No-wake zones being ignored

Thanks to the hard work of the Parks and Recreation Department, Riverfront Park has become one of many places residents can go to relax, fish and picnic.

Riverfront Park has also become a favorite destination for boats and personal watercraft owners because it has a ramp and allows access to the Barren Fork River. However, several complaints have been received by the Parks and Recreation Department regarding wakes caused by watercraft, according to department director Carlene Brown.

?The area is popular for the activities it offers,? said Brown. ?As more and more people use the area, wakes are becoming a problem to others enjoying the area and property owners along the river.?

Tennessee law regards anything within 300 feet of a commercial boat dock as a no-wake zone, regardless of whether the area is marked by buoys. Operators within this area must maintain a no-wake speed. No-wake speed is idle speed or slow speed creating no appreciable waves.

High speeds close to shore or near other boats is also prohibited. Boaters and watercraft operators are supposed to maintain a safe distance of separation between boats and the shoreline. Most boaters and shoreline property owners do not hesitate to report violators.

Also, personal watercraft cannot be ridden close to ramps, docks, or the shore as this is considered reckless operation by Tennessee law.

No-wake zones are established to reduce the risk to people and property and to protect wildlife. A boat or personal watercraft near shore can interrupt feeding and nesting wildlife and cause animals to deviate from their normal behavior.

?We will have to start prosecuting no-wake zone offenders,? said Brown. ?Everyone has the right to enjoy the park and we all can as long as everyone respects the area and others.?