Growth in Kayaking Spawns Call For New Laws and Regulations

There is an interesting article in USA Today focusing on the surge in popularity of kayaking the coastal and lake waters of the United States. The article goes in to some detail about how rescue efforts involving kayakers are straining some search and rescue departments. The search and Rescue crews are now calling on lawmakers to set some new rules and regulations regarding this growing sport sector.

Paddling represents our greatest risk in the recreational boating community,” says John Fetterman, a member of the Maine Marine Patrol and president of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. For rescue teams, it’s become “a huge drain.”

John Fetterman, talking to USA Today, also states that no government agency currently tracks deaths related to the sport of kayaking because so man different agencies are involved in search and rescue efforts when they happen.

“American Canoe Association (ACA) says kayaking is growing faster than
any other outdoor activity on land or water; maritime officials say
rescues have skyrocketed as a result.

I can actually attest to this growth, myself, just by seeing how many new publications are springing up regarding kayaking on the internet.

The new laws being proposed could eventually require all kayakers to take a series of courses before setting out on the water. I am not sure how anyone would know if you had taken part in the courses unless the government enacts a new permit system in regards to these personal use vehicles.

I think it is safe for us to say that we all wish people would be smart about embarking on new endeavors in the wild, but likewise, we know this isn’t going to happen. Could it be a good thing? Sure, as long as permits and courses aren’t so expensive to keep people away. What are your thoughts?