A Source of Concern

On March 28, Howard Myerson, outdoor columnist for the Grand Rapids Press, issued a heads-up that was heeded by Bills Lake resident Bob Cobb. It involves the possibility that all recreational boat owners might have to apply for an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) permit starting in September if Congress doesn’t pass legislation this summer exempting our boats.

Since 1973, we have not had to apply for permits even though in truth we discharge water (primarily engine cooling water) into Bills Lake when we run our boat motors. But because of a ruling by a well-intentioned judge regarding discharge of ballast water from ocean liners and cargo ships (the same discharge, by the way, that presumably got us our zebra mussels), the judge painted with a broad brush by declaring that the EPA had no authority to exempt small craft such as jet skis, speed boats, pontoons, and even sail boats (runoff water when it rains on them is apparently regarded as discharge).

It seems reasonable (an understatement) that we owners of small boats should be exempt from applying for an EPA permit to operate our small craft but only if Congress says so through legislation which is pending. Myerson says that they need prodding via letters and e-mails before it is too late. Otherwise 13 million boaters nationwide (approximately 935,00 in Michigan) will be required to get a permit starting in September.

Myerson’s column, along with the addresses of your Michigan senators, can be found by clicking here. It is presented in pdf format so that you can adjust the print size using the zoom feature.

Addresses of our senators:

Senator Carl Levin
269 Russell Office Building
Washington D.C. 20510
202 224-4822
If you wish to e-mail Senator Levin, his Web site can be easily goggled. There are contact instructions within.

Senator Debbie Stabenow
133 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington D.C.  20510
202 224-4822
senator@stabenow.senate.gov