Dear all members of the Oregon State House and Senate,

We would like to bring your attention to an injustice that is happening in our state.  Everyone in the state of Oregon up until now has had access to boating on one of the few waterways in the Willamette Valley, the Willamette river and that is now at risk of being taken away from ALL Oregonians.  We the people of Oregon are asking you to put a STOP immediately to this bill that so unfairly restrict the recreation of ALL Oregonians.

A small collection of river front homeowners and special interest groups have introduced legislation that will take away everyone in the state’s opportunity to enjoy towed water sports on the Willamette River for good! Not only would this legislation prohibit current boaters from using the river, it would also prevent any future or potential boat owners or boaters from spending their summer afternoons on the Willamette. This legislation is in grave risk of passing if you do not act quickly. We know the vote is in the house today, we ask you to vote NO in the house and vote NO if it gets to the senate. This is urgent!

The bills in consideration: SB 1589, will prohibit boats over 5000 pounds (many recreational boats) authorized for towed water sports in the 20-mile stretch of the Willamette River, from Oregon City to Newberg. This Bill goes too far, as they would strip safe, outdoor opportunities from hundreds of families that boat along the Willamette River. Especially during this pandemic outdoor water sports are one of the safest activities we can enjoy. This section of the river is already highly regulated for towed sports, with wake surfing only allowed in 2 areas where there are no docks or homes. The passing of this bill would reduce water safety in Oregon, as it would add to the congestion of other bodies of water. In addition, these bills will decimate small businesses that depend on the river. Recreational boating brings $1.6 billion in annual economic impact to Oregon and supports almost 6,000 jobs and more than 400 businesses. 

The Marine Board's proposed expansion and restrictions have been designed by special interest groups to serve their agenda and that of a few private homeowners that built or bought a home on a PUBLIC WATERWAY and they are the MINORITY and do not represent our community at large.  MOST OF THE PEOPLE who live on the river do so to enjoy water sports and boating during the few short months the weather allows in Oregon. We are advocating for safe and equal access to waterways because it is the right thing to do which is why we desperately need your help to stop this legislation.

The vast majority of boaters are safe and responsible. Instead of banning the public and any future boaters from the waters, we should focus on increased education and the enforcement of the existing rules. Thank you for all of your help and support to keep the Willamette open for all!

Please protect the WILLAMETTE RIVER FOR ALL OREGONIANS!!!

Sincerely,

The People of Oregon

For more information- www.oregonfamiliesforboating.org