine

fuel-based nemesis.

for little benefit. On the other end of the spectrum, if you start your generator for the 10 minutes it takes to microwave last

AND

night’s leftovers, the generator barely gets lukewarm before

Everybody loves a winner. However, in the classic generator/

you shut it down. This can cause carbon buildup on the critical

inverter battle, there is no clear-cut champ. I know, I

22 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

THE WINNER IS?

know, where’s the chair-slapping, pile-driving finale that conclusively denotes the winner?

WAIT! THERE’S

NO TIE IN A GRUDGE MATCH!

Ultimately, your system becomes the winner if you do it right.

Sure, with a significant investment in solar panels, an inverter

Generators are available from the small 1,000W gas/electric to

could easily take the place of a generator. This would require

15kW diesels. Sure, they get bigger, but the huge units are part

a huge initial cost, but the long-term cost of ownership would

of a completely different discussion. Inverters come from 100W

be less with a solar/battery/inverter system than a generator.

“pocket” inverters to 600W in the portable scope, and 600W to

When available, sunshine is free, but unlike fossil fuels, it can’t

3,000W in hard-wired configurations. With some models you

be purchased from a friendly neighborhood convenience store.

can even stack similar inverters to get up to 6,000W. If you do your homework right, including a lot of math and planning, you

Personally, I like the win-win scenario that favors both options in their respective corners of strength. Use the inverter to power anything it can, minus the monster loads such as air

can partner a good inverter with a small generator and reap the benefits of a lightweight, highly efficient, usable system that make you, your chassis and Mother Earth happy.

conditioners. Then, when the batteries are depleted or you need the monster loads to turn on, run that macho generator

EVERYBODY WINS!

for a long time (at least an hour) to power the heavier loads.

Tech Doctor Don Wilson has worked in

Let the battery charger then give the inverter its efficient

technical capacities in the automotive,

power once you are ready to shut the generator down. This

RV and marine fields and for the military

one-two punch allows the most efficient fuel usage—only

since 1989 and has extensive experience in designing and troubleshooting onboard

turning to a pollutant when your fuel is most effective—fewer noisy generator runs so you can enjoy your environment more and greater cost efficiency since you will use less fuel for the same used kilowatt hours.

electrical systems. A former customer service manager dealing with electronic issues, Wilson currently serves as a technical instructor for the RV industry’s RVIA Trouble Shooter Clinics and is a full-time sales application specialist for Xantrex Technology USA Inc.

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greatlakesboating.com | 23

BOATING AT YOUR DOORSTEP

By Kim Seitz

I

t takes many businesses, services and organizations to make boating accessible to and enjoyable for the masses. For decades, West Marine has been one such entity, delivering the many products these recreational mariners need to support their time on the water. If you are unfamiliar with all West Marine offers, it’s time you get to know them—a company of boaters helping boaters.

IT

STARTED WITH ROPE

What has become the world’s largest boating supply retailer

supply stores in those days were usually dark, disorganized

started modestly enough in a garage in Sunnyvale, Calif.

places staffed by a couple of salty, but indifferent clerks who

Randy Repass, who was disappointed with his job at a Silicon

preferred swapping sea stories with one another to helping

Valley technology firm, turned to his love of boating for relief

customers find what they came in to buy.”

from the cold, impersonal nature of the high-tech industry.

In 1968 he began selling nylon rope by mail order under the name West Coast Ropes. Occasionally, adventuresome customers would even drop by to pick up their orders in person.

Repass also saw an opportunity to improve the way people shopped for boating supplies. According to Repass, he was frustrated by the experience of shopping in local chandleries for the parts he needed to outfit his modest daysailer. “Boat

24 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

Repass’ dissatisfaction led him to open the first West Coast Ropes store in Palo Alto, Calif., in 1975. Besides carrying the quality rope the business was built on, the original store stocked a small selection of basic boat supplies including anchors and fenders. Though the selection was meager at first, the service was outstanding.

As more and more customers discovered the store, they asked for a wider variety of products: antifouling paint,

This December, the company plans to open a Fort Lauderdale, Fla., location with 50,000 square feet—six times the size of an average West Marine store. West Marine’s Boating Superstore in Fort Lauderdale will be by far the largest of any of West Marine’s existing store locations across the U.S. and Canada.

According to West Marine CEO, Geoff Eisenberg, “Fort Lauderdale is the yachting capital of the world, so we’ve designed this store to meet the needs of this unique and dynamic market. We believe it will be the world’s largest and, we hope, the most exciting store that boaters have ever seen.”

To achieve that goal, West Marine’s new Fort Lauderdale cleaners, electronics, safety equipment, foul weather gear

Superstore will have many unique features designed to bring

and the like. The staff listened and the product line grew. In

the boating experience to life. For example, a comprehensive

1977, the company acquired some of the assets of Boston-

assortment of marine electronics and audio systems will be

based West Products, a well-known mail-order business, and

displayed in a structure designed to evoke the experience of

changed its name from West Coast Ropes to West Marine

being on the flying bridge of a multi-million dollar megayacht.

Products to reflect its expanding selection.

Displays throughout the store will enable customers to be hands-on, with products ranging from sail-furling devices

FROM

PRINT TO BLUEPRINTS

To better represent West Marine’s growing product line, it was decided to present the company’s entire selection in one comprehensive, easy-to-reference volume. In 1987, the

to water-system pumps. And a school of billfish will “swim” overhead in the new store’s huge fishing tackle area.

THINKING

FORWARD, GIVING BACK

company introduced its first Master Catalog—330 black-and-

Preserving our waters is a passion for West Marine. The

white pages packed with boating gear. Since then, the catalog

company offers a large variety of environmentally friendly

has tripled in size and features full color photos of thousands

products and launched Pure Oceans, its own line of green

of additional products, making it the biggest in the industry.

products. These products were designed as an alternative to products with traditional chemicals. Pure Oceans products

In the fall of 1991, West Marine opened its first stores on the

are safer for the user and the environment.

East Coast in Miami and Annapolis. More stores followed in Florida, Virginia, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island

West Marine recently announced the launch of its third annual

and Massachusetts. Then, in 1993, the company went public

Green Product of the Year contest, a campaign to encourage

under the symbol WMAR on the NASDAQ exchange.

Today, West Marine has more than 320 stores in 38 states, Puerto Rico and Canada and three franchised stores located in Turkey. The company now carries more than 60,000 products, ranging from the rope that started it all, to the latest in marine electronics. In addition to its retail stores and Port Supply wholesale divisions, the company serves boaters in more than 150 countries worldwide through its mail order and Internet divisions.

West Marine opened three new flagship stores in 2011— Woburn, Mass.; St. Petersburg, Fla., and North Palm Beach, Fla.—and in 2012 another flagship store will open in Honolulu, Hawaii. West Marine began opening fl agship stores as a convenience to its customers. These stores are more than 25,000 square feet, as opposed to the 7,000 to 8,000 square feet in standard stores, and can have as much as three times the assortment of standard stores, something the company says provides customers with everything they need for a great day out on the water.

greatlakesboating.com | 25

green product development throughout the marine industry.

the winner. The Green Product of the Year will be announced

Entry has been extended to include not only the entire United

and the award of $10,000 will be presented to the designated

States, but also the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and

Official Winner at the 2012 Miami International Boat Show.

Canada, excluding Quebec. The competition, which is free and open to individuals, manufacturers, distributors and/or inventors of boating products, is an important component of West Marine’s BlueFuture™ initiative to help create a sustainable future for the planet.

Big companies and first-time inventors alike are invited to submit their green boating and fishing products. Entries will

Also, since 1994 West Marine has awarded more than $4.5 million in Marine Conservation Grants to help local marinebased groups that work towards conservation, habitat restoration, and sustainable fisheries.

In addition to serving millions of boaters, West Marine employs about 4,500 associates, depending on the season.

be judged on effectiveness, environmental impact, degree of

“From salespeople to top-level management, our associates

innovation, verification claims and their economical viability.

are intimately familiar with the boating needs of our customers,”

Last year’s winner was a retired fisherman from Alaska who

says founder, Randy Repass. “We believe that it’s just as

created a simple, effective, and low-cost way to reduce fish

important to offer knowledgeable service and support as it is

mortality rates.

to offer top-flight products.”

“West Marine strives to be a leader in sustainability. We

The company says overall, our goal is quite simple, “We hope

hope to inspire the marine industry to create environmentally

to provide our customers with the broadest and best selection

friendly products to preserve and protect the oceans and

of boating gear, accessories and apparel they’ve ever seen

waterways that we all enjoy,” said Eisenberg in a press release.

and provide outstanding customer service, so that every

A panel of esteemed judges including West Marine executives and leaders from across the industry and academia will select

26 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

customer regards us as an exceptional company and rewards us with their business. If we don’t have an answer or product, we’ll get it for you.”

ONSHORE CONCERNS

By Jenifer Fischer

A

s society seeks ways to produce alternative energy and create jobs, some new formations have emerged from the world’s waterways—offshore wind turbines.

These towering, bladed entities harvest wind from oceans and seas and churn it into electricity, and since 1990 their presence has steadily increased globally. Now the race is on to bring them to U.S. waters—even the Great Lakes.

Among several groups associated with proposed offshore wind energy projects around the United States and Great Lakes, the Lake Erie Energy Development Co., known as LEEDCo, hopes to be fi rst in the water. In a pilot project, the

“The wind is better around the Great Lakes,” said

nonprofit public-private enterprise plans to install five to seven

John Hummer, a project manager for the Great Lakes

GE 4.1 MW direct drive turbines approximately seven to 10

Commission. “That’s where you get more energy produced

miles northwest of Cleveland. After evaluating the initial run,

per turbine, and another benefi t is that they are essentially

LEEDCo would expand the development.

out of sight. “

Considering the project’s unprecedented nature,

Hummer, who works with GLC’s Great Lakes Wind

environmentalists, citizens, business owners and boaters

Collaborative, a multi-sector entity whose purpose is to

alike harbor some concerns. They want to understand why

facilitate the sustainable development of wind power in the

and how, as well as the costs and benefits. It all began when

binational Great Lakes, called the industry a new opportunity

the Cleveland Foundation, the oldest and second largest

for the Great Lakes region to produce a significant amount of

community foundation in the country, began seeking a

its electricity from offshore wind as opposed to conventional

solution to save a troubled region.

sources such as burning coal and nuclear power.

WIND

“There’s substantial evidence that offshore wind creates

FROM THE WATERS

In 2004, recognizing Cleveland’s massive population decrease—by half since 1950—and a statewide job loss, the Cleveland Foundation embarked on a global economic

significant jobs,” Wagner said. “In Europe in 2010 alone, they had about 40,000 jobs on the books despite the fact that the industry is emerging and has yet to fully mature.”

development mission to determine what new industry might

Hummer echoed this claim and cited the need for jobs in the

help revive the area.

supply chain, construction, operating and maintenance of

“Offshore wind,” says LEEDCo’s president, Lorry Wagner, “was clearly identified as one piece of the puzzle that could really thrive in this region.”

In addition to being a good match for the population’s manufacturing, industrial, engineering and maritime skills, offshore wind was found to be abundant on Lake Erie.

28 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

the offshore turbines. “In general, the wind industry will be a boost to the Great Lakes region as it continues to grow,” he said.

Additionally, it is thought that the turbines will become tourist attractions as they have in Europe where people not only explore them on their own boats but also pay for guided tours.

iStockPhoto.com/Sergiy Serdyuk

ADDRESSING

THE UNKNOWN

As more various Great Lakes organizations announce additional offshore wind farm projects and the buzz grows, more questions arise from those impacted.

Among those concerned parties fall the recreational boaters and fishermen who fear the turbines’ placement and proximity will limit their access to Great Lakes waters, harm fi sh populations, pose safety threats, destroy the view and create noise pollution.

“There’s a long list of things that need to be examined,” said Ken Alvey, president of the Lake Erie Marine Trades Association. “The way it appears, they are going through a process of seeking input and consensus. There are many questions that need to be addressed and a lot of input that needs to be thought out carefully.”

Perhaps the first questions that come to mind involve how navigable the waters will be once the turbines are present.

“We have correspondence with the Coast Guard, and it’s clear they have no intention of doing that,” Wagner, a boater himself, said of exclusion zone rumors.

He stated that the pilot project turbines will be about 1,000 meters apart unlike some European farms, which were placed based on land spacing and have been too close from a windproduction point of view. Wagner added that future turbines

By 2006, Cayahoga County became involved and created a

will be even farther apart and addressed false claims that

task force to gather community input and determine technical

17,000 turbines could be placed in Lake Erie if every square

viability. Once a feasibility study conducted in spring 2009

foot was used. The speculation was based on a fi gure given

concluded there were no red flags and the plan was a viable

by the Department of Energy on the theoretical potential

economic proposition and environmentally compatible, a

of the lake, a fi gure Wagner said fails to account for all

business entity was formed to move the process forward—

the studies being conducted and what the market can

LEEDCo was born.

realistically bear.

LEEDCo brought together the four counties of Cayahoga,

“To put it into perspective, 5,000 megawatts would provide

Lorain, Ashtaula and Lake, along with the City of Cleveland,

enough power to power every residential home in virtually

the Cleveland Foundation and NorTech Energy Enterprise

every medium and big city in the state of Ohio. That’s a

to create a public-private partnership with which to move

lot of power,” he explained. “So, if you look at the fact that

forward with the environmental, permitting and leasing

Lake Erie has 46 gigawatts of potential and we’re only

aspects as well as supply-chain engagement and research.

talking about 5 gigawatts of that being utilized, it puts it

For the pilot project, which is being funded by private equity,

into perspective in terms of how much of the lake we’re

electricity sales, tax credits, grants, and renewable energy

realistically talking about—and not to mention that as turbine

credit sales, General Electric was chosen as the preferred

sizes increase and improve, less turbines will be required for

turbine partner and developer Freshwater Wind was selected

the same amount of power. “

to finance and build.

Studies have shown that with a placement seven miles from “Our goal is to be the first in the Great Lakes,” Wagner said.

shore, the turbines will appear about the size of a dime and will

“Currently, we do have a lead, but on the other hand, once

be visible about two-thirds of the time, depending on weather.

you start looking at permitting time and financing, one or two

Future projects will likely be 10 to 15 miles out and should

years doesn’t mean a whole lot. It is very possible that by the

appear half that size and be visible less than half the time.

time everything gets put in place and is ready to go, Canada, Michigan, New York or Wisconsin could be in a position to

As for the noise, Wagner said the proposed turbines are direct

execute their program.”

drive and will not have gear boxes, which means they will

greatlakesboating.com | 29

sound something like a refrigerator and of a similar level; from a

went out of business, the reclamation of those mines often

few hundred yards away, they will not be audible to human ears.

was left to the states or EPA to clean up. They should make

“One potential impact is to the fish and aquatic wildlife,” said the Great Lakes Wind Collaborative’s John Hummer. “The noise from pile driving the turbines into the surface of the lake could have an impact on their auditory tissues and could

sure, before any of these wind turbines go in, that there is enough money to remove them in the event that the power company fails or goes out of business.”

As for an exit strategy, all wind projects in Ohio are required

cause fish to become startled. And they are also sensitive to

to have a de-installation plan and proof of financial ability to

electromagnetic fields, which can cause avoidance attraction

carry out the plan.

or avoidance responses or possible disorientations.”

Wagner said the initial project is small so future impacts may

Wagner said that in Europe the conclusion has been that wind

be assessed while making a minimal environmental impact.

farms have neither helped nor hindered fi sh populations;

The permit requires post-construction monitoring to gather

however, they have become a destination for fish due to the

real data from an operational wind farm before any expansion

reef effect they create. Some countries place cleats on the

decisions are made.

turbines to encourage boaters to tie up rather than anchor and disturb the foundation and cables below, a possibility Wagner said is being explored.

“It’s clear that when you provide fi sh with a habitat, they

“We’re taking what we know from around the world, but clearly this is a different environment and we have to make sure we’re doing it right here,” explained Wagner.

will gravitate toward that habitat and there’s no suggestion

MAKING

from around the world—and there have been well over 1,000

At present, many of the studies—avian and bat, fi shery,

turbines put in—that those fears have any substance,”

historic preservation, ice and geophysical—necessary

he said.

for permit application have been conducted. The Ohio

Alvey also commented on the turbines’ potential for attracting fi sh and expressed concern that sport fi sherman will be assured access to them.

PREPARATIONS

Department of Natural Resources’ Offi ce of Coastal Management, has graded every square mile of Lake Erie for offshore wind suitability, taking into consideration factors such as commercial and sport fishing, bird and fish habitat,

And, if there is access, many wonder if they’ll find themselves

lakebed substrates, navigable waterways, utilities and

sailing on tainted waters. Due to Lake Erie’s history as an

shipwrecks, among others. The ODNR Offi ce of Coastal

industrial dumping ground, many fear the turbines will churn

Management’s Wind Turbine Placement Favorability Analysis

up toxins and debris. As part of the permitting process,

map may be viewed at http://ohiodnr.com/coastal.

samples will be removed from the lake bottom where turbines will be placed. LEEDCo would be required to return the sediment regardless of the composition’s cleanliness. If mercury is discovered, a decision must be made regarding how to mitigate it.

An eight-state agreement will not be required to move forward with the project. Each state’s approval process varies. Each owns the lake bottom within its borders and need not seek permission from the others to place turbines in the waters. The Army Corps of Engineers is the federal permitting agency that

“Here’s another thing,” Alvey said. “We went through a cycle

shepherds the projects through the approximately 25 agencies

where mining was favorable, but once the coal companies

that must provide input and approval, including the Fish and

General Electric/cour tesy of LEEDCo

Wildlife Service, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Defense.

Wagner estimated the construction process’ onset remained about two years out. Upon commencement, depending on variables such as weather, construction would take about four to six months.

In the process, Wagner said LEEDCo has welcomed questions and input and encourages concerned and curious parties to visit its website—www.leedco.org—and view the Q&A, send an email or call them.

“I think it’s important for boaters to realize that we’re just as concerned about the quality of the lake as anybody,” Wagner said. “We are trying to build an industry that is going to be positive for the region, so our interest is doing right.”

30 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

The project’s task force has held 63 community meetings to gather input, and LEEDCo has conducted nearly as many in the past year and a half, according to Wagner, who says the mission has always been to work with the public, businesses General Electric/cour tesy of LEEDCo

and the state and the regulators to make sure the plans make sense and people are included in the discussion about how to move forward.

“Offshore wind has many issues to be grappled with, and it’s a very interesting and exciting area that we’re moving into,” said Hummer, whose organization published and distributed an online toolkit called Best Practices for Sustainable Wind Energy Development in the Great Lakes.

“I think the most important thing is to get all the players to the table talking about the issues and trying to work them out well in advance.”

WEIGHING

IN

Many boating groups are waiting to form official opinions on the project, but they seem to agree that a thorough and open dialogue take place.

“We don’t have a formal position at this point, but we do have concerns,” said Thom Dammrich, president of the National Marine Manufacturers Association. “We’re not necessarily opposed to alternative sources of energy, but we need to do it smartly.”

The NMMA plans to discuss the issue at its October board meeting. “We are concerned about access to the water. We’re

very knowledgeable when answering questions and addressing issues such as anchoring.”

concerned about the noise they create. We’re concerned

Latina said he still wants to know more about how exactly the

about the potential blight on the water depending on where

turbines work and thought that issues such as lighting still

they are located. We are all for alternative sources of energy

need to be addressed

and we are all for going green, but I think there are concerns with wind turbines out on the lake that need to be addressed,” said Dammrich.

“I thought it was very informative. They seem to have all their info together. All the questions asked were answered very well. I actually think it will be a very good thing, if it

Alvey said the boaters in his community are keeping a

happens,” said Warren Dempster, another recreational boater

watchful eye on what this project means to them. “Nobody

in attendance. “I don’t think it will affect the boaters a whole

quite understands it yet, and whatever happens will be

lot. The way it was presented, it seems like it could benefi t

precedent-setting. There are more chances it will be negative

the fishermen.”

than positive for the boating community.”

Dempster didn’t see a lot of opposition from others in the

He added, “It can’t just be a local issue. It has to be a national

group and said everyone seemed satisfied with the way the

issue to gain some traction. Quite often we find ourselves with

questions were answered. He hoped others would attend

blind spots or fail to take appropriate action as a recreational

future meetings.

community and allow things to pop up haphazardly. And that blind spot leads to future user conflicts. This is one where you can weigh in early, and I would count on the manufacturers and retailers all the way down the pipeline to the boating organizations to weigh in with one voice.”

In August, several dozen Cleveland-area boaters attended a LEEDCo meeting aimed specifically at their population.

With time left before any proposed wind turbine developments can come to fruition, proceeding with great caution and research seems to be the consensus.

“We need to ask ourselves if we want to take the chance of harming a $9.5 billion recreational boating industry on the Great Lakes in addition to a $7 million sport-fishing industry,” F. Ned Dikmen, chairman of the Great Lakes Boating

“It was very informative and well-received,” said Cleveland-

Federation, urged. “These turbines will be in boaters’ faces.

area boater Joe Latina, who attended. “[LEEDCo] seemed

Why place them where the cities and the boaters are?”

greatlakesboating.com | 31

WHEN VISIBILITY IS LIMITED

By Mike Baron U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division

I

n just minutes, fog, heavy rain and even snow can reduce

through preventive action that includes slowing to a safe

visibility on the water to just a few yards, leaving boaters

speed, energizing your navigation lights, and sounding the

confused as to their position and what obstructions may

appropriate signals for your vessel type, as required by

be around them. At sunset, recognizable shoreline features

the Navigation Rules, available online through the Coast

disappear, often replaced by unfamiliar and confusing lights

Guard Navigation Center at www.navcen.uscg.gov. It is also

that leave many boaters disoriented and unsure how to get

important to post responsible lookouts who will use all of

safely home. At night, depth perception and color recognition

their senses—sight, sound, even smell—to determine what

are impaired. Other boats may be operating without required

lies ahead in time to avoid an accident. A lookout should

navigation lights, in violation of federal law requiring

scan 360 degrees, as accidents at night can occur when a

navigation lights from sunset to sunrise and during periods of

vessel is overtaken from behind.

restricted visibility. Without lights they can be very difficult to see in the water.

Illustrations and descriptions of the specifi c lighting requirements for every type of watercraft are provided in

Operating a boat when visibility is restricted raises the

the Navigation Rules, which should be your primary source

risk of hitting fixed objects in the water and colliding with

of information. Briefl y speaking, however, these are the

other boats. That is why it is prudent to lessen your risk

navigation lights required for recreational vessels:

32 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

At night, navigation lights help vessel operators identify each other’s position, both at anchor and underway, and are required by law. Refer to your Rules of Navigation manual or to A Boater’s Guide to Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats and Safety Tips for guidelines on appropriate display.

SIDELIGHTS: These red and green lights are visible to another vessel approaching from the side or head-on.

BOATING IN FOG

The red light indicates a vessel’s port (left) side; the green

Fog can develop very quickly and increases collision

indicates a vessel’s starboard (right) side. These lights

risks. In fog, other boaters need to hear you if they

are also referred to as combination lights when displayed

can’t see you. If you see fog moving in, do the following

on a vessel’s bow or, in the case of sailboat, when on top

before it seriously reduces your visibility:

of the mast.

STERN LIGHT: This white light can be seen from behind or nearly behind the vessel.

• Fix your position on a chart, or mark it on an electronic plotter.

• Reduce your speed to the point where you can

MASTHEAD LIGHT: This white light shines forward and

stop your vessel in half the distance you can

to both sides and is required on all power-driven vessels.

actually see.

Since a masthead light must be displayed by all vessels when under engine power, the absence of this light indicates a sailboat under sail.

ALL-ROUND WHITE LIGHT: On power-driven vessels

• Turn on your navigation lights.

• Instruct any passengers to help you keep watch— by sight, sound, and smell—preferably in the bow.

less than 39.4 feet in length, this light may be used to

• Sound one prolonged blast on your horn (4–6

combine a masthead light and stern light into a single

seconds) every two minutes while underway

white light visible to vessels from any direction. This

and making way, and sound two prolonged

light also serves as an anchor light when sidelights

blasts every two minutes when underway and

are extinguished.

stopped. Continue until the fog lifts and visibility

Remember that displaying the proper navigation lights

significantly improves.

at night and during periods of restricted visibility is

If you decide to anchor your vessel and shut off the

only half of the issue. You must also be able to identify

engine, the sound signals change. While you are at

and interpret the navigation lights on other boats in

anchor you must rapidly ring your bell for five seconds at

the vicinity. This can help determine if you are in an

intervals of less than one minute. This lets other vessels

overtaking, meeting or crossing situation.

know where you are and your status.

greatlakesboating.com | 33

Fog can easily obscure rocky outcroppings and small boats. Use a horn, bell or whistle to let others know where you are.

After dark, a configuration of lights generally replaces the

Power Squadrons® or state boating authority and educate

painted color patterns of Aids to Navigation—the buoys and

yourself on best practices for boating at night. Your seamanship

beacons that mark safe water and hidden dangers and tell

skills and good conduct on the water will help alleviate the

boaters their position in relation to land. You must be able to

stress and ensure that you, your passengers and your vessel

identify these navigation aids to help determine your position

return safely to your mooring.

and stay out of dangerous situations. To get an accurate position, you will need to use a nautical chart. The chart will show you the position of the Aids to Navigation, their light characteristics and what landmarks you may be able to see and identify once the sun goes down.

In addition to navigation lights, the Navigation Rules require all vessels to carry sound-producing devices for use during meeting, crossing and overtaking situations. Sound signals are also required during periods of reduced visibility to alert nearby boaters of your relative position and the your vessel’s status; for example, a power-driven vessel underway and making way is required to sound one prolonged blast at intervals not to exceed two minutes.

Is it easy to get lost or disoriented when visibility is limited? It is. Things look very different at night, which can be stressful for inexperienced boat operators. Expect the unexpected.

Practice good risk assessment when deciding whether to boat in the dark. Make sure your required safety equipment including visual distress signals, is on board and that everyone is wearing a life jacket. Take a boating course through your local Coast Guard Auxiliary, United States

34 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

These sound signals come into play during periods of reduced visibility.

At night familiar landmarks and shoreline features disappear and are replaced by a confusing array of lights.

CRUISING IN THE DARK Evening romantic? Early morning angler? Before heading

A GPS can’t tell you what obstructions lie just beneath the

out, be sure to check the weather forecast—either from

water’s surface or between you and your destination.

local media or your marine VHF-FM radio weather channel.

Statewide weather forecasts and warnings are available from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) at www.noaa.gov, which also lists local National Weather Service contacts. Besides checking for any incoming storms, consider the phases of the moon and the amount of cloud cover, both of which can affect your visibility in the dark.

Practice risk assessment. Is it a high-traffic holiday weekend?

Is there a full moon?

Have a clear idea of where you want to go and plot a course before leaving the dock. Study the route for water depth, landmarks, navigation aids and any hazards, then mark your progress on your chart as you go. Practicing these basic rules of navigation will lessen your risk of becoming

Prior to leaving the dock, make sure that your navigation lights are “energized and burning brightly,” as specified by the Navigation Rules, and make sure you have extra light bulbs and fuses aboard. A Boater’s Guide to Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats and Safety Tips illustrates appropriate vessel lighting and may be found online at www.uscgboating. org/regulations/federal_requirements_brochure.aspx.

In addition to turning on navigation lights, eliminate all white lights on board. White lights can affect your night vision and reduce your ability to see other vessels and objects in or on the water. Consider replacing them with red lights, which will not affect your night vision. Set your instrument panel dimmer switch to the lowest readable setting.

disoriented, getting lost or running aground. Also make a

Do a marine VHF-FM radio check with a marina, another boat

habit of fi ling a fl oat plan with a relative or friend who

or a towing company to make sure it is working properly.

can make the appropriate notifi cations if you fail to return

As with every excursion, make sure you also have a full fuel

as scheduled.

tank before heading out. You never want to run out of fuel,

In addition to having current charts onboard, use your

especially not in the dark.

radar and GPS, if so equipped. But don’t rely on GPS alone.

Finally, minimize distractions. While underway in restricted

Operating in or near areas of restricted visibility raises the risk

visibility, improve your abilities as a lookout by turning

of allisions, in which a moving vessel strikes a fi xed object,

down music and TVs and asking passengers to reduce

and collisions, in which vessels underway strike each other.

conversation levels.

greatlakesboating.com | 35

Great Lakes

MARITIME EXHIBIT EXAMINES PARANORMAL The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay, Wis., delves into the world of the paranormal with “Ghosts! Haunted Lighthouses of the Great Lakes.” The exhibit runs through January 2012.

With 11 sentinels, Door County is a prime example of the appeal that lighthouses have with people—spectacular settings, picturesque qualities and historical significance.

But there is another side to lighthouses that has fueled debate, and produced a cottage industry of books and videos while providing work for a band of researchers that might best be called “ghost hunters.”

Visitors will pass through a lighthouse filled with purported paranormal experiences as well as the Horton Gallery, where sensory and psychic skills will be tested, reality challenged and perception explained. History will blend with legend as it relates to nine of the most significant lighthouse hauntings on the Great Lakes.

Museum Curator John Moga stresses the exhibition bares no resemblance to the haunted houses one might experience during Halloween. But that doesn’t mean he and Assistant Curator June Larson haven’t incorporated some entertaining elements throughout the experience as they take historically accurate accounts of hauntings and replicate them for the museum visitor.

While the exhibit may not answer questions about the unexplained, it will take an interesting look at some while offering a historically accurate glimpse at the places where they may have taken place.

920-743-5958 // dcmm.org

THE FLEETS OF THE WORLD RETURN TO U.S. vessels, air shows, international athletic competitions and community relations activities, will mark the occasions in New Orleans, New York City, Norfolk, Baltimore/Annapolis, Boston, New London, Milwaukee, Chicago, Toledo, Cleveland, Detroit, and Buffalo. The Navy’s four annual events in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and San Diego will share the theme and include special shipboard exhibits.

The Chief of Naval Operations has invited 120 countries to send appropriate combat ships as well as their national academy sail training tall ships to America. In 2012, a number of the Navy ships will continue into the Great Lakes for a series of high-profi le port visits along the Canadian U.S. Secretary of the Navy Rayt Mabus and the chairman

and U.S. shorelines. Fleet Weeks, Navy Weeks and other

of Operation Sail, Inc., Jose Fuentes, recently announced

annual events will use the commemoration to impart

a 12-port public/private partnership for the bicentennial

important lessons about America’s maritime heritage. As the

commemoration of the War of 1812 and the writing of “The

commemoration extends, numerous conferences, seminars

Star-Spangled Banner.”

and observances will take place in venues that were crucial to

The celebration begins next year and continues through 2015.

Weeklong events, including parades of warships and sailing

36 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

the outcome of the conflict. navy.mil // opsail.org

LAKE SUPERIOR GETS ITS FIRST CLEAN MARINAS Mayors Ralph Brzezinski of Washburn and Larry MacDonald

Quarterdeck Marinas (Sturgeon Bay), Harbor Centre Marina

of Bayfield, Wis., announced newly certified Clean Marinas

(Sheboygan) and Reefpoint Marina (Racine).

at a Clean Marina Workshop at Pike Bay Marina in Bayfield.

Wisconsin now has 17 Clean Marinas since the certification program began in July 2010. The newly certified marinas are: Pikes Bay Marina (Bayfield), Bayfield City Docks, Washburn Marina, South Bay Marina (Green Bay), McKinley Marina (Milwaukee) and St. Croix Marina (Hudson).

Many Wisconsin marinas have taken steps to voluntarily adopt practices to become certified and adopt up to 100 best management practices depending of the type of facility, ranging from docks only to full-service businesses with fueling, storage and repair and maintenance capabilities.

The marinas have typically improved 10 to 25 practices such

These marinas join 11 other certified marinas in Wisconsin,

as procedures for preventing and cleaning up gas spills,

including The Abbey Marina (Fontana), Gaslight Pointe Marina

installing better hazardous waste containment, boat bottom

(Racine), Lakeshore Towers Marina (Racine), Manitowoc

washing filter systems, managing stormwater and improving

Marina, Nestegg Marine (Marinette), Port Washington Marina,

vessel maintenance practices.

Racine Yacht Club and SkipperBud’s Harbor Club and

wisconsincleanmarina.org

GREAT LAKES LIGHTHOUSE FESTIVAL 2011 This fall North America’s largest lighthouse festival returns. The 16th Annual Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival runs Oct. 6 to 9 in Alpena, Mich., and promises four days filled with activities for the young and old.

Events include lighthouse tours (aerial, boat or personal vehicle), entertainment, auctions, educational programs and vendors. The festival boasts more than 100 maritime-related vendors, including lighthouse preservation groups, artists, authors and more. While the festival’s main site is Alpena’s APLEX Event Center, additional activities will be held throughout the community. From Saginaw to Mackinaw, lighthouses will be open for tours and visits.

Attendees can visit the Great Lakes lighthouses along Lake Huron’s Sunrise Side, including the Tawas Point Lighthouse, Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, Alpena Light, Old Presque Isle Lighthouse, New Presque Isle Lighthouse, 40 Mile Point Lighthouse, Middle Island Light Station, Cheboygan Crib Lighthouse and Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. Additionally, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers many more lighthouses to explore. lighthousefestival.org

LAKE MICHIGAN WATER, WEATHER CONDITIONS ONLINE Real-time lake conditions and weather data on Lake Michigan

LimnoTech is currently working directly with the National

are now available to the public on the Internet thanks to an

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other federal

innovative environmental sensing buoy located off-shore of the

agencies to increase the number of environmental sensors

Cook Nuclear Plant, which is located just north of Bridgman,

in the Great Lakes and to improve the availability of the data

Mich. Indiana Michigan Power contracted LimnoTech, an Ann

to water quality managers and the public. Data from the buoy

Arbor-based company specializing in Great Lakes monitoring

will feed into the developing Great Lakes Observing System,

and modeling, to deploy and maintain the buoy.

the National Data Buoy Center operated by NOAA, and the

The data is being generated for a multi-year environmental

University of Michigan’s observing system.

study of Lake Michigan and will be used by the Cook Plant

Data is also being used by the National Weather Service offices

for engineering studies on possible improvements to the

in Northern Indiana and Grand Rapids to improve hazardous

plant’s water intake system. The buoy will remain in operation

weather predictions, and it will feed Coast Guard information

through the fall. Implementation may be extended for

systems used to respond to distress calls from local boaters.

subsequent years.

bit.ly/cookbuoy

greatlakesboating.com | 37

Great Lakes

PROJECT SHIPWRECK TURNS STUDENTS INTO EXPLORERS On July 13, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary announced the discovery of two Great Lakes shipwrecks. They were discovered as part of Project Shiphunt, an archaeological expedition sponsored

by Sony and the Intel Corp.

In May, five high school students from Saginaw, Mich., undertook the adventure of a lifetime: Hunt for a shipwreck, investigate its identity, and document it in 3D for future generations. Accompanied by a team of scientists and historians from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, they conducted a full-fl edged research mission as they searched the deep waters of northeastern Lake Huron. The team also worked with scientists from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and

NOAA’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory to investigate the historically significant shipwrecks.

The team located the 138-foot schooner M.F. Merrick, which sank in 1889, and the 414-foot steel freighter Etruria, which sank in 1905. They are working to incorporate the new data into the exhibits at the sanctuary’s Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center.

The sanctuary will continue investigating the new shipwrecks and working with the State of Michigan to provide location information so divers can access the new sites. Project Shiphunt is chronicled in a recently released documentary. thunderbay.noaa.gov/shiphunt.html

Randy Parros/Great Lakes Echo

DIVERS BATTLE GREAT LAKES SHIPWRECK PIRATES Seventeen Michigan troopers are officers on the road and also divers in the water as part of the department’s Underwater Recovery Unit.

The unit receives about 60 to 70 calls each year that range from actual dives to public relations events. Divers recover bodies and crime weapons. But they also document artifacts and features of Great Lakes shipwrecks.

Troopers get dive practice while providing Wayne Lusardi, an archaeologist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the help he needs to document newly discovered shipwrecks, sometimes before recreational divers have ever touched them. They assist the DNR with checking shipwrecks, videotaping them and checking to see if artifacts are being left there or if they believe someone has stolen them.

But shipwreck thefts are uncommon now that laws prohibit the taking of artifacts, Lusardi said. New technology is changing the game. Better camera equipment, underwater robotic vehicles and sonar help the team look for shipwrecks or accidents and increase their success at finding them.

Troopers work two years on the road before applying for specialty training. In underwater recovery training they learn scuba diving basics in a pool or swim tank in Lansing, Mich., for one week. They undergo an additional one-month training course with dives in different water types, including water with low to no visibility—a common quality of sites like the Saginaw and Flint rivers.

By: Kimberly Hirai // Great Lakes Echo // greatlakesecho.org

38 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

QUÉBEC ENACTS HISTORIC REGULATIONS On July 8, the Québec Government led by Premier Jean

months, the agreement will become fully effective and the

Charest enacted historic regulations to protect the Great

various dates and deadlines for its provisions will begin.

Lakes and St. Lawrence River Basin. This represents a major milestone in Québec’s efforts to implement the Great Lakes— St. Lawrence River Basin Sustainable Water Resources

The agreement and compact include the following: • Lasting economic development will be balanced with

Agreement, which includes a ban on new or increased

sustainable water use to ensure Great Lakes-St. Lawrence

diversions of water from the basin, with limited exceptions.

River Basin waters are managed responsibly.

Québec’s action follows the National Assembly’s approval of the Agreement and passage of Bill 27, and allows Québec to put the agreement into force. The Great Lakes States previously completed their required actions with enactment of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Compact. Following Ontario’s enactment of regulations expected in coming

• The states and provinces will use a consistent standard to review proposed uses of Great Lakes water.

• Data collection will be strengthened, and the states and provinces will share information, which will improve decision-making by the governments. glslregionalbody.org

STEAMBOAT CELEBRATION IN MADISON This year marks the bicentennial of an event that changed the course of history in North America and the world. In 1811, Nicholas Roosevelt successfully guided a steamboat up and down the Ohio River and eventually to New Orleans, a major feat for the time.

The Steamboat Celebration in Madison, Ind., will be held Oct. 14 to 16. The Rivers Institute at Hanover College and the Belles of Louisville and Cincinnati are partnering in an event that will educate and celebrate this turning point in history. The public is invited to any or all of the cruises offered.

Both Belles will travel from their home states, with passengers, on Friday, Oct. 14. That evening both vessels will offer a moonlight cruise. On Saturday, Oct. 15, docked boat tours, a lunch cruise aboard the Belle of Cincinnati, the Bicentennial Steamboat Race and a Belle Ball aboard both boats will be available. There will be a brunch cruise aboard both Belles before they make their way home on Sunday, Oct. 16.

Madison’s Soup, Stew, Chili & Brew festival will be held this same weekend. The Lanier Mansion’s Legacy of Steam Power Show runs Oct. 15 and 16. rivers.hanover.edu

EPA ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP FOR FIRST-EVER GREAT LAKES WEEK The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other

the largest investment in the lakes in two decades. The lakes

participating organizations announced details of the first-ever

provide jobs, recreation and drinking water for more than 30

Great Lakes Week scheduled for October 2011 in Detroit,

million people in the Great Lakes Basin. Great Lakes Week

Mich. The theme of Great Lakes Week is “Working Together,

represents a new partnership to improve the places around

Taking Action” and will bring representatives of the U.S. and

the basin where people live, work, learn and play.

Canadian governments together with a broad coalition of public and private groups to highlight efforts to implement solutions for the lakes’ most pressing problems.

The week’s activities will focus on progress that has been made in restoration efforts and innovative solutions to challenges affecting the Great Lakes. Hosting the annual

EPA coordinates the efforts of 15 federal and binational

meetings and conferences of various organizations in one

agencies as part of President Obama’s Great Lakes

place will make this one of the most wide-ranging Great

Restoration Initiative. Great Lakes Week advances the GLRI,

Lakes summits in history.

greatlakesboating.com | 39

Fishing

Jose Otto/USFWS

EXCISE TAXES YIELD BIG BENEFITS

Federal excise taxes collected on sport fishing equipment generated a 2,157 percent return on investment to the outdoor industry between 1955 and 2006, according to an analysis conducted by Southwick Associates and Andrew Loftus Consulting for the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

The ROIs in the new report, The Benefi ts to Business from Hunting and Fishing Excise Taxes, were determined by comparing the amount of excise taxes collected annually to the amount of purchases made annually by sportsmen during the respective timeframes. By law, the excise taxes can only by used to maintain fish and wildlife populations, provide public access, and support programs that directly benefit hunters, shooting sports enthusiasts and anglers.

Funding from the excise taxes, which are collected quarterly form outdoor industry manufacturers and importers under the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act and Sport Fish Restoration Act respectively, are apportioned to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies based on land area and state fishing and hunting license sales. Agencies combine these funds with the license revenues to conserve fish and wildlife and their habitats and create recreational and educational opportunities. In 2009, more than $740 million was made available in addition to the $1.4 billion total paid by hunters and anglers in license fees.

According to the study, the outdoor industry excise taxes assisted in improving fishing in the Great Lakes from nearly nonexistent in the 1950s to world class for salmon, trout, walleye and yellow perch, and generated more than $2 billion in retail sales and supporting more than 58,000 jobs. asafishing.org

‘THROUGH A FISH’S EYE’ IN THE MIDWEST In a report released this month under the National Fish

impacted by active mines, or from hydroelectric dams and

Habitat Action Plan, large regions of the Upper Mississippi

other impediments to fish migrations.

River Basin are shown to be at high risk for loss of key fish habitat if current patterns of land use in the watershed continue unchanged in the coming years.

Through a Fish’s Eye highlights areas where fish habitat is most likely still intact and should be protected, as well as locations where conservation or restoration efforts are most

According to the study, high-risk habitats nationwide are in

needed to restore altered systems. It was developed to bring

or near areas experiencing urban development, livestock

strategic focus to conservation actions and aid measurement

grazing and other agriculture activities, or point source

of results using a science-based approach.

pollution. In addition, many at-risk aquatic habitats are being

fishhabitat.org

POPULAR BOAT RAMP APP UPDATED Designed to help boaters and anglers find

to enjoy the same features they have come

boat ramps and marinas on-the-go from the

to expect from the app: a GPS-enabled

convenience of their iPhones and Android

map that instantly pinpoints boat ramps and

phones, the updated Boat Ramp App now

marinas for quick view as well as an option to

offers advanced search functions that allow

view them in list form, with address, distance,

users to search for access points by ZIP code,

and directions provided.

city and state, and local landmarks. Also new is an “add a ramp” feature where users can submit a ramp that may not yet be listed.

Users who have already downloaded the Boat Ramp App to their mobile device will be notified by their service provider that the new

The free app, which is available in the Apple

release is available. Users can also download

iTunes store (it’s compatible with the iPhone,

the app by scanning the iPhone or Android

iPod Touch, and iPad) and in the Android

QR Code.

Marketplace, features more than 35,000 boat ramps across the country. Users will continue

40 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

itunes.apple.com // market.android.com

FISHING COULD HELP OHIO’S CLEAN MARINAS’ REVENUE As rising fuel costs decrease the number of boaters using

They did not attract many additional fish and hypothesize that

Ohio’s marinas, marina owners seek additional business

the habitat was already sufficient. In this case, adding a new

opportunities. Ohio Sea Grant Extension Educators Colleen

structure probably wouldn’t be beneficial. Controlled angling

Wellington and Tory Gabriel, funded by the Lake Erie

produced an average catch rate of 8.5 fish per hour in the five

Protection Fund, found boating marinas attract many fish,

marinas where fishing is permitted, with a maximum of 46 fish

making docks a good spot for fishing.

per hour at one location.

The warm, shallow water produces lots of food. Juvenile

Some marinas don’t allow fi shing because it can interfere

fi sh and panfi sh seek refuge amid underwater structures

with boat traffi; others are private. However, it may provide

that draw larger predatory fi sh. The researchers wanted

another way to promote marinas and introduce Ohio’s next

to see if enhancing the habitat increased their presence.

generation of anglers to the sport.

Using PVC piping, they created underwater structures and sunk them in seven Certified Ohio Clean Marinas from Port Clinton to Geneva.

great-lakes.net

BLUE CATFISH PROJECT MOVES TO HOOVER RESERVOIR Yearling and fingerling blue catfish will be stocked into Hoover

Careful monitoring of this project will determine whether

Reservoir for the fi rst time in the fall of 2011, according

annual stocking in a reservoir with suitable habitat and prey

to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division

can produce a high quality fishery. If stocking results are

of Wildlife. This stocking effort is part of a pilot project

positive and state fish hatcheries are able to meet production

conducted by the division’s Inland Fisheries Research Unit

demands, stocking may be expanded to additional reservoirs.

to determine if stocking blue catfi sh can create trophy fisheries in Ohio reservoirs.

Duane Raver/USFWS

This is the second time that blue catfish will be stocked in Ohio waters in more than 30 years. Blue catfish are native to Ohio, but are currently found only in the Ohio River and ohiodnr.com oh

its tributaries.

SPORTFISHING, BOATING INDUSTRIES SUPPORT FISHAMERICA FishAmerica Foundation has received donations from the

to ensure the survival of Gulf sportfish in areas not directly

Bonnier Corporation, Brunswick Public Foundation and the

affected by the oil spill.

Mercury Marine National Walleye Tournament to support its mission to help keep the nation’s sportfi sh and their habitat healthy.

Brunswick Public Foundation contributed $35,000 to the FishAmerica Foundation’s grants program. When matched with funds from the NOAA Restoration Center and leveraged

Bonnier Corporation made a $10,000 donation to the

with an additional $1.3 million from the local communities,

FishAmerica Gulf Fund in support of fisheries conservation

the grant will provide funding for six grassroots projects to

and habitat restoration in the Gulf of Mexico. The FishAmerica

restore marine and estuarine habitat critical to marine fish.

Gulf Fund was created in 2005 in response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and was expanded in April 2010 to include the Gulf oil spill disaster. Funding from the Gulf Fund has been used to restore habitat along the Texas and Mississippi coasts providing much-needed refuge, spawning and rearing habitat

Mercury Marine presented $3,000 to the FishAmerica Foundation from donations made by tournament anglers through its National Walleye Tournament. asafishing.org

greatlakesboating.com | 41

Marinas

MARINA PROFILE: SOUTHPOINT MARINA

Southpoint Marina is located in Rochester, N.Y., just off Interstate 590. Situated on Irondequoit Bay, about 4 miles from the inlet from Lake Ontario, it is the only marina in Monroe County with calm and deep waters.

Boats from 16 feet to 47 feet can be accommodated, and all slips include free electrical power and water hookups as well as plenty of lighted, free parking. Mooring holders have access to newly remodeled men’s and women’s bathrooms and showers as well as free Wi-Fi Internet access, a secured, lock gate to keep non-boating visitors from the vessels and a convenience store with food, snacks, drinks and boat supplies. There’s also a full-service Italian restaurant on site with outdoor seating facing the water—it also offers a free take-out delivery service.

Additional amenities include convenient roller carts for taking items to and from boats, a picnic area overlooking the bay with grills available to the members, vending machines and daily newspaper delivery.

The dock master is on duty everyday until 10 p.m. during peak season. Contact the marina office for rates and availability. southpointmarina.com // 585-271-1111

PLANS FOR NEARLY $1 MILLION IN IMPROVEMENTS TO ERIE BASIN MARINA Mayor Byron W. Brown of Buffalo, N.Y., has announced

overlooking the beach area and Lake Erie. New concrete,

detailed plans for $1 million in upgrades and improvements

lighted bollards, railings on both sides and handicap

to the Erie Basin Marina.

accessibility will be included in the boardwalk’s construction.

“With the city’s investment of $1 million, Buffalo’s waterfront

The marina seawall will be reconstructed in order to protect

is continuing to take shape and attracting more and more

the shore and visitors to this area of the waterfront. Public

visitors,” said Mayor Brown. “Anyone who has been there

restrooms and showers will be expanded. The installation of

lately can see the tremendous progress and the city is playing

pier gates will act as a security measure for slip holders. The

a key role in all of this development.”

gates will improve safety around private boats.

The project will include a new boardwalk, enhancements to

During fall 2010, the City of Buffalo was awarded a $1 million

restroom facilities and security features for slip holders, with

grant through Upstate City by City Capital and the Empire

a focus on creating safer accessibility to the water’s edge.

State Development Corporation. Improvements are scheduled

Nearly $500,000 is designated for the construction of a new boardwalk. The 350-foot long boardwalk will be elevated,

to begin by Labor Day of this year, with the project slated to be completed in spring 2012.

PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS FOR FOUR RIVERS MARINA Improvements to the Four Rivers Marina that is located at the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon Township, Ill., will include pavement and walkway modifi cations and the installation of an open-air shelter and two boat lifts.

Construction is planned for September through December 2011.

42 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

PAINT CREEK STATE PARK MARINA IMPROVEMENTS A ribbon cutting and dedication of completed renovations at the Paint Creek State Park marina in Bainbridge, Ohio, took place last July, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

The project was completed at a total cost of $1.6 million and included replacement of floating docks and gangways, new boat fueling and sewage pump-out systems and a new, floating concession building. Additional features for wheelchair accessibility include three accessible dock slips, accessible walkways and gangways, three designated parking spaces, and a specially equipped latrine.

MARINALIFE HOSTS BEST MARINAS CONTEST Marinalife—the full-service online concierge service for boaters—has opened online voting for its 2011 Best Marinas Contest. Voting will be open until Oct.15 on marinalife.com/marinacontest. Marinalife members and boaters are invited to vote for the Best Transient Marina and the Marina with the Best Customer Service.

Transient marinas are integral to coastal cruising and are popular with boaters who follow a snowbird schedule or explore ports along different waterways. Boaters often look for amenities like easy access to fuel and pump-out facilities, dog-friendly areas, Wi-Fi networks and perhaps restaurants or other shopping opportunities at transient marinas. Marinas that offer the best customer service will stand out in a boater’s mind perhaps from an interaction with a dockhand, reservation staff or dockmaster; and often, those positive customer service experiences will mean positive reviews and references for the marina.

The more than 8,600 marinas in the Marinalife database that cover the cruising areas of the U.S., Canada, Bahamas, Caribbean, and Central America are all eligible to be selected as the 2011 Best Marinas. The winning marinas will be recognized at the Marinalife booth at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, reviewed in the winter 2011-2012 issue of Marinalife Magazine and will receive a marketing package valued at $2,000.

greatlakesboating.com | 43

Cruising

AGLCA FALL RENDEZVOUS AND REUNION

America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association, an online community of Great Loop cruisers with headquarters in Charleston, S.C., will hold its annual Fall Rendezvous and Reunion from Oct. 25 to 28 at Joe Wheeler State Park in Rogersville, Ala. Most attendees of the Fall Rendezvous have been on the Loop for several months, and coming to Wheeler means reuniting with friends they have met along the way. Staying in one marina, surrounded by magnificent scenery just off the Tennessee River, allows for mixing and mingling with old friends and new members. Traditionally, the Fall Rendezvous offers presentations about the waterway journey from Alabama to South Carolina, general lessons on safety, vessel safety checks and valuable cruising information about the mid-western rivers.

The highlight of the event is the Looper Crawl. The socializing continues with this event as Loopers open their boats to one another. This is a chance for newcomers to see what Loop old-timers like and dislike about the vessel they have chosen.

The event is limited to AGLCA members; however, the association offers trial memberships for those who are interested in learning about the Great Loop and the association. Space is limited and an early registration is required. Registration is $219 per person and covers all events, seminars, side sessions and group meals.

AGLCA is an organization of boaters who have cruised or dream of cruising any or all of North America’s eastern waterways, known as the Great Loop. The association is committed to sharing navigational and cruising information that will enhance the enjoyment and safety of those cruising these waterways. greatloop.org

DISCOVER THE CARIBBEAN, A SAILING FESTIVAL There will be major changes to the 22nd Discover the

Three sailing events comprise the Discover the Caribbean

Caribbean Series, A Sailing Festival, which will start with a

Series regatta: the Feeder Race from Fajardo to Salinas on

cocktail party and press conference on Oct. 20 at the Ponce

Saturday, Nov. 5, a day float from Salinas to Coffin Island,

Yacht and Fishing Club.

8 miles south of Ponce; then to Ponce for the Series—two

Classics and couples cruising classes have been added to

weekends of coastal racing outside Ponce and Coffin Island.

the other divisions (one-design, dinghy, bareboats, racing,

The Ponce Yacht and Fishing Club will offer participants

cruising and multihulls) to make it easier for every sailing

free dockage for a week before and after the races, and

enthusiast to participate and enjoy this event. The race

if boaters come from more than 60 miles away, they will

committee plans to customize coastal courses to suit various

receive an extra free week. The club has 168 slips in addition

types of boats and classes, in addition to the windward-

to the restaurant, swimming pools, junior beach, mini golf,

leeward races for one-designs. Other changes include VIP

playgrounds and tennis courts. Crews are welcome to all

seating for spectators at the fi nish line, numerous kiosks

facilities during the regatta. Free breakfast and dinner every

for food and beverages to complement the other children’s

day of the regatta are included with the boat registration/

activities, volleyball tournament, MTB race, R/C sailing boat

entry. Every participant in the regatta will receive free

regatta, a fashion show and lots of live music.

cocktails with live music after every racing day. discoverpyfc.com

44 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

CROSS THE ATLANTIC WITH THE ATLANTIC RALLY FOR CRUISERS This annual transatlantic rally will start on Nov. 20 in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, has now become the most popular way to cross the Atlantic. The largest transocean sailing event in the world, every year the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers brings together more than 200 yachts from all over the world. The Caribbean destination is Rodney Bay in Saint Lucia, one of the most beautiful islands in the Lesser Antilles. The 2,700 nautical-mile passage on the northeast tradewind route takes on average between 14 and 21 days.

Conceived as a friendly race for cruising yachts to make the Atlantic crossing both safer and more enjoyable, participating yachts must carry a range of safety equipment including a liferaft, EPIRB and VHF radio. Daily radio nets contribute further to the safety of participants. The presence of experienced sailors is another incentive for those with little offshore experience.

The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers has a special flavor, which successfully combines racers with cruisers, old with young, and provides entertainment for all. A wide range of entertainment takes place both before the start and after the finish. The ARC enjoys the support of the Tourist Authority of Gran Canaria, the Port Authority of Las Palmas, Rol Nautic and the Saint Lucia Board of Tourism. worldcruising.com

TEACHING DELIVERIES

BY SEA SENSE Sea Sense…The Women’s Sailing & Powerboating Schook is offering a class called Teaching Deliveries.

An expansion of the On Your Own Boat© courses, this private instruction is designed for many applications, including teaching someone who has just bought a boat how to take it from the point of purchase to their home port. It works equally well for those contemplating a trip to a new cruising ground or traveling the Great Loop, the Intracoastal Waterways or offshore in the oceans for the first time.

Many different situations can be encountered on any passage, be it a duration of two days or two weeks.

Each new occurrence will be used as a teaching tool, from tides and currents in different areas to entering new harbors, dealing with traffic, learning about channel markers and planning the next day’s run.

All aspects of passage-making are covered—from trip planning and execution, learning complex hightech boat systems, traveling to new and challenging areas, to dealing with on-board emergencies. Pricing is dependent on boat size and trip duration. At the end of the delivery, students will have experienced many, varied crusing situations, preparing them to go it alone with new-found skill and confidence.

seasenseboating.com

greatlakesboating.com | 45

HAGERTY RELEASES VINTAGE BOAT HOBBY SURVEY RESULTS

National

The fi rst-ever Hagerty Classic Marine Hobby Survey was

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

recently completed by classic boat owners representing

•

more than 3,000 vintage vessels with a combined value of

vessels in the water in 2010, and more than 50 percent

more than $94 million. The questionnaire was developed to

had their boats in the water for fi ve months or more—

discover what owners enjoy most about the classic boating lifestyle, as well as what concerns, motivates and keeps them on board.

Avenue ISR, a third-party research company unaffiliated with Hagerty, conducted the survey. Participants were recruited

More than 80 percent of all classic boat owners put their

mostly on inland lakes.

•

Seventy-three percent of classic boat owners belong to one or more clubs.

•

Two-thirds cited one of three reasons for owning

through the Antique and Classic Boat Society, the Chris-Craft

their classic boat: visual appeal, personal nostalgia or

Club and an online link at woodyboater.com. Hagerty clients

historical importance. Only 0.9 percent purchased vintage

were also invited to take part.

vessels for “investment purposes.”

•

The number one method of purchasing classic boats is direct/word of mouth/private sale at 20.1 percent. Craigslist was second on the list at 12.3 percent, while eBay was fifth at 11.7 percent.

•

The top concern for the classic boat hobby is harmful effects caused by alternative fuels such as ethanol, increased cost of fuel and operating expenses, and an aging demographic.

•

More than 60 percent report that “the economy has had no impact” on their classic boating behavior. hagerty.com building-collaboration-for-water.org

EPA FINALIZES PUMP LABEL, OTHER MISFUELING GUIDELINES FOR E15 Over the summer, the Environmental Protection Agency

misfueling. In addition, the rule does not ensure compatible

released its rule outlining a gas pump warning label as well

fuels remain available for the nation’s 13 million registered

as other misfueling controls for gasoline containing up to 15

boat owners or the hundreds of millions of owners of

percent ethanol, commonly referred to as E15. Completion of

gasoline-powered equipment. These concerns were outlined

this misfueling rule was one requirement that was stipulated

in NMMA’s full comments to EPA, submitted earlier this year.

in the partial waivers for E15 before the fuel could be sold at retail outlets. Fuel and fuel additive manufacturers now must

In December 2010, the NMMA filed suit in the U.S. Court of

register E15 with the EPA.

Appeals for the D.C. Circuit challenging EPA’s partial waiver to approve E15 for certain motor vehicles. NMMA continues

While both partial waivers exclude marine engines and other

to work with the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, the

non-road engines such as snowmobiles, lawn and garden

Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers and the Association of

equipment, the National Marine Manufacturers Association

International Automobile Manufacturers in a coalition called

continues to be concerned that the measures outlined in

the Engine Products Group in pursuing this legal challenge.

EPA’s misfueling rule do not take significant steps to address anticipated problems with consumer confusion and the risk of

46 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

nmma.org

MARINALIFE ANNOUNCES NAVIGATION NOTICES FOR MARINERS As a full-service online concierge service for boaters, Marinalife

In addition to the email notice, all regional updates are

has added a new feature to give members and mariners yet

available for review on marinalife.com. Navigation Notices

another reason to consider the site their one-stop shop for

are tied in with the nautical chartviewer on marinalife.com

cruise planning and reservations. Navigation Notices are the

allowing boaters to view on the chart exactly where a problem

newest service offered free to boaters giving them regular

or navigation alert exists. This real-time integration of chart

updates on regional cruising areas from the West Coast to the

and notifi cation data empowers boaters with the ability

Great Lakes, East Coast and the Bahamas/Caribbean.

to monitor navigation issues as they travel. marinalife.com

The notices focus on seven popular cruising regions: West Coast, Great Lakes, New England, Mid-Atlantic, New England, the Southeast and the Bahamas/Caribbean. Marinalife provides members the opportunity to select a specific region about which they would like to receive updates or they can receive notices on all cruising regions if interested.

UNIFORM CERTIFICATE OF TITLE ACT FOR VESSELS FINALIZED In July, with support from the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the Uniform Law Commission, a 350-member group of appointed law commissioners that draft uniform laws aimed at solving problems common to all the states, approved the Uniform Certificate of Title Act for Vessels. The Uniform Certificate of Title Act, which is similar to most state boat title schemes, also creates a model vessel brand that acts as a permanent designation on a boat title that discloses any damage to the boat and serves as a valuable tool to consumers, insurers and lenders.

Currently, this information is regulated by a number of different state and federal laws. The Uniform Certificate of Title Act seeks to create a uniform model that will not only be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, but will help and protect consumers by facilitating financing and transfers of ownership as well as by deterring theft.

uniformlaws.org

CBSA REVISES REPORTING REQUIREMENTS While the law has not changed, the Canada Border Services Agency has modernized its reporting requirements for pleasure craft entering Canadian waters, in an effort to make it easier for private boaters to comply with reporting requirements.

All recreational boaters are required to present themselves upon their arrival in Canada as per the Customs Act and Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. This provision applies regardless of whether or not boaters drop anchor, land, enter an inland tributary or moor alongside another vessel while in foreign waters.

Certain private boaters may now present themselves to the CBSA by calling the Telephone Reporting Centre at 1-888-226-7277 from their cellular telephones from the location at which they enter Canadian waters.

The following groups of individuals may report by cellular phone: Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have not landed on U.S. soil; and U.S. citizens and permanent residents who do not plan on landing on Canadian soil.

All other private boaters, including those without cellular telephones, must proceed directly to a designated marine telephone-reporting site and place a call to the TRC in order to obtain CBSA clearance. cbsa-asfc.gc.ca

greatlakesboating.com | 47

LAKE BLUFF YACHT CLUB TO HOST TWO MAJOR REGATTAS

Sailing

The Lake Bluff Yacht Club of Lake Bluff, Ill., will host two major sailing regattas during the summers of 2011 and 2012.

On Sept. 10 and 11, the club will host the 2011 U.S. Masters Sunfish Championships for sailors more than 40 years old. This will be the second time in recent years that the Masters Championships have been held in Lake Bluff. In previous years, as many as 50 men and women from across the U.S. have participated in this event. This event will start and end each day at the public beach in Lake Bluff.

In late July and early August 2012, the LBYC will host the 2012 Sunfish North American Championships. This regatta is open to all sailors and was last held in the Chicago area in 2001. Preceding the North American Championships will be the North American Youth Championship for sailors who are younger than 18 years old. This event will be held at the public beach in Waukegan, Ill. All sailors in both regattas will use single-handed, 14-foot Sunfish sailboats. The public is welcome to observe the racing as well as meet the sailors at the beach before and after racing. www.lakebluffyachtclub.org

FIRST-EVER INDUCTEES ANNOUNCED

BY NATIONAL SAILING HALL OF FAME The National Sailing Center & Hall of Fame has announced

1972 Soling Olympic Gold Medalist Buddy Melges (Zenda,

the 15 sailors who will make up the historic first-ever class of

Wis.); 1968 Star Olympic Gold Medalist and founder of North

inductees into the National Sailing Hall of Fame.

Sails Lowell North (San Diego, Calif.); and America’s Cup

Inductees are American citizens, 45 years of age and older, who have made signifi cant impact on the growth and

winning helmsman and four-time Rolex Yachtsman of the Year Ted Turner (Atlanta, Ga.).

development of the sport in the U.S. in categories of Sailing,

National Sailing Hall of Fame Posthumous Inductees:

Technical and Contributor. Nominations of non-citizens were

Transatlantic Race record setter Capt. Charles “Charlie”

also considered if they influenced the sport in the U.S., and

Barr (Marblehead, Mass.); naval architect Capt. Nathanael

posthumous nominations were also accepted.

G. Herreshoff (Bristol, R.I.); two-time America’s Cup winning

This first group of inductees will be honored on Oct. 23, during an invitation-only ceremony scheduled to take place at San Diego Yacht Club in California.

National Sailing Hall of Fame Inductees: US SAILING Disabled

skipper Emil “Bus” Mosbacher, Jr. (Greenwich, Conn.); the fi rst-ever singlehanded circumnavigator and noted writer Joshua Slocum (San Francisco, Calif.); yacht designer Olin Stephens (Hanover, N.H.); and three-time America’s Cup winning skipper Harold S. Vanderbilt (New York, N.Y.).

Sailing Team Coach and five-time Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year Betsy Alison (Newport, R.I.); surfboard industry pioneer Hobie Alter (Calif.); 1998 Whitbread Round the World Race winning skipper Paul Cayard (Kentfield, Calif.); four-time America’s Cup winning skipper Dennis Conner (San Diego, Calif.); naval architect and America’s Cup winning skipper Ted Hood (Portsmouth, R.I.); sailor, author and Emmy-award winning sailing commentator Gary Jobson (Annapolis, Md.);

48 GLB | Sept/Oct 11

2011halloffamers.nshof.org

US SAILING TO CONDUCT STUDY ON RACE TO MACKINAC TRAGEDY The Chicago Yacht Club has requested US SAILING,

US SAILING’s Annual Meeting at the Loews Annapolis Hotel

the national governing body of the sport, to conduct an

in Annapolis, Md., on Oct. 27 to 29.

independent study on the capsizing of a competing sailboat on Lake Michigan during a storm at the 2011 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac that resulted in the deaths of two sailors on July 18.

US SAILING has appointed an Independent Review Panel for the 2011 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, who are responsible for researching the factors involved in the accident, determining what lessons can be learned and making recommendations for future consideration.

For relevant inquiries regarding this independent study or pertinent information and helpful commentary on the incident or race, please contact US SAILING at macracepanel@ussailing.org.

The members of the Independent Review Panel are Chuck Hawley (Chairman / Santa Cruz, Calif.), Sheila McCurdy (Middletown, R.I.), Ralph Naranjo (Annapolis, Md.) and John Rousmaniere (New York, N.Y.). The four panelists are experienced offshore sailors. All have been longtime members

In early August, the Independent Review Panel created and

of US SAILING’s Safety-at-Sea Committee and served as

distributed an online questionnaire asking participating

moderators for US SAILING certified Safety-at-Sea Seminars.

skippers to report their experiences from the race. The

The Chicago Yacht Club appointed one if its members, Leif

Independent Review Panel will present its report during

Sigmond, Jr., to serve as the club’s liaison to the panel.

SOUTH HAVEN YACHT CLUB WILL HOST FINISH OF 2012 QUEEN’S CUP The South Shore Yacht Club of Milwaukee, sponsor of one

“Stay tuned for specifi c event announcements. This will be a

of yachting’s oldest freshwater offshore races, has accepted

party weekend,” he said.

the South Haven Yacht Club’s invitation to host the finish of the 2012 Queen’s Cup. This will mark the 74th running of this world-class event—but will be the first time the race has ended in South Haven.

The Queen’s Cup race is traditionally held the last Friday evening of June. The Cup itself is one of the oldest known cups in world yachting that is still offered for competition every year. Since the race is held at night, it is always thrilling.

More than 200 boats are expected to set sail from Milwaukee,

After a long night on the water next year, sailors may be

on the evening of June 29, 2012, finishing throughout the day

surprised to see the finish line anchored by the tall ship

in South Haven, Mich., on June 30.

Friends Good Will.

The Chair of the South Haven Yacht Club’s Finish Committee, Alan Silverman, has announced that an entire weekend of events is being planned that will keep family and boaters entertained and well fed Friday through Sunday. ssyc.org // southhavenyachtclub.com

ALBACORE INTERNATIONAL REGATTA The 20th Albacore International Regatta, an event held

Canadian Yacht Club of Toronto to present a world-class

biannually at sites rotating between the United Kingdom

event. Other groups hosting the competiton include members

and North America, will be held in the Canadian waters of

of the Toronto fleet at Mooredale Sailing Club, St. Jamestown

Lake Ontario from Sept. 16 to 23. It is expected that the

Sailing Club, Westwood Sailing Club, Outer Harbour

competition will attract leading international sailors and

Centreboard Club and the Toronto Island Sailing Club.

Olympians from an array of classes.

The Albacore is a versatile, centerboard dinghy that is popular with both recreational and racing sailors. This year, the Canadian Albacore Association has joined with Royal

More than 70 vessels will participate in a week fi lled with social activities and great racing. albacore.ca

greatlakesboating.com | 49

NEW PRODUCTS

ROCKER STOPPERS R Rocker Stoppers help dampen boat roll while at anchor or R drift fishing. Rope is strung through the units at equal 18dr inch intervals with a 5- to 10-pound weight attached at the in bottom. Three devices hanging amidships off each side of bo the boat will steady boats up to 26-feet long. For larger craft, th a graduated scale of 4 to 8 units per side helps stabilize 27- to 50-foot boats.

50 Rocker Stoppers deploy and retrieve in seconds and will not R damage gunwales. da

$12.99 // 510 -732-9229 // davisnet.com $1

VHF ANTENNA The AA10 antenna from Digital Yacht America is specifically designed to operate with AIS (vessel tracking) systems. The white, quarter-wave antenna measures 21 inches and fits a standard, 1-inch GPS antenna-style mounting, so it can be positioned on a pushpit rail, mast top or wheel house roof. It comes with a 33-foot cable fitted with a solder-less connector, no thicker than the wire itself, which means a large hole does not need to be drilled through bulkheads when running the cable. $65 // 978-277-1234 // digitalyachtamerica.com

POWER STEERING FOR OUTBOARDS Pow’rTran Pow’r Steer power steering units are designed for awkward or hard-to-reach transom or bracket-mounted outboard motors up to 20 hp.

The compact units measure 2.5 W x 2.5 H x 24” D. Their marinegrade, submersible, high-torque, 12-volt motors steer outboards faster—in just three seconds—side-to-side to adjust course in rough or fast-moving water.

Pow’r Steer can be hand- or foot-operated using a two-button switch from up to 16 feet. A wireless remote control is also available.

From $519 // 320 -353-5226 // powr tran.com

50 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

PROPS FOR SMALLER BOATS Compatible with Mercury, Evinrude, Johnson, Honda, Force, Nissan, Suzuki and Yamaha engines, Express Propellers from Turning Point Propellers are designed for 40- to 75-horsepower engines with a 3.5-inch gearcase. Tuned progressive pitch angles minimize slip, increase fuel economy and enhance performance. They are available in a range of pitches from 9 to 17 inches.

The Turning Point MasterGuard Hub System’s one-piece design makes replacement easy and eliminates damaging vibration and chatter. The reusable hub kits are covered by a lifetime warranty.

Props from $400, Hub System $33 // 847-437-6800 // tpprops.com

GPS SATELLITE COMPASS Measuring only 16.4 inches in length, the streamlined, lowprofile SI-TEX Vector 3D is the smallest GPS compass on the market. With no moving parts, this precision satellite heading sensor is affordable, easy to install on any vessel and virtually maintenance free. The compass is covered by a two-year limited manufacturer's warranty.

With its integrated Gyro and Tilt sensors, the Vector 3D provides initial start-up in less than 60 seconds, delivers heading fixes in less than 10 seconds and reacquires satellites in less than one second. $2,499 // 631-996 -2690 // si-tex.com

SURFACE MOUNT LOCK The 1085 series Surface Mount Lock from Perko is easy to install and ideal for use on smooth and carpeted surfaces.

It is available with a black, white or gray polymer body with a chrome-plated, zinc alloy “T” handle and a stainless steel stem. Various models are available with different configurations and cam-bar lengths.

Designed to be mounted through surfaces from 1/8- to 3/4-inch thick, the lock requires a 2 1/2-inch cutout hole. $55 // 305-621-7525 // perko.com

greatlakesboating.com | 51

BOAT CARE & FEEDING

INTERLUX® FIBERGLASS BOTTOMKOTE® AQUA Water-based Fiberglass Bottomkote® Aqua is low in Volatile Organic Content (less than 150 grams/liter), which limits solvent emissions into the atmosphere. This smooth, durable antifouling paint produces less friction than traditional hard paints, resulting in better fuel efficiency and reduced greenhouse gases.

The durable finish will give premium protection from algae, slime, barnacles, zebra mussels and other forms of fouling.

Perfect for use on either cruising or performance boats.

908-686 -1300 // yachtpaint.com/usa

BATTERY EQUALISER The Battery Equaliser saves boat owners money and is eco-friendly. Tests have shown that, with normal battery maintenance, the additive doubles battery life with only one treatment. It also reduces charging time and increases discharging time.

Battery Equaliser allows boaters to store their vessels for up to three times longer without losing battery charge.

It is currently available in 500-milliliter and 4-liter containers. $34.95 or $239 // 888-851-4431 // batter yequaliser.com

DETAILER ERASES WATER SPOTS Water spots not only detract from a boat’s good looks, but can pockmark delicate gelcoat when the sun bakes-in the mineral deposits. Spots disappear while Serious Shine cleans and polishes virtually any solid surface, including fiberglass, isinglass and vinyl.

Serious Shine leaves a water-repellent surface with no greasy, artificial residue. The aerosol spray contains UV inhibitors, as well as anti-static properties to repel dust.

14-ounce can $17.98 // 800 -962-6241 // shurhold.com

52 GLB | Sept /Oc t 11

TRAC ECOLOGICAL PSR™ SCALE REMOVER PSR™ safely removes scale, silicate, calcium, sludge and other mineral deposits from potable water systems.

Nontoxic and biodegradable PSR is safe for users, equipment and the environment. It will not harm the properties of most surfaces including plastic, metal, rubber, fiberglass, vinyl, wood or paint.

(However, care should be taken when PSR is used with zincbased metals such as zinc anodes, tin or galvanized materials.)

One gallon of PSR concentrate treats approximately 30 to 40 gallons of potable water. It is available in a 1-, 5-, 55- or 250gallon containers.

From $73.20 // 954-987-2722 // trac-online.com

MARELUBE MARINE LUBRICANT Made from long-lasting PTFE Tefl on® -based lubricants, Marelube is designed to keep marine valve seals and balls working smoothly. It also works well on winches, hinges, tracks and other moving parts.

Clear and non-staining, this nontoxic lubricant works equally well in fresh or salt water. $9.95 // 800 -266 -8820 // forespar.com

ODOR GENIE AND MOISTURE ABSORBER Odor Genie’s special charcoal formula destroys odors at the molecular level. Place one in each bilge compartment, the head, the galley, and the forward and aft cabins to naturally absorb unpleasant odors and replace them with a fresh berry scent.

If your boat has been stored for long periods, and covered with a tarp, or doesn’t dry out in between uses, you may have an excess moisture problem, which creates a damp, dank, musty smell.

DampRid’s Moisture Absorbers are excellent for removing excess humidity and musty odors from boats and other vehicles.

Odor Genie, $5.50; 4-pound Moisture Absorber, $14.85 888-326 -7743 // damprid.com

greatlakesboating.com | 53

MARINE MART

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES SAILBOATS

POWERBOATS

1973 32’ Chance Paceship: Beautiful Nova Scotia-built vessel used only in fresh water. Large inventory including jib, main, 2 genoas, spinnaker, drifter, tallboy, GPS, Omni compasses, Columbian sounder, Swoffer log & speedometer, alcohol stove, chart table. Rigging & equipment in dry storage. Atomic 4 engine. Warehoused inside. One owner 30 years. Minimum use, excellent care. Motivated seller. $12,500/OBO. 231-723-2330.

1962 18’ Lone Star: Holiday outboard.

Includes a 1964 Evinrude Speedi Four 70 hp and sits on a trailer. Paperwork is good. Asking $700, 815-455-2179.

1966 28’ CC Model 283 “F” Sportsman, LOA, 10’6” beam, 185 h.p. single screw, cuddy cabin, Great Lakes only, full cover, new custom 2-axle Loadmaster trailer, extra prop, extensive accessory list, clear title for hull & trailer, owners & operator’s manuals stored under cover, color photos available, $20,000/OBO. Email rnelsonesq@ync.net 847-577-6613.

BOAT TRANSPORTATION

1999 38’ Powerquest Avenger: Fresh water only, twin 454 Mags Mercruisers.

Stainless props/K Planes w/indicators/ tiebar/ladder/drive showers/thru hull exhaust w/mufflers/silent choice/ battery charger/fume detector/depth finder. Spring Lake, Mich. $89,000/OBO Email vandine@thebettertan.com.

616-836-1550

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE ADS GOT A BOAT TO SELL? Complimentary 25-word classified boat advertisements in the Nov./Dec. 2011 issue.

(NO STRINGS ATTACHED!)

Email your text-only advertisement to:

classifieds@greatlakesboating.com.

Free classified boat advertisement offer limited to one per reader.

Photographs may be added for $25. To upload a picture and pay, visit: greatlakesboating.com/classifi eds.

All classifi ed ads are subject to publisher’s approval. Space is limited. Free ads will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Advertisements for the Nov./Dec. 2011 issue must be received by October 5, 2011.

54 GLB| Sept/Oct 11

1998 50’ Sea Ray Sundancer: Owner is fanatical. Boat waxed weekly, stored indoors. Fresh water only. Spring Lake, Mich. Email vandine@thebettertan.com 616-836-1551.

MOVE YOUR BOAT WORRY FREE ON OUR AIR RIDE TRAILER Free Quotes! Dave’s Marine Transport.

Toll Free: (866) 814-DAVE (3283)

www.davesmarinetransport.com

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A MARINA? CONTACT: Eddy A. Dingman, CNS (847) 987.6626 COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL, NRT

NATIONAL GOLF AND MARINA PROPERTIES GROUP Visit: http://golfcourseandmarinasales.com

FLORIDA

INDIANA

SEPTEMBER 9-11

SEPTEMBER 9-11

SEPTEMBER 9-11

DAYTONA FALL B OAT S HOW

I NDIANAPOLIS FALL B OAT & RV S HOW

CNY FALL B OAT S HOW

Daytona Beach Ocean Center Daytona Beach marinesource.com/boat_ shows/daytona-fallboat-show.html

Indiana State Fairgrounds Indianapolis

New York State Fairgrounds Syracuse cnyboatshow.com

renfroproductions.com

SEPTEMBER 9-11

OCTOBER 14-16

TAMPA B OAT S HOW

S TEAMBOAT C ELEBRATION

Tampa Convention Center Tampa

Downtown/Boat Ramps Madison

tampaboatshow.com

rivers.hanover.edu

OHIO SEPTEMBER 9-11

O HIO S TERNWHEEL FESTIVAL Ohio River Levee Marietta ohioriversternwheelfestival.org

OCTOBER 27-31

FORT L AUDERDALE I NTERNATIONAL B OAT S HOW Multiple venues Fort Lauderdale

MARYLAND OCTOBER 4-9

TRAWLER FEST BMC Inner Harbor Marina Baltimore

showmanagement.com

passagemaker.com

SEPTEMBER 14-18

N ORTH A MERICAN I N -WATER B OAT S HOW Cedar Point Marina Sandusky cedarpointboatshow.com

NOVEMBER 10-13

FORT M YERS B OAT S HOW

OCTOBER 6-10

SEPTEMBER 17

Harborside Convention Center/City Yacht Basin Fort Myers

U NITED S TATES SAILBOAT S HOW

C LEVELAND D RAGON B OAT FESTIVAL

Annapolis City Dock/Harbor

Rivergate Park

Annapolis

Cleveland

swfmia.com

usboat.com

clevelanddragonboatfestival.com

NOVEMBER 20-21

OCTOBER 13-16

VERO B EACH B OAT S HOW

U NITED S TATES POWERBOAT S HOW

OKLAHOMA

Riverside Park Vero Beach

Annapolis City Dock/Harbor

verobeachboatshow.com

usboat.com

Annapolis

ILLINOIS

MICHIGAN

SEPTEMBER 16-18

SEPTEMBER 22-25

Q UINCY C LASSIC B OAT O UTBOARD S HOW Lake Geneva Quincy

AND

B OATING

AND

O UTDOOR FESTIVAL

Metro Beach Metropark Harrison Township boatingandoutdoorfest.com

217-242-7283

OCTOBER 6

M ARITIME CAREER DAY Navy Pier Chicago chicagoshipmasters.com

SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 2

G RAND L AKE M AHOGANY & C HROME C LASSIC B OAT FESTIVAL Arrowhead Yacht Club Grand Lake heartland-classics.org

WISCONSIN SEPTEMBER 21-24

ACBS I NTERNATIONAL S HOW & M EETING

NEW YORK

The Abbey Resort

SEPTEMBER 9-11

grandandglorious2011.com

Fontana

N IAGARA FRONTIER A NTIQUE AND C LASSIC B OAT S HOW AND R ACE B OAT R EUNION Buffalo Launch Club Grand Island oldboatsbuffalo.org

greatlakesboating.com | 55

EVENTS CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER

MARINE MART

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES SAILBOATS

POWERBOATS

1973 32’ Chance Paceship: Beautiful Nova Scotia-built vessel used only in fresh water. Large inventory including jib, main, 2 genoas, spinnaker, drifter, tallboy, GPS, Omni compasses, Columbian sounder, Swoffer log & speedometer, alcohol stove, chart table. Rigging & equipment in dry storage. Atomic 4 engine. Warehoused inside. One owner 30 years. Minimum use, excellent care. Motivated seller. $12,500/OBO. 231-723-2330.

1962 18’ Lone Star: Holiday outboard.

Includes a 1964 Evinrude Speedi Four 70 hp and sits on a trailer. Paperwork is good. Asking $700, 815-455-2179.

1966 28’ CC Model 283 “F” Sportsman, LOA, 10’6” beam, 185 h.p. single screw, cuddy cabin, Great Lakes only, full cover, new custom 2-axle Loadmaster trailer, extra prop, extensive accessory list, clear title for hull & trailer, owners & operator’s manuals stored under cover, color photos available, $20,000/OBO. Email rnelsonesq@ync.net 847-577-6613.

BOAT TRANSPORTATION

1999 38’ Powerquest Avenger: Fresh water only, twin 454 Mags Mercruisers.

Stainless props/K Planes w/indicators/ tiebar/ladder/drive showers/thru hull exhaust w/mufflers/silent choice/ battery charger/fume detector/depth finder. Spring Lake, Mich. $89,000/OBO Email vandine@thebettertan.com.

616-836-1550

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE ADS GOT A BOAT TO SELL? Complimentary 25-word classified boat advertisements in the Nov./Dec. 2011 issue.

(NO STRINGS ATTACHED!)

Email your text-only advertisement to:

classifieds@greatlakesboating.com.

Free classified boat advertisement offer limited to one per reader.

Photographs may be added for $25. To upload a picture and pay, visit: greatlakesboating.com/classifi eds.

All classifi ed ads are subject to publisher’s approval. Space is limited. Free ads will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Advertisements for the Nov./Dec. 2011 issue must be received by October 5, 2011.

54 GLB| Sept/Oct 11

1998 50’ Sea Ray Sundancer: Owner is fanatical. Boat waxed weekly, stored indoors. Fresh water only. Spring Lake, Mich. Email vandine@thebettertan.com 616-836-1551.

MOVE YOUR BOAT WORRY FREE ON OUR AIR RIDE TRAILER Free Quotes! Dave’s Marine Transport.

Toll Free: (866) 814-DAVE (3283)

www.davesmarinetransport.com

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A MARINA? CONTACT: Eddy A. Dingman, CNS (847) 987.6626 COLDWELL BANKER COMMERCIAL, NRT

NATIONAL GOLF AND MARINA PROPERTIES GROUP Visit: http://golfcourseandmarinasales.com

FLORIDA

INDIANA

SEPTEMBER 9-11

SEPTEMBER 9-11

SEPTEMBER 9-11

DAYTONA FALL B OAT S HOW

I NDIANAPOLIS FALL B OAT & RV S HOW

CNY FALL B OAT S HOW

Daytona Beach Ocean Center Daytona Beach marinesource.com/boat_ shows/daytona-fallboat-show.html

Indiana State Fairgrounds Indianapolis

New York State Fairgrounds Syracuse cnyboatshow.com

renfroproductions.com

SEPTEMBER 9-11

OCTOBER 14-16

TAMPA B OAT S HOW

S TEAMBOAT C ELEBRATION

Tampa Convention Center Tampa

Downtown/Boat Ramps Madison

tampaboatshow.com

rivers.hanover.edu

OHIO SEPTEMBER 9-11

O HIO S TERNWHEEL FESTIVAL Ohio River Levee Marietta ohioriversternwheelfestival.org

OCTOBER 27-31

FORT L AUDERDALE I NTERNATIONAL B OAT S HOW Multiple venues Fort Lauderdale

MARYLAND OCTOBER 4-9

TRAWLER FEST BMC Inner Harbor Marina Baltimore

showmanagement.com

passagemaker.com

SEPTEMBER 14-18

N ORTH A MERICAN I N -WATER B OAT S HOW Cedar Point Marina Sandusky cedarpointboatshow.com

NOVEMBER 10-13

FORT M YERS B OAT S HOW

OCTOBER 6-10

SEPTEMBER 17

Harborside Convention Center/City Yacht Basin Fort Myers

U NITED S TATES SAILBOAT S HOW

C LEVELAND D RAGON B OAT FESTIVAL

Annapolis City Dock/Harbor

Rivergate Park

Annapolis

Cleveland

swfmia.com

usboat.com

clevelanddragonboatfestival.com

NOVEMBER 20-21

OCTOBER 13-16

VERO B EACH B OAT S HOW

U NITED S TATES POWERBOAT S HOW

OKLAHOMA

Riverside Park Vero Beach

Annapolis City Dock/Harbor

verobeachboatshow.com

usboat.com

Annapolis

ILLINOIS

MICHIGAN

SEPTEMBER 16-18

SEPTEMBER 22-25

Q UINCY C LASSIC B OAT O UTBOARD S HOW Lake Geneva Quincy

AND

B OATING

AND

O UTDOOR FESTIVAL

Metro Beach Metropark Harrison Township boatingandoutdoorfest.com

217-242-7283

OCTOBER 6

M ARITIME CAREER DAY Navy Pier Chicago chicagoshipmasters.com

SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 2

G RAND L AKE M AHOGANY & C HROME C LASSIC B OAT FESTIVAL Arrowhead Yacht Club Grand Lake heartland-classics.org

WISCONSIN SEPTEMBER 21-24

ACBS I NTERNATIONAL S HOW & M EETING

NEW YORK

The Abbey Resort

SEPTEMBER 9-11

grandandglorious2011.com

Fontana

N IAGARA FRONTIER A NTIQUE AND C LASSIC B OAT S HOW AND R ACE B OAT R EUNION Buffalo Launch Club Grand Island oldboatsbuffalo.org

greatlakesboating.com | 55

EVENTS CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER NOVEMBER

Advertiser Ad ertiser Index Inde Carver Yachts

21

Chicago Harbors/Westrec

BC

Contender Yachts

3

Cruisers Yachts

7

Dock Revive

56

Essex Credit

1

Fountain Powerboats

5

Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show 27 JascoPix.com

43

Koenig & Strey

45

Lake Forest College

10

North Point Marina

IFC

Princecraft

IBC

Progressive Insurance Sail Sheboygan

17 2

Valvtect

23

TO ADVERTISE IN GLB

please email: ads@greatlakesboating.com

JOIN THE VOICE of 4.3 MILLION BOATERS

Great Lakes Boating Federation

www.greatlakesboatingfederation.org

56 GLB| Sept/Oct 11

Unbelievable!

A guaranteed slip in one of Chicago’s premier harbors.

It’s true! In 2012, with the addition of the 31st Street Harbor, boaters are guaranteed a slip in the coveted Chicago harbor system. We are currently accepting reservations and harbor change requests for 2012.

Please visit www.chicagoharbors.info for more information.

46596,

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3000’ Breakwater Garage Parking Heated Winter Storage Launch Ramp

Fuel Dock Harbor Store Playground Beach

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