My life took a tragic turn when my right-hand fingertip was severed by a four-foot wave caused by a wake surfing boat. This wave forcefully pulled the snubber rope through the cleat of my boat, caused by the violent upheaval of my boat bow that resulted in my accident. Such incidents highlight the dangers posed by wake surfing boats operating too close to docks and the shoreline at Island Park Reservoir. Wake surfing boats generate large waves that can severely damage docks, endanger swimmers, and create unsafe conditions for other boaters. When they operate within 500 feet of docks or the shoreline, these risks are magnified, threatening the safety and well-being of everyone enjoying the reservoir.

The University of Minnesota’s St. Anthony Falls Laboratory conducted a study that analyzed the difference in wave size, strength and power between boats used for water skiing, tubing and general recreation against boats used while wake surfing. Typical operation for most common boats at higher speeds — roughly 20 mph — lifts the boats higher on the water creating smaller waves. Wake boats, on the other hand, are heavy and typically fill their ballasts with water, sinking them farther into the water. They are designed to create the biggest waves ideal for surfing. 

But those waves, the study showed, end up being two to three times larger, with six to nine times more energy and six to 12 times more power than those from other boats operated at their quicker speeds. 

All of this means that it takes a wave from a wake boat about 500 feet to become the same size as a wave from a non-wake boat at 200 feet. In other words, if lake rules say recreational boats need to stay about 200 feet from shore at high speeds, wake boats should stay more than 500 feet.

According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the rapidly increasing popularity of wake surfing has led to a rise in boating-related accidents. The effects of large waves can be devastating, causing injuries and property damage, and disturbing the natural habitat of aquatic life. The harm extends to increased erosion of the shoreline, impacting local ecosystems and property values.

To protect the safety of all reservoir visitors and preserve the environment, we urge local authorities to enforce a restriction that prohibits wake surfing boats from operating within 500 feet of any dock or the shoreline at Island Park Reservoir. This regulation is not unprecedented; similar rules have been effectively implemented in other states such as Minnesota and Washington, where they have notably reduced accidents and environmental impact.

Such a measure will foster a safer and more enjoyable environment for families, boaters, and wildlife enthusiasts. We believe that with your support, we can prevent future tragedies like mine and ensure that Island Park Reservoir remains a haven for recreation and natural beauty.

Please join us in urging Island Park authorities to take immediate action by signing this petition. Together, we can create a safer environment for everyone on the water.