NMMA - National Marine Manufacturers Association Inc.
08/14/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/13/2026 23:18
Access to Public Waterways Benefits Boaters, Businesses and Communities
With the summer boating season in full swing, NMMA continues to underscore the importance of preserving public water access for wakesurfing and other forms of responsible on-water recreation.
Access matters to the communities and businesses that depend on recreational boating. Across the country, boating drives economic activity for manufacturers, dealers, marinas, service providers, tourism businesses and waterfront communities. Together, these businesses contribute $230.3 billion in annual economic impact and support 812,558 jobs nationwide. During the summer months, access to public lakes and rivers is particularly important to small businesses and local economies that benefit from strong participation in outdoor recreation.
Wakesurfing is a family-friendly, multigenerational activity that brings people together on the water. Typically enjoyed at speeds of 10-12 mph, the sport is accessible across ages and skill levels, offering families another way to experience boating and water sports together.
NMMA supports practical, science-informed policies that preserve public water access while promoting safe, responsible boating. Statewide regulations informed by research, paired with robust boater education, can address concerns while allowing wakesurfers and other waterway users to safely enjoy shared waters.
NMMA also supports the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators' recommendation that wakesurfing occur at least 200 feet from shore. Commonsense operating practices-including maintaining appropriate distances, minimizing repetitive passes and respecting other waterway users-can help promote safety and responsible boating.
Public water access is about more than any one activity. Balanced policies help ensure America's waterways remain open for recreation while sustaining the businesses and communities connected to recreational boating.
NMMA will continue working with policymakers, boating safety experts and industry stakeholders to advance education-first, research-informed policies that preserve access and promote safe, responsible recreation for current and future generations.
NMMA - National Marine Manufacturers Association Inc. published this content on August 14, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on August 14, 2026 at 05:18 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]