Environmental Guide for Personal Watercraft
By Officer Joe Alvarez

If you operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC), you must be aware of the environmental impact the craft may have in certain areas. If operated in a responsible manner, good working PWC's will have little or no adverse effect on the water, shoreline, land or animals in the area. However, fish spawning and plant life may be adversely affected as a result of high speed operation in shallow creeks, coves and tributaries.

Extensive damage to coral, animals and the bottoms of waterways can be prevented by riding in main channels and limit riding in shallow waters. When sediments are stirred up from the bottom they limit light penetration and deplete oxygen which effect fish and bird feeding.

Stay clear of posted bird nesting areas. The noise and movements of vessels may disturb the bird populations. A bird that has to fly away from disturbing noises expends unnecessary energy that could harm a resting or feeding bird.

Be aware of low tide in coastal areas. Delicate vegetation and sea grass beds may be revealed during low tide. Erosion, as a result of the disturbance of these areas from boats and PWC's may have long term damage to vegetation. The sea grasses are nursery grounds where many of the fish in our waterways originate.

The excessive wakes from vessels contribute to the erosion of the shoreline, particularly in areas where a PWC can operate such as narrow streams and inlets. The destruction of theses shorelines affects the habits of plants and animals. Always remember to avoid high speeds and obey the posted no wake zones.

Use common sense and courtesy when operating your PWC. Your PWC allows you to explore areas that traditional boaters are unable to reach. Always take into consideration the impact you may have on the environment before you go out on the water. Remember, safe boating is smart boating.

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