This is a safety issue!

There are two ways to get around Nelson Island. The east side of the island is wide and deep. Motorized boats can easily navigate this channel. The west side of the island is shallow and narrow. This channel is often not safely or easily navigated by motorized boaters. The west side of the island also contains the designated Leslie Groves Park swimming area and is frequented by many on kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards and other non-motorized watercraft.

Last Saturday I went paddle boarding with my daughter and a friend in this area. We had two incidents of large motorized boats creating wakes greater than 2 feet high and coming within 10 feet of us while we were on our boards. I was afraid that we would be hit! The boaters seemed oblivious and even waved after they passed us! I did not know these people.   

Regarding boat traffic along the Columbia River: I propose the area between Nelson Island and Leslie Groves Park in Richland, WA, become an area where motorized boats are banned.  

Please sign this petition to ensure safety for all who use the river!

It will save the propellers of many a boater and it may save a life!