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March/April 2014 issue of Great Lakes Boating
April 2014 Display until May 15, 2014 $5.95 US $5.95 CAN greatlakesboating.com PUBLISHER'S NOTE One sector of boating that desperately needs change is the recreational harbors on the Great Lakes. Our story on page 24 describes their decaying infrastructures. This is a The change from winter to spring is a welcome occurrence most years, but this year it's a very welcome one. Ask anyone who lives in or around the Great Lakes and they'll tell you that this year's winter was one for the ages. To describe the winter of 2013-2014 as one of cold, wind, and snow is to state the obvious. The more disconcerting picture is that taken by satellites orbiting the globe and showing that on Feb. 3, 2014, 80 percent of the Great Lakes were covered with ice. Our associate editor, Jerry Koncel, tells me that he's lived in Chicago for more than 60 years, and this is one of the worst winters he's ever experienced. But enough about cold and snow, let's turn our attention to the changes that are coming. Sometimes changes are made to remind us of great people, memorable events, or just simpler times. In the case of our cover story on Pro-Line Boats, the change recalls one of the greatest writers of the 20th Century who had an all-consuming passion for fishing and had a definite connection to the Great Lakes—Ernest Hemingway. Born in Oak Park, Ill., a western suburb of Chicago, Hemingway spent his childhood learning how to fish on Lake Michigan, as well as during the summers he spent on Walloon Lake in Michigan. Many of his novels reflect his enduring love of fishing, while his life spent in Key West was full of adventures sportfishing the waters between the tip of Florida and Cuba. Hemingway passed on to his children and grandchildren his love of fishing, and now Pro-Line Boats has collaborated with the family to design the Pro-Line Hemingway Edition fishing boats. The design of these boats resembles his beloved fishing vessel Pilar and even bears a replica of his signature. Pro-Line debuted, the Pro-Line 23 Sport Hemingway Edition, at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. At the Oct. 31 unveiling, two of Hemingway's grandchildren, Mina Hemingway and John Hemingway, were on hand to do the honors. 4 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS sad tale of small recreational harbors that dot the coastlines of the Great Lakes and whose dredging needs and necessary infrastructure repairs remain largely unmet. The major reason for these decaying harbors is a constrained budget from Washington, D.C. It's time to change this, and we're calling on Congress to set aside funds in the Water Resources Development Act for use at Great Lakes harbors. In addition, we want the USFWS to use Wallop Breaux Funds (The Sport Fishing and Boat Restoration Act) to dredge these harbors, not add more transient slips via Boating Infrastructure Grant funds. We've already got too many of these large transient slips. Change is also called for in the way we use facial cleansers and other personal care items. They're showing up as plastic microparticles in the Great Lakes, and as Sherri Mason, Ph.D., our author and researcher notes, they can cause great harm to the marine ecosystem, to say nothing of the fish we eat. Mason says that if we are part of the problem, then we too can be part of the solution to this growing problem affecting our pristine waters. See her article on page 28. And when it comes to safe boating practices, our article from BoatUS, which begins on page 35, recommends the 10 pieces of equipment that should be aboard every boat 20 feet or smaller. Finally, you can learn about the latest changes and innovations in outboard motors beginning on page 18. Each year, major outboard manufacturers try to make the lives of recreational boaters and fishermen a lot easier with lighter models, more fuel-efficient engines, and innovative technology. They've certainly done that again this year, and joysticks that maneuver boats forward, backward, and diagonally, with one hand are a standout feature. So enjoy the change from winter to spring, and most of all, enjoy your time on the water. Publisher & Editor in Chief F. Ned Dikmen Managing Editor Karen Malonis Associate Editor Jerome A. Koncel Contributing Writers Bob Brandenstein Sherri A. Mason, Ph.D. Art Direction Steve Jones Advertising | Sales Inquiries Neil Dikmen p 312.266.8400 • f 312.266.8470 e email@example.com GREAT LAKES BOATING® Magazine (ISSN 1937-7274) © 2014 is a registered trademark (73519-331) of Chicago Boating Publications, Inc., its publisher, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610. For editorial inquiries, contact Great Lakes Boating Magazine at 1032 N. LaSalle, Chicago, IL 60610 p 312.266.8400 or e email@example.com. Great Lakes Boating Magazine is available online at greatlakesboating.com and at any of the distribution centers and newsstands in areas surrounding the Great Lakes. Postmaster should forward all undelivered issues to Great Lakes Boating Magazine, 1032 N. LaSalle Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60610. All manuscripts should be accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Great Lakes Boating Magazine is not responsible and will not be liable for non-solicited manuscripts, including photographs. Great Lakes Boating Magazine does not assume liability or ensure accuracy of the content contained in its articles, editorials, new product releases and advertising. Inquiries may be directed to the authors through the editorial office. Products, services and advertisements appearing in Great Lakes Boating Magazine do not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of their safety by Great Lakes Boating Magazine. Material in the publication may not be reproduced in any form without written consent of the Great Lakes Boating Magazine editorial and executive staff. Past copies may be purchased by sending a written request to the offices of Great Lakes Boating Magazine. For reprints contact: FosteReprints, p 800.382.0808 or f 219.879.8366. TABLE OF CONTENTS 22 Features FEATURES • HEMINGWAY EDITION................. 12 • OUTBOARD INNOVATIONS ............ 22 • DECAYING MARINAS .................... 24 • MICRO PARTICLES ....................... 28 • INVASIVE SPACIES........................ 32 OTC PRO-LINE 23 SPORT Hemingway Edition LOA: BEAM: DRAFT (HULL): DEADRISE: .................... 23'0" .................... 8'6" ....................1'5" .................... 20° ....................118 gals SPOTLIGHTS Spotlight • U.S. POWER SQUADRON .............. 10 • GREENLINE ............................... 16 • TEN PIECES OF GEAR ................. 35 32 DEPARTMENTS Departments • PUBLISHER'S NOTE...........................04 • EDITORIALS ........................................ 08 • NEW PRODUCTS ...............................48 • BOAT CARE AND FEEDING..................50 • EVENTS CALENDAR ..........................52 • MARINE MART..................................53 • ADVERTISER INDEX ..........................54 DEADRISE: Pro-Line's 23 Sport Hemingway Edition is the first in a series of boats designed with the family of Ernest Hemingway, one of this country's prominent writers of the 20th Century. Granddaughter Mina Hemingway recalls that Ernest Hemingway often took his sons fishing and often gave them this advice: "Never buy a boat because it's big or fancy. Always get one that's a good fishing vessel!" The Pro-Line 23 Sport Hemingway edition reflects his views of boating and fishing. It is built to be a reliable fishing craft that is trailerable, highly maneuverable, and comes with a Mercury Verado 300 hp outboard. The Hemingway package includes a custom Hemingway signature full-side wrap; custom T-Top with storage and two extra rod holders; flat black powdercoat bow rail, T-Top, seat frames, and side rails; aluminum helm seat with upgraded upholstery, leaning post, backrest, and rod holders; folding rear seat with upgraded upholstery; and AM/FM radio with four speakers and iPod control. Pro-Line says that its Hemingway edition package will be available on all Pro-Line models from 23 to 35 feet. IN THE NEWS In the News • GREAT LAKES .............................. 36 • FISHING .................................... 40 • MARINAS.................................. 42 • NATIONAL ................................. 44 • SAILING .................................... 46 visit: greatlakesboating.com on your tablet or smartphone GREAT LAKES BOATING • READ • Great Lakes Boating now o ers boaters a free weekly digital newsletter to keep them informed about news, issues, and events of the Great Lakes. GLB NEWSLETTER A L E RT !!! Visit www.greatlakesboating.com and register by entering your email address into the appropriate box. Sell your boat on our NEW redesigned Classified Section 6 GLB | Jan/Feb 14 PRO-LINE BOATS 1653 Whichards Beach Road Washington, NC 27889 800-344-1281 www.prolineboats.com EDITORIALS For all the talk about a rebound in the boating industry, there lurks an imminent crisis that can put a real damper on boating's recovery from the Recession of 2007-2009. We're not talking about the need to a ract more young people into boating. We're not pointing the nger at e orts to increase the number of minorities involved in boating. No, the crisis facing Great Lakes boating can be described in two words: decaying infrastructures. e United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), which has responsibility for maintaining 139 Great Lakes harbors, points out that many of them need dredging, a signi cant number need infrastructure repairs, and some of them are even in imminent danger of failure. USACE reports that federal harbor infrastructure maintenance is no longer a federal budget priority, which has produced a continuing deterioration. A LURKING CRISIS If this approach sounds like it lacks substance, that's correct. If the federal government doesn't maintain these harbors, who do we turn to for help? State and local o cials. State and municipal governments say they have neither the time, money, nor interest in assuming maintenance responsibility for these structures. e lack of answers to the decaying infrastructure problem prompts us to stand back, re ect, and ask who will help Great Lakes boaters and anglers, whose economic impact is more than $9 billion a year? No one! We're orphans with no parents to give us guidance and protection. Who will stand up and shout out our needs and desires, our importance to the region's economic growth and vitality, and now our risks of imminent danger? Boating needs a czar, someone who can stand up and represent us, and it's neither the federal government, state or local governments, the National Marine Manufacturing Association (NMMA), RBFF, BoatUS, even the Great Lake Boating Federation. So where do we go? If we are to nd a solution to the serious challenges posed by limited funding and decaying harbor structure, we need to look no further than ourselves. Every single recreational boater and sport shermen on the Great Lakes should become problem solvers. ey should not only be telling their elected o cials about the infrastructure problems, but they should also demand that action be taken now to resolve these lurking dangers. Recreational boating and sports shing are vital to the economic growth and vitality of the Great Lakes, but no one seems to believe this. Or, if they do believe this, they feel recreational boaters can be passed over because they have no one who can stand up and represent them. Don't be bullied by other special interest groups. Be a problem solver by ge ing involved and let our elected o cials know what needs to be done to resolve our pressing problems. If this wasn't bad enough, there are two other mitigating factors. e rst is recent low water levels that have accelerated deterioration in many harbor structures. e second is a serious lack of funding. e federal government no longer considers Great Lakes harbors a budget priority because of the lack of commercial use. USACE estimates that it would take $200 million a year to take care of these commercial ports and an additional $15 to $30 million to take care of the shallow dra /recreational harbors. e end result is that USACE is turning to state and local o cials. Together they face the challenging task of developing a sound strategy to ensure the continued protection of critical coastal infrastructure. e Corps is implementing a two-tiered approach to address this need. e rst tier will focus on prioritizing limited funding to critical commercial harbor infrastructure using risk-based methodology. e second approach will be to initiate a dialogue with state and local o cials to determine the best strategy for protecting vital harbor infrastructure that is no longer a budget priority. Agree? Disagree? Want to Comment? EMAIL YOUR THOUGHTS TO LET email@example.com 8 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 For many of us living along the Great Lakes, this past winter has been one long struggle. e record cold temperatures, record snow falls, piercing winds and few if any breaks from the winter doldrums have le most people in this region thankful for merely surviving this winter. If you've lived in or around the Great Lakes for any length of time, it's safe to say that the winter of 2013-2014 will be one you won't soon forget. Well, spring has arrived, and there are plenty of things to celebrate and be thankful for as we enter this time of the year. Here are just a few of them to recall as we prepare our boats for the upcoming boating season, Joysticks If there's ever been a technology that has been welcomed by every boater, from novice to experienced, it's the joystick. If anyone would have told boaters 10 years ago that they would be able to maneuver a boat forward, backward, diagonally, and rotate it in a circle by simply pu ing one hand on the joystick, they would have laughed at them. But thanks to the research and development teams at companies such as Volvo Penta, Sea Star Solutions, Mercury Marine and others, this dream has become a reality, and it has made boating life, especially the docking of vessels in close quarters, easier than ever. United States Power Squadrons (USPS) is year marks the 100th Anniversary of USPS, and it's a good time to congratulate them and tell them how much we appreciate what they do for recreational boaters. Over the past 100 years, power squadrons throughout the United States have dedicated themselves to educating and informing boaters and prospective boaters with the knowledge and skills they need to be safe boaters. Congratulations to all USPS members and their respective squadrons! HOO Y FOR SPRINGTIME Wis., and a dedicated crew of employees remains true to its founder's mission. Higher water levels Last year at this time, one of the most pressing problems facing boaters, anglers, and marinas was low water levels. Television newscasts, newspaper headlines, and even this magazine wrote stories about the impact of low water levels on the Great Lakes. In fact, lakes Michigan and Huron, which are considered one hydrological entity, reached record low levels in February of 2013. Today, those concerns are a thing of the past. e tide has turned, and the United States Army Corps of Engineers, which tracks water levels, reports that the above normal precipitation of this past winter will lead to near normal water levels. In fact, one of its projections forecasts average water levels by May of this year. Green grass, budding owers, and chirping birds are all signs that we've turned the corner and can now fully concentrate on warmer weather and the opportunity to take our vessels out on the water. Hooray for springtime! JOIN US The VOICE of 4.3 Million Boaters 75th Anniversary is year Mercury Marine, one of the world's leading engine manufacturers, celebrates 75 years of service to the boating community of the United States. Carl Kiekhaefer started Mercury Marine in 1939 in a converted barn in Cedarburg, Wis. He and a dedicated team of boating enthusiasts set out to create the best engine on the water. Today, the company is now owned by Brunswick Corp., its manufacturing facility is located in Fond du Lac, greatlakesboatingfederation.org greatlakesboating.com | 9 How to Get Ready For USPS Teaches Great Lakes Boaters The Boating Season reat Lakes boaters sometimes think they get the short end of the stick because they only have few months every year to really enjoy their boats. Instead of this negative thought, these boaters should consider themselves the lucky ones, and here's why. G Unlike year-round boaters, seasonal boaters have several months each year to get ready for the boating season. Instead of missing out on perfectly good boating weather to make upgrades or improvements to their boats or learn some new skills, Great Lakes boaters can take advantage of the time the foul weather affords them to install new equipment, fix up old equipment, and generally get everything ready for the next season. Now is the perfect time to get ready for the boating season. Make a list of what needs to get done and make it happen. If it's too cold to work on the boat now, write down what can be done once it warms up. Boaters need to make a plan now that will lead to a productive off-season so when the weather turns warmer they're not stressed out preparing to launch. What about preparing yourself and your crew for that next boat outings? Preparation is the key to safe and enjoyable boating adventures, and there are plenty of available resources to help boaters improve their knowledge and ability to safely and efficiently operate their boats. Boating is fun already, but having advanced skills can make it more fun! Ask yourself: Do you feel comfortable docking a boat in adverse wind conditions? What's your comfort level when crossing large bodies of water away from familiar landmarks or out of sight of land? Do you understand charts and navigational aids? All of the operating procedures of the latest VHF/DSC radios? All the bells and whistles of the new GPS? Boaters have many ways to improve their skills, and there is never a better time to do this than the off-season. Subscribe to boating publications and check out the adventure articles. Read the "How To" and maintenance articles. Take classes offered by the United States Power Squadrons (USPS) or the Coast Guard Auxiliary. Join a boating club and take advantage of their advanced courses. If a busy schedule interferes with attending regular classes, don't despair. The USPS and the BoatU.S. Foundation now offer an interactive educational experience completely online. Boaters can access new seminars and courses on their PCs, laptops, iPads, or tablets. This allows individuals to learn new boating skills in the comfort of their own homes and at their own pace. Two of the latest offerings from USPS are Partner in Command and Boating on Rivers Locks and Lakes, each costing $40. The first could be invaluable in the case of an emergency, the second while cruising the Great Lakes. Great Lakes boaters should take advantage of this off-season to get themselves and their boats ready for a better boating experience. They need to brush up on their skills now and be ready to hit the water right away when the season starts. They should also check out the course options at usps.org/edonline. Bob Brandenstein is National Educational Officer of the United States Power Squadrons. He lives in Pittsburgh and sails on Lake Erie. 10 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 PRO–LINE emingway Inspired 12 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 Anyone who has read the novels of Ernest Hemingway knows about his all consuming passion for fishing, and it's a trait that he handed down to his children and grandchildren. Born in Oak Park, Ill., a western suburb of Chicago, where his birthplace home still stands and is kept as a museum, Ernest Hemingway learned as a kid to boat and fish on Lake Michigan and Lake Walloon in Michigan, which is where he spent many a summer day growing up. While living in Key West, Fla., Hemingway wrote some of his greatest novels and fishing was an integral part of his daily life. He would do his writing in the morning, then call his friends and get on his fishing boat, and head out in the waters between the U.S. and Cuba for an afternoon of sportfishing. Hemingway's fondness for boating and fishing were recalled at the dedication of the Pro-Line Hemingway edition when two of his grandchildren, John and Mina Hemingway, did the unveiling. John was born in Miami, the son of Gregory Hemingway. He has been fishing the Gulf Stream off Bimini since he was a little kid and he still does today. Mina was the only child of Patrick Hemingway, and grew up in Pangani, Tanzania, a fishing village where her father kept his boat and taught her how to catch fish. "I remember rising at 4:00 a.m. so that my father and I could be out on the waters early catching tuna and other fish," Mina said. greatlakesboating.com | 13 From left to right: Baja Marine LLC Ceo Johnny Walker, Mina Hemingway, and John Hemingway at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show When her parents moved to the states and settled in Montana, Mina continued her love affair with the outdoors and fishing by learning how to fly-fish. "This was the 1970s, and not very many women knew how to fly-fish," Mina said. She added that her affection for fly-fishing prompted her to buy the Austin Angler in Austin, Texas in the 1980s, which she held onto for 15 years, and would travel around the world fishing with friends and clients. Mina is quite excited about the Pro-Line Hemingway Sport Boat saying that it represents the type of fishing boat her grandfather Ernest would use to go fishing—simple, high-quality, and reliable. She remembers that Ernest Hemingway was quite close to his sons, frequently took them out fishing, and often told them this adage: "Never buy a boat because it's big or fancy. Always get one that's a good fishing vessel!" The Pro-Line 23 Sport Hemingway edition thus carries on the Hemingway views of boating and fishing. It is built to be a reliable fishing craft inspired by pictures of Ernest Hemingway's prized fishing boat, Pilar, and his signature is even affixed to the side of the Pro-Line boat. "The Hemingways are all avid anglers and are extremely knowledgeable about the aesthetic and practical aspects of fishing." Specifications: LOA: ................................................................................23'0" Beam: .............................................................................8'0" Draft (full load): .............................................................1'5" Deadrise: ........................................................................20 degrees Fuel: ...............................................................................118 gals. said Johnny Walker, chief executive officer of Pro-Line's parent company Baja Marine LLC. While the 23 Sport was the only Hemingway Edition unveiled in 2013, the Hemingway edition package will be available on all Pro-Line models from 23 to 35 feet. It includes the following: * Custom Hemingway signature full-side wrap * Custom angled rigid T-Top with storage and two extra rod holders * Flat black powdercoat bow rail, T-Top, seat frames, and side rails * Aluminum helm seat with upgraded upholstery, leaning post, backrest, and rod holders * Folding rear seat with upgraded upholstery * AM/FM radio with four speakers and iPod control Pro-Line Boats said the 23 Sport is trailerable, highly maneuverable, and comes with a Mercury Verado 300 hp outboard, which takes the boat to speeds of 53 mph. As an upgrade to the Hemingway Edition package, Verado Tilt Control is available. www.PROLINEBOATS.com 14 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 SEAWAY YACHTS GREENLINE 40 YACHTS SEAWAY, BASED IN SLOVENIA AND ONE OF THE WORLD'S LEADING BOAT DEVELOPMENT COMPANIES, INTRODUCES THE NEXT GENERATION OF ITS ECO-FRIENDLY GREENLINE YACHTS, THE GREENLINE 40. The Greenline 40's upper deck layout merges the exterior cockpit with the yacht's salon area through fully opening cockpit doors and windows. Large panoramic windows flood the interior with natural light and offer superb views outside. The hardtop houses an array of integrated solar panels, shelters the side decks and extends over the aft cockpit for protection from sun and rain. The yacht's transom door drops down to a completely flat position, thus extending the cockpit while the yacht is at rest, as well as offering superb access to the water. Side doors on both port and starboard allow easy boarding. Large storage compartments are found under the cockpit sole, and an ergonomic and fully equipped galley is located aft, conveniently serving everyone on board either using the exterior cockpit area or lounging in the interior salon. Further forward, is the helm with full vessel instrumentation and standard GPS, chart plotter and VHF. The helm door to starboard allows easy entrance from and access to the side deck. The yacht sleeps four in master and guest staterooms. The master comes with two scissor beds that can be configured into a double bed and features natural light from all-around deck windows. Storage consists of two large hanging lockers on either side. The guest stateroom has two individual bunks that convert into a double bed and a dedicated hanging locker. The nearly 8 ft.-long salon sofa can easily be converted to provide additional sleeping space. The large head compartment comes with a shower compartment. The Greenline 40 comes with the proprietary Superdisplacement® hull, whose hydrodynamic features offer superb operating efficiency. Greenline uses weight-optimized construction and resin vacuum infusion technology to reach exacting dimensional and weight standards. 16 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 The yacht employs a proprietary hybrid propulsion system. While the yacht can be configured with conventional diesel engines, its hybrid propulsion system consists of two electric motors coupled to each of the yachts engines. Powered by two state-of-the-art lithium polymer battery packs, the electric motors propel the yacht at speeds of up to 6 knots and an approximate range of up to 20 miles, doing so in complete silence, zero emissions and zero cost. With a simple flip of a switch at the helm, the yacht can be operated by its Volvo D3 diesel engines, which come in 110, 170, and 220 hp. The shift/throttle controls are the same for electric as well as diesel mode. In its highest hp configuration, the Greenline 40 can reach speeds of up to 20 knots. While in diesel mode, each electric motor becomes a 7kW generator, charging their dedicated lithium polymer battery packs. It takes no more than three hours of running in diesel mode to top off the batteries. For more information please contact: GREENLINE NORTH AMERICA 411 S. Gay Street Knoxville, TN 37902 865-924-9321 EMAIL: firstname.lastname@example.com www.greenlineamerica.com greatlakesboating.com | 17 Perhaps no aspect of boating has undergone more major changes in the past few years than outboard engines. It's precisely for this reason that we bring boaters into the "World of Outboards." 18 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 The following paragraphs highlight some of the major advancements made by the major manufacturers of outboard engines, focusing specifically on that of joystick technologies. Other innovative design components include Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST™), Dual-Stage Induction, Lean Burn Control, 3-Way Cooling, and a 4-Front Corrosion Protection System. They deliver outstanding performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability. In 2012, Honda Marine introduced an electronic shift and throttle system for its popular V6 outboard engines. The system provides shift and throttle actuation within the current outboard cowling envelope for ease of use and an integrated design. Tailored to exacting performance requirements, the shift and throttle system can be installed on new and previously purchased BF200, BF225, and BF250 outboard engines. Both single- and multi-engine applications can seamlessly accommodate the system without additional installation kits or components. A compact control processor includes one processor per engine for system integrity and tachometer inputs for multi-engine synchronization. The shift actuator is shift mounted in the upper rigging cover with a threeposition, high shift load capacity. As for protecting the air and water, Honda Marine makes sure all its current production models meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) 3-Star standards, ensuring their availability and regulatory compliance in all 50 states. In addition, all of Honda's four-stroke outboards meet EPA's current emissions standards. w w w. m a r i n e . h o n d a . c o m HONDA MARINE For outboard engines, the Honda Marine name is synonymous with technological innovation and leadership. Honda introduced its first four-stroke outboard motor in 1964, and since that time has become a leader in four-stroke engine technology. Honda continually improves its marine engine line by incorporating technologies from its highly advanced automotive and racing heritage. For example, to maximize power output and durability, many Honda Marine outboards include exclusive technological features found in the company's most popular automobile engines, including the Honda Accord, Pilot, CR-V, and Civic. Engineers work to ensure that every Honda outboard model sets the standard for fuel efficiency and ease of operation. The performance of Honda Marine's four-stroke outboard engines is due to its exclusive technological features, such as the Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC®) technology that has been integrated into the BF250, BF225, BF150, and BF90 marine engines, providing a unique blend of power, torque, and efficiency at any speed. greatlakesboating.com | 19 MERCURY MARINE Mercury Marine's 75-year history has been one of technological innovation, the latest of which is Joystick Piloting for outboards. The intuitive design of the joystick lets even novice boaters maneuver a boat in any direction. The boater controls throttle, shifting, and steering with just one hand. The intuitive advancement in Joystick Piloting is the Skyhook Virtual Anchor, which uses a boat's GPS antenna to pinpoint its position and move the engines and drives independently to maintain the position and heading. Auto Heading and Waypoint Sequencing is an integrated autopilot system that allows operators to make precise course corrections by simply tapping the joystick. Operators can monitor all these features through the redesigned VesselView information display that shows up-to-the-minute data for fuel level and range, oil temperature and pressure, water depths, and additional engine, boat, and environmental readings. VesselView is available in 4- and 7-inch screens and is compatible with any SmartCraft-ready outboard, sterndrive, diesel or Mercury Racing engine 40 hp and above. VesselView also has an ECO-Screen feature that recommends engine trim and RPM settings to increase fuel economy by up to 20 percent. And, this year, VesselView offers Smart Tow and Troll Control for tow sport and fishing enthusiasts. Mercury Marine introduced digital throttle and shift in the early 2000s and has recently added digital throttle and shift on large tiller handle-operated outboards from 135 to 225 hp and more recently on outboards as low as 40 hp. Mercury's Pro XS series of OptiMax direct-injection two-stroke outboards represents "big things in small packages." With the fuel economy of a four-stroke and the power-to-weight ratio of a twostroke, Mercury brought direct-injection technology to outboards with the Pro XS. The Mercury 150 Pro XS even outran the standard 150 OptiMax by more than 2.5 mph while delivering ear-pinning holeshot and superior acceleration throughout the rpm band. The six-cylinder, 2.6 liter Verado, is the first supercharged, inter-cooled production four-stroke that is more than an outboard. It's a fully integrated propulsion system whose major structural components were specifically designed and built for quick acceleration with great torque and easy, low-cost operation and maintenance. w w w. m e r c u r y m a r i n e . c o m SUZUKI Suzuki's newest innovation for 2014 is the Suzuki Precision Maneuvering (SPM), fully integrated electronic throttle, shift, steering and joystick control for new boats equipped with Suzuki DF250AP and DF300AP "Next Generation" four-stroke outboard motors. SPM replaces conventional cable controls with electronic wiring connected to advanced shift and throttle actuators located under the 20 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 hood. Commands are transmitted from helm to engine in real time via the system's computer-based control system. SPM integrates Suzuki's dedicated throttle and shift control system with electronic power steering and joystick control systems developed by SeaStar Solutions. The advanced nature of both companies' systems has allowed Suzuki to integrate throttle, shift, and steering control seamlessly into its current digital control architecture. When underway, an advanced electronic helm provides directional input via an onboard control module to electronically control steering using Smart Cylinders for each motor. Throttle and shift are controlled separately via the binnacle. At low speeds, the joystick can be engaged, providing integrated throttle, shift and steering control to maneuver the boat in practically any direction. Using this new system, the skipper switches from steering wheel to joystick when maneuvering in close quarters, enjoying a marked improvement in handling when pulling into a crowded fuel dock, entering a tight slip, or driving onto a trailer. Anglers will appreciate the precise control when positioning a boat over a structure or when dropping anchor to hold position over "the spot." SPM has been engineered with redundant sensors and back-up systems to assure reliable operation. The result is a consumer experience that allows for confident, seamless control, whether maneuvering in close quarters or running at speed in challenging offshore conditions. Operators will appreciate the smooth, precise shifting and throttle controls, steering that can be customized to the boat's performance characteristics, and fingertip joystick control when pulling up to the dock or entering a tight slip. SPM is available on boats rigged with twin Suzuki DF250AP or DF300AP outboard motors and offers a significant improvement to the command and control available to its owners. It is now offered through select boat builders, and Suzuki expects to expand the new system to repower and aftermarket upgrades. w w w. s u z u k i m a r i n e . c o m VOLVO PENTA Volvo Penta introduced the first sterndrive at the New York National Boat Show in January 1959, and over the years, the company's engineers have refined marine sterndrive technology with innovations like counter-rotating Duoprops in 1982, followed by Joystick Docking in 2005, high performing, new generation gas engines like the V8-380 and V8-430 in 2012 and 2013, and 2013's awardwinning Glass Cockpit. Today's sterndrive vessels have cleaner, sleeker lines, along with better access to the swim platform. Sterndrives also make towing of water skiers and wakeboarders an easy task, not to mention fishing astern. And the drive unit can be tilted upward for towing and storage out of the water. In the last couple of years, Volvo Penta has introduced a new lineup of gas engines for sterndrives. These new V8s are based on the latest lightweight automotive engine blocks and feature Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology, which optimizes torque at low RPMs while maximizing performance at high RPMs. The result is faster acceleration, higher top speed, and smoother response in the mid-range. In short, these engines are more than 20 percent more fuel efficient than their predecessors, meet all U.S. EPA emission requirements, and yet still deliver top performance. Volvo Penta's latest innovation is the new Glass Cockpit, which won the 2013 IBEX & METS Innovation Award. It is a fully integrated control and monitoring system that gathers all operator information, including navigation, engines, warnings, alarms and other data, and displays them on customizable multi-function flat-screen displays at the helm station. It makes operating a boat more like driving a modern car, and brings engine control and monitoring into the total boat-control dashboard. Volvo Penta's new V8s with Electronic Vessel Controls (EVC), joystick steering, and the Glass Cockpit helm station fulfill its greatlakesboating.com | 21 mission of offering more fun on the water, while drastically reducing emissions into the air. Perhaps the most revolutionary innovation from Volvo Penta is its joystick, which transforms operator stress and strain into easy intuitive movements. Just nudge the joystick, and the boat goes backward, forward, sideways, diagonally, and rotationally. The end result is that operators can easily maneuver their boats into the tightest slips without a bow thruster. w w w.v o l v o p e n t a . c o m / u s features a new electronic steering system, throttle and shifting controls, electronic key system, and a joystick controller. All the boat control devices are connected, eliminating the need for bow thrusters. Operators simply move the joystick in the direction they'd like the boat to go. A light push or twist of the joystick delivers a slower-paced movement with minimal thrust. More pressure gets translated into greater thrust and directional movement. With the Helm Master Electronic Key Switch, YAMAHA MARINE GROUP For 2014, Yamaha Marine Group introduces two new outboards and a fully integrated control system. The F115 is now the lightest outboard in the 115 horsepower fourstroke class, and at 377 pounds, the new F115B is 24 pounds lighter than the previous generation (F115LA). The F115's all-new powerhead provides increased bore and stroke. The outboard's double-overhead cam (DOHC) four-cylinder design now has larger intake and exhaust valves for easier breathing, more power and better midrange torque. The new F175 outboard joins the V MAX SHO® 150 and F200 as engines based on Yamaha's new 2.8-liter in-line four-cylinder platform, which won the IBEX Innovation Award for 2013. ® operators swipe their keyless fob, press ignition and press start, to start or stop one or all of the outboards. The Helm Master binnacle control features smart functionality. For example, in the case of a triple engine setup, boaters can operate the center engine by pressing the Center Engine button for situations like no-wake zones or trolling. Trim Assist allows automation of the engine trim for acceleration/ deceleration. Up to five trim positions can be set that correlate with specific engine speeds. Once the boat reaches those speeds, it will trim to preferred angles. Speed control allows boaters to instantly hold a desired speed then adjust RPMs up 15 percent or down 10 percent with the touch of a button. Helm Master is available on select new twin- and triple-engine models from participating boat manufacturers. w w w.y a m a h a o u t b o a r d s . c o m The F175's four-cylinder 16-valve dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) powerhead breathes easily and responds quickly, with a sophisticated valve train design. With electrical output of 50 amps, the F175 provides plenty of electrical power. Yamaha's Helm Master™ is a fully integrated boat control system for its outboard powered boats in twin- or triple-engine configuration. It 22 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 well being of harbors/marinas on the Great Lakes. A general overview of the region's marinas and harbors reveals a troubling problem: Our marina infrastructures are decaying, crumbling, and no one is doing anything about it. BY THE NUMBERS When it comes to describing the problems currently facing Great Lakes harbors and marinas, it is virtually impossible to obtain an accurate assessment, but a look at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), which has responsibility for maintaining the safe operation of 139 harbors on the five Great Lakes, serves as a good barometer. USACE says 79 of these harbors are considered shallow draft recreational harbors and approximately 30 of them face serious problems. Of these 30 harbors, the biggest problem is dredging. Mike O'Bryan, the chief engineer in charge of the Great Lakes Districts for USACE, said there is a current backlog of harbors that need dredging. He adds that if current funding levels for USACE Great Lakes Districts remain in place, the backlog at Great Lakes harbors will rise to more than 23 million cubic yards by 2017. Upkeep and maintenance are essential to the BY JEROME A. KONCEL 24 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 While acknowledging that the Great Lakes Navigation System (GLNS) is a "national treasure," USACE also believes that "significant investments are needed to effectively and efficiently operate the GLNS for the benefit of the Great Lakes region and the nation." How much exactly? It is estimated that $200 million is needed to fully fund commercial projects, and another $15 million for dredging and infrastructure repairs of the shallow draft recreational harbors. It should be noted that recreational boating and sportfishing are major stakeholders on the Great Lakes. We estimate that there are more 4.2 million recreational boaters on the Great Lakes, with an annual economic impact on the area of more than $9 billion. Nicki Polan, executive director of the Michigan Boating Industries Association, believes these figures understate the true value of recreational boating and sportfishing. She estimates that the combined annual economic impact of recreational boating and sportfishing on her state alone is close to $14 billion a year. No matter which figures one chooses to believe, it is safe to say that recreational boating and sportfishing on the Great Lakes are big businesses. For some towns, however, the fact that USACE has not dredged their harbors for years poses serious problems that threaten their livelihoods. When asked why USACE has not dredged all the harbors under its wings, O'Bryan cites a lack of funds. He said that for the last 10 years, Congress has not given USACE the funds needed to complete their responsibilities, so USACE has had to set priorities with constrained budgets. As we enter 2014, marinas and municipalities on the Great Lakes are struggling with decaying infrastructures. The worst-case scenario finds marinas and harbors where their docks are unusable because many of the passageways leading to the Great Lakes are impassable, and several of the breakwaters installed to protect the marinas from damaging waves and storms are crumbling. In short, aging infrastructures, persistent low water levels, and constrained budgets pose major problems for the Great Lakes harbors. Leland Harbor after dredging Leland Harbor before dredging Dzuba tells USACE the harbor is a beacon for tourists and a subsistence vehicle for the town's other businesses, including restaurants and retail stores. USACE said the harbor needs annual maintenance dredging, but noted that it is just another "unbudgeted dredging project." There are two alternatives readily available to remedy the situation: the city could raise funds and have USACE do the dredging or it could get its own dredging permit from USACE and the state and do the work itself. Neither of these are feasible. "With only 2,000 residents, we can't afford to buy it [the harbor] back because we'd lose any federal support, and we can't create a special assessment taxing district to raise funds," said Dzuba. As a result, Dzuba searches for other alternatives. Last year, for instance, he depended on emergency funds from the state to dredge the harbor. The previous year, he raided his "war chest of savings," for future maintenance projects, and even begged for money from local businesses, the local Indian tribe, and even boaters. greatlakesboating.com | 25 THE HARBORS The most pressing problem facing the small recreational harbors along the coastlines of the Great Lakes is dredging. For a significant number of them, boating and tourism is their major industry. So, when sand accumulation blocks off their passageways to the Great Lakes, they are suffering. Leland, Mich., is a good example of such a harbor town. Russell Dzuba, the harbormaster, said Leland Township Harbor's infrastructure is OK. Its breakwater is old, but functional. Its docks were recently renovated. Its most pressing problem is dredging to remove about 15,000 cu.yds. of sand that builds up at the harbor entrance over the winter. As part of its agreement with USACE, Leland Township Harbor cannot lease slips to pay for this, meaning that its 61 slips and 800 lineal feet of broadside mooring space can only be used for transient boaters. What are the consequences of not dredging? "If we're not dredged by the end of June, we're facing a lost season," Dzuba said. "Boaters will pass us by and head to another harbor because they can't get into our sand-clogged harbor." When the harbor was built in 1965, no one knew that it would cost close to $200,000 to dredge the harbor in 2014, Dzuba said. The first thing WRRDA does is increase funding for the Great Lakes by treating the Great Lakes as an integrated navigation and recreation system instead of individual harbors. It recognizes that the Great Lakes plays a vital role in the success of the region's and the nation's economy, so money must be spent to maintain its safe and efficient operation. The second thing WRRDA does is not only increase funds for 2014, PORT WASHINGTON MARINA Port Washington Marina, Port Washington, Wis., suffers from another problem--a crumbling breakwater. Dennis Cherny, harbormaster, said the breakwall is so bad that USACE put up a sign prohibiting individuals from walking on it. "It's so bad that in certain spots there are holes where water rushes right through the breakwall," said Cherny. His efforts to have USACE repair the breakwater have met the same fate as Dzuba's for dredging. The Corps says that the breakwater is in bad shape, probably needs to be replaced, but it does not have the funds to do this. Cherny said the marina can't go on indefinitely without a usable breakwall, so he's hired a consulting company noted for getting grant money to help out. but it also keeps the funding up through 2020. "We would only need about $20 million a year for 10 years to fully dredge our harbors on the Great Lakes and $20 million to maintain our infrastructures," said May. He adds that this bill would do the job. While WRRDA holds many promises for the harbors, May worries if the president will put this in his FY 2015 budget and if Congress will appropriate funds to implement it. May and others assert that this latter problem could be easily taken care of through the existing Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF), started by President Reagan in 1984 as a tax on the cargo carried by ships using U.S. ports and harbors. "Each year, HMTF brings in between $1.5 and $1.7 billion, but only spends about half that amount on the safe navigation of harbors," said May. What happens to the remainder? "It remains in HMTF, but this money is a 'general fund,' meaning that it can be used for any activity, such as balancing the federal budget," said May. The recent WRRDA legislation addresses the HMTF issue by saying that 10 percent of its funds each year must be set aside for maintaining Great Lakes harbors and clearing the backlog of needed dredging projects. Moreover, the amount set aside will increase each year until 2020, when the amount coming in matches the amount going out, similar to the Highway Trust Fund, which uses fuel taxes solely for highway purposes. SMALL HARBORS COALITION Because so many small recreational harbors in Wisconsin and Michigan face similar dredging and infrastructure problems, the Great Lakes Small Harbors Coalition was formed in 2008. Its mission is to bring the harbor maintenance issues to Washington so as to secure more funding for the dredging of small harbors. Chuck May, a retiree, property owner, and fisherman on Portage Lake, is the group's president pro-tem. He cites his harbor (Portage) as an example of what's wrong. "USACE has deemed our harbor 'Code Red,' meaning it's in imminent danger of failure," said May. "We're not the only marina in this position, so we have to do something about it." May and his organization see the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA), passed by both the House and Senate in 2013, as a critical resource. At press time, conferees from both bodies were in conference to determine the final wording, but May believes it offers some hopeful signs for Great Lakes harbors. THE FUTURE If USACE does not dredge harbors; if breakwaters built on wood pilings before WWI are not replaced soon; if piers damaged by winter ice storms and summer rains are not repaired and/or replaced, the consequences could be calamitous. Coastal towns such as Portage, Arcadia, Pentwater, and Onekama on the northern part of Michigan's lower peninsula will close without dredging. Is there anything boaters and anglers can do to solve this problem? Yes! Contact your elected representatives, your senators and tell them about the sorry state of dredging and infrastructure repairs on the Great Lakes and how this has to change. Urge them to enact legislation that won't shortchange our region, so that we can report in the near future that recreational harbors are being dredged, crumbling breakwaters are being replaced, and hope is replacing despair. 26 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 THE pristine blue waters of our nation's largest freshwater resource—the Great Lakes—are being threatened by a danger that is far smaller than a penny, but don't let its size fool you—the danger is far greater than most recreational boaters and sportsfishermen ever imagined. This is not conjecture, but rather scientific fact, and the facts reveal that microplastic particles are infiltrating the Great Lakes and its resident food web, just as they do within the world's oceans. By Sherri A. Mason, Ph.D. Since the 'discovery' of an accumulation of plastics in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre in 1999 and recent events such as the 2011 Japanese tsunami, marine debris has received increased attention and public awareness. To date, however, research and even public media campaigns have focused on oceanic systems. Globally, the saltwater environs of our oceans do dominate the earth's surface, but that water cycles through freshwater systems as it makes its way from the sky to the sea, accumulating trash along the way. A United Nations report suggests that 80 percent of oceanic debris comes from land, and it is perpetually postulated that litter makes its way to the oceans by way of freshwater systems. CURRENT RESEARCH Despite the expectation that oceanic debris is likely transported through a freshwater system, very little research with regard to marine debris has focused on these freshwater systems, but that is starting to change. Beginning in the summer of 2012, a team of scientists has been conducting a survey of plastic pollution within the world's largest freshwater ecosystem, right here in our own backyard—the Laurentian Great Lakes. 28 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 plastic acts s u rrou nding waters. per square mile, having even higher counts in Lake Ontario is unsettling at best. To put these counts into perspective, aside from one published number taken in the North Atlantic Ocean, these counts within the Great Lakes are among the largest ever recorded anywhere in the world! Despite the magnitude of the plastic particle counts, the most surprising result of these research findings isn't the presence or amount of plastic, but rather the size of the plastic. Nearly 80 percent of the plastic particles found are between a third and one millimeter in diameter: tiny. per square mile increased from Lake Superior to Lake Huron to Lake Erie, following the flow of the water, with 90 percent of the total plastic found (in this expedition) being in Lake Erie. This finding was in-line with expectations because Lake Erie not only receives contributions from the people who live within its watershed, but also that which flows into it from the upper Great Lakes. With this ou t of its toxic chemicals to adsorb As part of the open-water survey that was undertaken in July 2012, a total of 21 samples were collected in three of the five Great Lakes (Superior, Huron, and Erie). A rough estimate of the surveyed samples revealed that the number of plastic particles PLASTIC DANGERS Although the minute size of the plastic may, at first, seem to diminish its importance, the opposite is true. These microplastics, as they are called, are so small they can be ingested by organisms at the very base of the food chain, that is, zooplankton. From there, research is now showing that they can and do migrate and bioaccumulate up the food chain. Preliminary investigations of Great Lakes fish are showing evidence of plastic ingestion and accumulation. A more detailed review of the microplastics shows that it isn't the plastic itself that is of greatest concern, it's the fact that plastic acts to adsorb toxic chemicals out of its surrounding waters. The Great Lakes have a well-known history of being harbingers of toxic chemicals and although the concentrations of these persistent, bioaccumulative chemicals have been decreasing over the last 40-50 years (due to increased awareness and increased legislation), plastics have been shown to adsorb chemicals onto their surface in concentrations up to a million times greater than the surrounding water. greatlakesboating.com | 29 Photo by Jim Bodenstab in mind, one might expect Lake Ontario's counts to be even higher than Lake Erie and preliminary data taken during the summer of 2013 does appear to support this expectation. Given that the two largest samples obtained in 2012 in Lake Erie had plastic particle counts on the order of one million plastic particles IO N IS VE RY RE AL PL AS TIC PO LL UT DID YOU KNOW that cigarette f ilters are made of plastic ? Dispose of them as trash Forego that cheap disposable Styrofoam™ cooler in favor of a reusable one. Shake the habit of using plastic bags. Did you know that cigarette filters are made of plastic? Dispose of them as trash, and do not flick them into the water or out the car window and onto the ground. Look at the ingredients in your face washes and toothpastes for 'polyethylene' or 'polypropylene' as these are the most common plastics for the manufacture of exfoliating microbeads that make their way through the wastewater treatment process and into our water. In short, be aware of all the plastic that you use in a day and think about ways to reduce it. The best way to keep plastics out of our lakes and waterways is by stopping the use of plastic at its source. Moreover, we can also help by picking up litter we see, whether it's on the shore or in the water. Those plastic bottles that sit on the side of the road will get run-over and broken into fragments. These small particles will then find their way down the storm drain and into our lakes, breaking into smaller and smaller fragments along the way, but never disappearing. That plastic bag caught in a tree will shred into the plastic films that are found by the scientists netting plastics in the Great Lakes. And the list goes on and on. All of the plastic litter found on our streets, trees, and beaches; all of the things lost, dropped, or unintentionally left behind; all of these are the plastic sources that slowly but ever so constantly make their way into the majestic waters that so many of us call home. While the threat of plastic pollution is very real, it's also very preventable. The first step is awareness, and the next step is action. Let's all do our part to change the tides of Great Lakes plastic pollution. Based on these research findings, it appears that even minute concentrations of these toxic chemicals in the water can lead to substantial concentrations on resident plastic particles. Furthermore the microplastics, which are so prominent in the Great Lakes, have a greater surface area for adsorption of these chemicals. Once consumed, these chemicals desorb from the plastic surface and into the ingesting organism, which can have a significant impact on its health (though not necessarily leading immediately to death). OUR RESPONSE What do these findings mean for Great Lakes boaters and fishermen? In simple terms, the plastic pollution of the Great Lakes may be providing an additional means for chemicals to move into and bioaccumulate up the food web, which is not good news for the sports fishing industry. This fact has not been lost on the residents and government officials from the Great Lakes region. Recently the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Cities Initiative, a bi-national coalition of mayors and other local officials that works actively with federal, state, and provincial governments to advance the protection and restoration of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River, asked regulators and industry for their commitment to take action on removing microplastics from personal care products and cleaning up the microplastics already in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence. They have gotten a positive response from most responders. While this is an impressive first step, it is important to remember that the plastic found in our waters come from us. We are the problem, which means we are also the solution. Let's take ownership of the Great Lakes and work collectively to protect them. Plastics won't be in our waters if we stop them from getting there in the first place. Here are some concrete examples of what everyone can do to stop the spread of plastics in the Great Lakes. 30 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 Sherri A. Mason, Ph. D., is Associate Professor of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences Program Coordinator at the State University of New York-Fredonia. Jessica J. MAJCHROWSKI, USACE, Chicago District To the chagrin of many interested observers, the report did not advocate one solution for Eight for Preventing Options in the solving the ANS problem. Instead, it offered eight alternatives that decision makers (i.e., the U.S. Congress) could ponder, including one that would cost more than $18 billion and take 25 years to complete. Great Lakes ANS Background So why did USACE focus on the Chicago Area Waterways (CAWS), the Mississippi River, and Lake Michigan Basins? Because the network of rivers and canals in and near Chicago with five direct links between the two giant drainage basins are considered the likeliest route by which Asian carp and other ANS could reach the Great Lakes, i.e., Lake Michigan. While USACE identified 13 ANS that A –By Jerome A. Koncel lthough nearly everybody believes that preventing threaten the Great Lakes by moving through these aquatic pathways, the Asian carp and other aquatic nuisance species public and our elected officials in Washington, (ANS) from entering the Great Lakes is not only a D.C. are mainly concerned with bighead and silver carp. The CAWS are connected to the Illinois laudable goal, but one that needs to be achieved as River, wherein a large population of Asian carp has soon as possible, there is far from consensus on been found. Moreover, scientists have detected Asian carp environmental DNA in dozens of water samples past the best way to make this happen. That's why the barrier, although whether they came from live fish remains in there was a lot of excitement surrounding dispute. It is widely recognized that Asian carp are "an impending the release of Great Lakes Mississippi ecological disaster" for the Great Lakes. River Interbasin Study Report In explaining how it came up with this report, USACE said Congress told it to review existing technologies and propose alternatives to prevent ANS (GLMRIS), prepared by the U.S. from entering into the Great Lakes. As a result, USACE offered eight separate Army Corps of Engineers alternatives, some of which have been tried, others of which have been rejected by federal courts, and still others that are considered "pie in the sky" because of the amount (USACE) and delivered to of money needed to build them ($25 billion) and the length of time needed to complete them Congress on Jan. 6. (18 years). Of the eight alternatives, two would require hydrological separation, meaning they would place dams in the CAWS to seal off Lake Michigan from the carp-infested Mississippi River watershed. As might be expected, states that have large businesses that depend on CAWS, i.e., Illinois, Indiana, and local shipping interests, oppose such a proposal. On the other side are several Great Lakes environmental groups as well as several states. These groups originally asked USACE to adopt the physical separation alternative instead of the electric barrier operation that is currently in place. When USACE chose the former alternative, these two groups sued USACE in federal court to adopt the hydrological separation approach. They were unsuccessful. 32 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 Among the remaining six proposals are alternatives that range from not doing anything to the current electric barrier system to using different mixtures of equipment and technology, including construction of additional electric fish barriers and a new type of navigational lock that would treat water to remove floating plants and fish as vessels move through the system. separation of the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal from Lake Michigan. This would require $18 billion to fund, but "is the only effective option," Polan said. "Time is of the essence for we find ourselves in an extremely dire situation with the livelihood of our fisheries, waters, economy, and way of life at risk," said Jim Coburn MBIA Board Chairman. "The cost of inaction would be devastating to the ecosystem and would change the economic and social dynamics of the Great Lakes." The Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources gave this comment: "We recognize the devastating impact the Asian carp's presence could have on water quality, sportfishing, and the delicate ecosystem of the Great Lakes, and maintain a 'zero-tolerance' policy towards invasive species. Responses When it comes to the eight alternatives in the GLMRIS Report, the public and stakeholders offered differing viewpoints. Ned Dikmen, chairman of the Great Lakes Boating Federation (GLBF) and publisher of this magazine, said that recreational boaters and sportfishermen realize the dangers ANS pose to the marine ecosystem, local fisheries, and even their personal wellbeing from Asian carp jumping out of the water and on to their boats. So, GLBF is very much in favor of preventing ANS from reaching the Great Lakes through aquatic pathways. "The devastation caused by ANS on Great Lakes boating and fishing can be significant," Dikmen said. At the same time, Dikmen asserts that most of the alternatives proposed in the report could have negative impacts on the lives of recreational boaters and anglers. For nearly 100 hard-core boaters who seek each summer to complete the "Great American Loop" stretching from the St. Lawrence River through the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River and then down to New Orleans and back to the St. Lawrence as their dream legacy, Dikmen points out that the hydrological separation alternative will forever deny them this great accomplishment. For recreational boaters and sportfishermen on the Great Lakes, the need to prevent ANS, particularly the Asian carp, from invading the Great Lakes trumps any personal sacrifices they may have to make in pursuing their recreational activities. "If it's determined the best way to rid the Great Lakes of ANS is through hydrological separation, boaters will adapt to the decision. They will not stop boating. They will not stop fishing. They will find new fishing spots, new places to launch their boats, and new places to store their vessels in the wintertime," Dikmen said. Nicki Polan, executive director of the Michigan Boating Industries Association, urges the U.S. Congressional leaders who are receiving the GLMRIS Report to choose the hydrological "We recognize further the importance of commercial shipping on the Great Lakes and Illinois waterways, a vital means of transporting agricultural products, minerals and raw materials through America's Heartland. "Any solution must balance the need to keep invasive species out of Lake Michigan with flood protection and unimpeded shipping lanes. This is a monumental decision in which all levels of government and the public should participate, and it will be up to Congress to ultimately decide." Tom Allegretti, president and CEO of the American Waterways Operators Association, which represents commercial cargo carriers that would be most at risk if either of the two T. Lawrence, Great Lakes Fishery Commission greatlakesboating.com | 33 hydrological separation alternatives were chosen, said that construction of a physical barrier that would separate Lake Michigan from the Mississippi River basin "is not economically feasible nor totally effective at eliminating the spread of invasive species, including the Asian carp." The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative said a greater sense of urgency is of the essence in reaching decisions on short-, mid-, and long-terms actions to stop Asian carp from reaching Lake Michigan through the CAWS. The group proposed that a forum and process for reaching these decisions is needed to make sure that timely action is taken. "The threat of Asian carp reaching Lake Michigan continues, and our concern has increased because of questions about the effectiveness of electric barriers used to stop the carp The TH REAT of ASIAN CARP in the CAWS." The Cities Initiative believes that the information provided in GLMRIS and its own 2012 report entitled, "Restoring the Natural Divide," point to physical separation as the most effective long-term solution for keeping Asian carp from reaching Lake Michigan through the CAWS. It should be the focus of the dialogue for reaching consensus on a solution, and resolving the key issues concerning transportation, water quality, and flood control. Other organizations such as the International Joint Commission, the Great Lakes Water Carriers Association, and the Asian Carp Regional Coordinating Dan O'Keefe, Michigan Sea Grant reaching Lake Michigan continues Committee had no comment on the report. Overview Some people have criticized the GLMRIS report for describing a variety of alternative options to control ANS, instead of advocating one. Others point out that USACE has not acted fast enough to effectively deal with the problem (it's been more than five years since the call was made for such a plan). Still others M ic hi ga said the plan is inadequate because it does not have a n Se timetable for reaching a decision on this matter. a G ra nt At present, GLMRIS is in the hands of Congress. The continued input on the subject from interested stakeholders illustrates the different and sometimes contradictory opinions expressed by the interested parties. This makes reaching agreement, or at least a consensus, on the best way to stop the spread of ANS into the Great Lakes seem almost impossible. Moreover, the two most critical criteria in this matter—time and money—have not been adequately dealt with in the study. Finally, the goal of each alternative is to prevent the spread of 13 ANS into the Great Lakes, but there's no guarantee that any of them would prevent ANS from entering the Great Lakes. Two final notes: the needs and desires of recreational boaters and sportfishermen have not been adequately addressed in this report. The economic impact of the alternatives offered in the GLMRIS Report on recreational and commercial boating range from negligible to severe. The more important question is how will recreational boaters and sportfishermen react to the alternative selected by their elected respresentatives? How WILL recreationa boaters and l sportfishermen react ? And last but not least, there's still time for the public to offer their input on the GLMRIS Report via electronic submittal through the GLMRIS Web site (www.glmris.anl.gov), mail and hand-delivery. Comments will be accepted through March 31, 2014. All mail and hand-delivered comments should be sent to: U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, CHICAGO DISTRICT. 231 S. LASALLE ST., SUITE 1500 ATTN: GLMRIS COMMENTS, DAVE WETHINGTON, CHICAGO, IL 60604 34 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 1 T HERE'S A LOT TO BE SAID FOR OWNING SMALL RUNABOUTS, CENTER CONSOLES OR BOW RIDERS. WHILE THEY ARE AFFORDABLE, EASY TO STORE, AND CAN KEEP EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY HAPPY, THEY HAVE THEIR LIMITS, ESPECIALLY, IF YOU WANT TO VENTURE INTO COASTAL WATERS AND BIG LAKES. But these journeys can still be done with the right 10 pieces of equipment. Here's what Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS) recommends should be aboard every boat 20 feet or smaller: Paddles: If the engine quits, paddles can be used for propulsion. Keep the outboard or sterndrive down for a rudder, and if there's a buddy or spouse aboard, decent headway can be made. A T-handle paddle, the kind used for whitewater canoeing, provides a great grip. The aluminum shaft is light and strong, as is the high-impact plastic blade. Those materials don't mind sitting out in the weather, either. Make sure they're at least five feet long. Dry box: Small boats typically lack dry storage. Large, plastic marine dry boxes with lids with O-rings seal out moisture and an extra-deep model can hold the radio, smartphone, flashlight, GPS, and more, leaving them dry when they are needed. Anchors and line: Some small-boat manufacturers barely leave space for a launch hook. But what happens if the engine quits, or if a boater wants to anchor overnight in a quiet cove? Stowing two anchors with different line lengths provides options. A chain between line and anchor also helps. And don't forget a few dock lines. Wearable life jacket: Luckily, life jacket design has evolved and Type III vest-style models are comfortable to wear all day. Plenty of smallboat owners wear inflatable jackets. They're more buoyant, but more costly and require some care. The best choice is any life jacket that will always be worn. Compatible power source for electronics: When a boater's cell phone runs out of juice during a nautical emergency, that's a crisis. The same goes for a flashlight, handheld GPS unit, and VHF radio. Get devices that run on the same power source, such as AA batteries, and stow an extra sealed pack of batteries in the dry box. Manual bailer: Small, closed-deck boats rely on a single, submersible pump to keep the bilge dry. But if that pump fails, or seawater comes over the gunwales or stern, or there's heavy rain, that's a problem. Keeping a hand-operated bilge pump aboard is cheap insurance. Air Horn: The U.S. Coast Guard says small boats must have a "sound-producing device" for distress signaling, capable of a foursecond blast that's audible one quarter-mile away. While a plastic whistle or an installed electric horn may meet the letter of the law, a better choice is a handheld, gas-powered air horn that can be heard at much greater distances. Spare prop and fix-it tools: A submerged ledge or log can whop a prop and cripple a boat. Having a spare prop and the right wrench is common advice, but changing a mangled wheel while afloat is easier said than done. Dents in aluminum props can be put back into serviceable shape, at least enough to get home. Beefy, vice-gripstyle locking pliers and slip-joint pliers are essential for this repair. Have a charging source: Cell phones don't run on AA batteries. That's why a marine rated 12-volt receptacle with a weatherproof cap is needed. Mount it away from spray and rain, and don't forget the charging cords for other electronics. Paper chart in plastic cover: Even a waterproof chart is hard to manage underway in an open boat. But by putting it in a clear, plastic holder, wind and water won't matter. It will always be ready when needed. Holders can be purchased or one can be made with clear plastic from a hardware store and duct tape. greatlakesboating.com | 35 REPORT SAYS LIMITED FOOD SUPPLY AFFECTS GREAT LAKES ECOSYSTEMS Significant declines in the food resources that feed lake organisms are likely causing significant changes in the Great Lakes ecosystems, according to a new U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) study. USGS scientists and research partners found that while water clarity has been increasing in a majority of the Great Lakes since 1998, phytoplankton (the microscopic water organisms that feed all other animals), native invertebrates, and prey fish have been declining. These food web changes fundamentally affect the ecosystem's resources and are likely caused by decreasing levels of lake nutrients and growing numbers of invasive species. The study found that inputs of phosphorus—the nutrient that limits phytoplankton growth—have declined in the Great Lakes since 1972, the year when the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement was signed. In addition, growing numbers of invasive species, such as zebra and Great Lakes quagga mussels, have entered the lakes causing phosphorus levels to decline further over the last decade. As a result of this drop in phosphorous, some lakes have been filtering out phytoplankton and the nutrients therein. Researchers said these decreases in nutrients have the potential to affect the smallest organisms up to the top predators. In Lake Huron, for example, plankton and fish appear to be controlled by declining nutrients or food. Because the Great Lakes provide valuable ecosystem services, the U.S. Congress passed the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) in 2010 to restore the Great Lakes and rid it of 43 Areas of Concern. Over the last four years, GLRI has invested more than $1 billion in these efforts. http://bioscience.oxfordjournals.org/content/64/1/26 RESTORING LAKE ERIE'S LARGEST WETLAND conservancy began building underwater passages to reconnect Erie Marsh back to the lake and return fish to the wetlands. This should be finished this summer, said May. When the conservancy opened its first passageway, fish started using it on day one, May said. In phase two of the restoration project, the conservancy will begin reconditioning some of A five-year program is underway to restore Lake Erie's largest coastal wetlands, according to a Jan. 6, article in Great Lakes Echo. The four-phase program would clean Erie Marsh, which contains 2,217 acres of wetland and is home to 65 species of fish and 300 species of migratory birds, according to the Nature Conservancy, the organization that is undertaking the cleanup of the marsh, which is located in southeast Michigan near the Ohio border. Dikes built more than 50 years ago to control water flowing into the wetlands cut the marsh off from the lake, said Chris May, the conservancy's program director in Michigan. Last June, the Jason Whalen the dikes that have been in place since the 1940s, restoring 220 acres of wetlands on Erie Marsh. The restoration is supported by $2.6 million in funds from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The final two phases of the project call for the construction of new dikes and the restoration of others to further reconnect the wetlands to the lake and allow the conservancy to better control water. These projects are currently unfunded, but May is confident they will be funded as money becomes available. 36 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 CONGRESS PASSES SPENDING BILL THAT INCLUDES $300 MILLION FOR GLRI On Jan. 13, 2014, the U.S. Congress passed an Omnibus Spending Bill of more than $1 trillion that includes $300 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). The program received $285 million in fiscal year 2013. GLRI supports efforts to clean up toxic pollution, restore fish and wildlife habitat, fight invasive species, and reduce runoff from cities and farms. Since the bill was passed in 2010, GLRI has produced more than 100 success stories in the Great Lakes. Readers interested in learning more about the GLRI's success stories should visit the Healthy Lakes Coalition's website at: http://healthylakes.org/successes/restoration-success-stories. According to the Healthy Lakes Coalition, the Great Lakes provide drinking water to more than 30 million people. More than 1.5 million U.S. jobs are directly connected to the Great Lakes, generating $62 billion in yearly wages. And, every $1 invested in Great Lakes restoration projects generates at least $2 of economic benefit. WISCONSIN DNR DISMISSES CONTROVERSIAL OIL TERMINAL PERMIT APPLICATION A proposal to rehabilitate a loading dock in Superior, Wis., considered the first step in a process to ship tar sands oil across Lake Superior, was dealt a setback when the Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) dismissed the application for several reasons. Local residents had opposed the rehabilitation in public meetings on the project. In rejecting the application from Elkhorn Industries, the DNR has ordered a comprehensive Environmental Assessment of the entire dock project, something many local residents had called for at a public information hearing. In addition, it pointed out that the company couldn't legally apply for a permit because it didn't own all of the waterfront property. In its rejection letter, DNR said that Elkhorn Industries may re-apply for a building permit once the Environmental Assessment has been completed. The letter also stated that public comments against the proposal played a role in its decision and added that the agency "will need significantly more information about the [company's] plans and activities proposed for the site." MONROE BOAT CLUB OFFERS YOUTH LEARNING SERIES The Monroe Boat Club, Monroe, Mich., a non profit members-operated club with direct access to Lake Erie, has created an educational partnership with the local public school system and will begin offering classes to the youth of the Monroe area beginning in mid-March. The Program Series begins on March 15-16 with a Water Safety/ Courtesy of Floral City Images/Da ve Grassley On May 17 and 18, local law enforcement officers from the Monroe County Sheriff's Dept. and the Monroe City Police Dept. will present the full Boaters Safety Certification program. Classes will rotate between the Monroe Boat Club and the adjacent Knabusch Learning Center. The final class will be a Fishing Derby that will take place June 7-8 at the Knabusch Learning Center/ Monroe Boat Club/DNR fishing pier. Following the fishing derby, all participants of the different classes are invited to the boat club for certificate presentations and a hot dog cookout. All programs are "ala carte," so that while students are encouraged to attend the entire series, they are not required to do so. www.monroeboatclub.org Lifesaving awareness class. It will be held at one of the Monroe Public School properties with an indoor pool and taught by Mr. Kern of the Monroe Public School system. The next class will be April 12. It is an AED/CPR /First Aid awareness class that will be held at the Monroe Boat Club and taught by certified instructor J. Kranz. greatlakesboating.com | 37 GREAT LAKES MAYORS URGE ACTION ON MICROPLASTICS The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative has sent letters to regulators and industry asking for their commitment to removing microplastics from personal care products and cleaning up the microplastics already in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Great Lakes results from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. These plastics pose a number of threats to the Great Lakes, Mason noted. The Cities Initiative has contacted the Federal EPA and Environment Canada to highlight the growing problem of microplastics in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River. It urged the federal agencies to clean up the microplastics currently present in the Great Lakes and to stop any future additions. The Cities Initiative has also contacted leading producers of microplastics, including J&J, Bath and Body Works, P&G, and L'Oreal, asking them to supply information explaining how they would clean up existing concentrations of microplastics in the Great Lakes and when they would eventually phase them out. Microplastics are plastics debris smaller than 5 mm in diameter. They include industrial broken fragments, polystyrene, cosmetic plastic residues, and residue from common consumer products such as toothpaste, deodorants, hand cleaners, and facial exfoliants. In 2012, Sherri Mason Ph.D., a professor of chemistry at SUNY Fredonia, researched the plastic content of lakes Huron, Erie, and Superior and found microplastics in greater concentrations in Lake Erie than any other body of water on earth, exceeding even the NEW MACATAWA BAY YACHT CLUB the new building that will include a restaurant and special event facilities. It hired Midwest Construction Group of Zeeland, Mich., to construct the new building. Jeff Ehlart, vice commodore of the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club, said the new facility will be twice the size of the Construction of a new, multilevel, 12,000 sq. ft. building to house the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club started in October and is expected to be completed for the opening of the 2014 boating season. The yacht club demolished its former clubhouse, built in 1964, to make way for former one with an expanded dining room, lounge, and kitchen facility on the first level and a bar and multifunction rooms on the top level. "We've been studying improvement and expansion needs for the clubhouse for three decades and we decided it was time to put everything we want into a new building," said Elhart. The new building will also have expanded outdoor dining on the ground level and a terrace dining area on the second floor. One holdover from the former club building is a wooden bar crafted and donated by Baker Furniture. Prior to demolition, the bar was removed and is being refinished and restored for installation in the new building. The 415-member club was only open once a month during fall and winter. Once the new building is completed, Elhart said the club would be open weekends and for holiday occasions in the fall and winter. MBIA APPLAUDS NEW SALES TAX LAW FOR BOATS SOLD IN MICHIGAN When Gov. Rick Snyder signed into law Public Acts 159 and 160, which brings Sales Tax on the Difference (STOD) for automobiles, RVs and boats to Michigan, it was welcomed by the Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA). When it comes to watercraft sales, Michigan will no longer be at a competitive disadvantage with its neighboring states. Currently, all of Michigan's surrounding states have STOD, which allows consumers to only pay sales tax on the difference between the trade-in value and the new purchase price. The new law exempts the full value of a trade-in from the sales and use taxes on all boats. "This will have a huge impact on our ability to compete on a level playing field with our competitors in Ohio and Indiana," said Les 38 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 VanStone, president of Coldwater Lake Marina in Coldwater, Mich. "This should increase sales within our state, keeping that revenue inside the state of Michigan. It's great to see our lawmakers doing the right thing and making the tax more fair to consumers." "The passage of 'Sales Tax on the Difference' legislation is a winwin for consumers and businesses across the state," said MBIA Board Chairman Jim Coburn, Coburn & Associates. "Consumers will benefit and Michigan's business climate will benefit through improved boat sales and ancillary marine sales. It's a logical way to 'even the economic playing field with many other states and improve Michigan's revenue." MICHIGAN ANGLER SETS NEW CATFISH RECORD The Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed on Jan. 13 that the state had a new record flathead catfish. Dale Blakley of Niles, Mich, landed the record catfish on Jan. 12 on Barron Lake in Cass County. The fish weighed 52 pounds and measured 46.02 inches. Blakley said he was fishing for crappies when he landed the record fish. Brian Gunderman, a DNR fisheries biologist at the state Plainwell Office, verified the record. The previous state record flathead catfish was caught by Rodney Akey of Niles on the St. Joseph River in Berrien County on May 22, 2012. That fish weighed 49.8 pounds and measured 45.7 inches. Prior to that, the record hadn't been broken since 1943. Fishing It should be noted that flathead catfish typically inhabit large river systems, like the nearby St. Joseph River. Based on the size of this fish, it mysteriously found its way to Barron Lake several years ago, perhaps through illegal stocking, as there are no direct connections to a large river system. Anglers are reminded that transferring fish from one water body to another is prohibited because such transfers can disrupt the fish community in the receiving water through predation, competition with native species, or introduction of new disease-causing organisms. State records are recognized by weight only. To qualify for a state record, fish must exceed the current listed state record weight and a DNR fisheries biologist must verify it. ILLINOIS ANGLERS SHOULD BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR EURASIAN RUFFLE Doug Jensen, University of Minnesota Sea Grant Program Calumet Harbor is a vibrant harbor with international and intra-lake shipping present, said Kevin Irons, Aquatic Nuisance Species Program Manager for IDNR. Thus, the detection of Eurasian ruffe DNA is not that surprising. "Certainly, eDNA can come from swimming fish, but The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is asking anglers to be on the lookout for and report any findings of Eurasian ruffe in Illinois waters. This fish is an aquatic nuisance species that has been in the Great Lakes since the mid-1960s, and may be moving into Illinois waters. Within the last year, a survey of Calumet Harbor in Northeast Illinois by the University of Notre Dame, Central Michigan University, and The Nature Conservancy has found Eurasian ruffe DNA in water samples. The initial conclusion from the Calumet Harbor water samples did not detect ruffe, but follow up analyses suggest that ruffe environmental DNA (or eDNA) may be present in a small portion of the samples. alternatively eDNA can be transported by birds, boat hulls, fishing nets, and other mechanisms…. [L]ake freighters from infested regions could simply discharge water and enable detections," said Kelly Baerwaldt, joint U.S. Army Corps of Engineers/USFWS eDNA Program Manager. "The Illinois DNR urges anglers to report fish that may be ruffe, as they may be taken while fishing for yellow perch or other fish in the Calumet Harbor area, or anywhere in waters surrounding Chicago," Irons said. "A clear cell phone picture of the fish from several angles can help in identification, or you may simply put fish in a zip lock/ plastic bag and freeze it. If found, please note specifically where the fish was caught and include time and date information." 40 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 SHEDD AQUARIUM DEBUTS ASIAN CARP DIGITAL CURRICULUM Chicago's Shedd Aquarium has unveiled two new digital resources: an online curriculum called Asian Carp Exploration and a series of video vignettes entitled "The High Stakes of the Great Lakes." Designed for seventh through ninth grade level students, the Asian Carp Exploration curriculum shares information about Asian carp through problem-based learning, providing insight into how the waterways are connected and how they relate to native and non-native wildlife. The curriculum can be easily adapted to any classroom format. Thus, teachers and students can select from three different specialties— industry, ecology and technology/engineering. Each specialty area presents tailored content related to the selected area, encouraging students to analyze each situation and propose their own ideas and recommendations to address Asian carp in a YouTube video. ©Shedd Aquarium Shedd's three "High Stakes of the Great Lakes" videos are designed to go beyond the classroom and help educate audiences about the Great Lakes and Asian carp issue. Each video presents an overview of Great Lakes issues through a series of themes, e.g., the beauty and importance of the Great Lakes, the threat of Asian carp, and exploring the range of creative options to prevent the spread of invasive species. The videos are on the aquarium's learning YouTube channel and featured in the online curriculum. Perspectives from various sectors are highlighted in the videos featuring key Great Lakes stakeholders ranging from David Ullrich, the executive director of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative to Dirk Fucik of Dirk's Fish and Seafood to Shedd Great Lakes researcher Dr. Solomon David. WISCONSIN SETS CHINOOK STOCKING STRATEGY Wisconsin's fisheries division has settled on a strategy for stocking Chinook salmon in the state's Lake Michigan waters, and it seeks to maintain existing great fishing opportunities in spring and summer all along the coast, while tweaking the state's original fall fishing proposal based on public input. Mike Staggs, Wisconsin's fisheries director, said the updated stocking strategy reflects newer research showing that Chinook are highly migratory fish, and that where they are stocked doesn't affect the main fishery in the spring and summer. Moreover, current research suggests that stocking plays a much more important role in determining where fish are caught in Wisconsin in the fall, with the bulk of these fish returning on their spawning runs to streams where they were stocked, said Brad Eggold, DNR fisheries supervisor for southern Lake Michigan. Wisconsin and other states and tribes that share fisheries management on Lake Michigan agreed to adjust stocking levels of Chinook starting in 2013 to bring the number of predator fish back into line with the number of prey fish. Significantly increased natural reproduction of Chinook in Michigan streams and record low levels of alewives, a key fish food, had led to declines in fish condition in recent years and university researchers projected the Chinook population would crash in coming years if no measures were taken. That lake-wide stocking adjustment, public input, and the new understanding of fish migration since DNR's longstanding stocking strategy was created spurred DNR to update its stocking strategy, Staggs said. YELLOW PERCH MEETING SET FOR CHICAGO The Lake Michigan Committee of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission is holding a multi-jurisdictional yellow perch summit on March 22 in Chicago, Ill. The goal of this summit is to foster a dialog with key partners about ongoing management efforts. Anyone interested in yellow perch and the Lake Michigan fisheries is invited to participate in person or via a webinar. Registration is free for all participants until March 15, 2014. Late registration will be available for a fee of $20 for in-person attendees on the day of the meeting only. Registration for the Yellow Perch Summit is required for all participants. It can be done online at: www.glfc.org/lakecom/yp or via phone at 847-294-4134. greatlakesboating.com | 41 SHEBOYGAN GETS NEW MARINA MANAGER Marinas market the marina. Reefpoint Marina use web-based programs, the Internet, and social media to communicate with boaters and Harbor Centre Marina The new management firm will receive a base salary of $60,000 beginning in 2014, and this will increase $5,000 each following year. Harbor Centre Marina is owned by the city of Sheboygan and has been operating for about 20 years. The marina has yet to turn a profit, and the city aldermen hope that a change in management will bring in more revenues. The marina has 280 slips and has rented an average of about 180 slips each boating season. City aldermen cited this statistic in their discussions, noting that it leaves some room for improvement. This is the second Lake Michigan marina under SGMC management. Racine County hired SGMC to manage Reefpoint Marina in May 2013, and the transition was so successful the company was awarded a five-year contract at the end of the season. The city of Sheboygan (Wis.) has hired a new operator to provide day-to-day management of its Harbor Centre Marina. On Dec. 17, the city council approved a five-year contract with the Siegel-Gallagher Management Co. (SGMC) out of Milwaukee to replace the former managment company. John Mathison, a spokesman for Siegel-Gallagher, said the company would be retaining present staff at the marina. He told the council that his company wouldn't sell boats, but rather focus its efforts on providing superior customer service. He said the company would CITY MARINA PROJECT MOVES FORWARD Plans for a city-owned marina in Plattsburgh (N.Y.) moved one step closer to reality when the city Planning Board approved the NavTours proposal to operate a marina at the eastern end of Dock Street next to the Plattsburgh Boat Basin. The city would continue to own the property and lease it to NavMarine, an entity formed by NavTours to operate the marina. Elizabeth White, the NavTours manager in Plattsburgh, said her company is very familiar with the area having offered boat charters of Lake Champlain for 15 years. She said the company intends to have the new marina open in time for the 2014 boating season. Scott Allen of AES Northeast, a design engineering firm, said the marina will be designed to accommodate larger boats, i.e., those 30 feet or longer. That is based on a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) study that shows owners of larger boats are more likely to visit for overnight or longer and spend more money at local businesses. The overall project will include office space, a welcome center, cafe, ships store, restrooms with showers, laundry room, 32 dock slips, and 25 moorings. The cafe, store, restrooms, showers and laundry facilities would be open to the public. Before beginning construction, the project developers need to finalize a lease with the city, get a permit from the New York State Office of General Services for that portion of the property that is in the lake, and receive approval from USACE and the State Department of Environmental Conservation. MICHIGAN MARINA PLANS TO BUILD NEW STORAGE BUILDING North Shore Marina, Grand Haven, Mich., plans to install a new boat storage facility on the northeast corner of its existing property. The plan moved closer to construction when Grand Haven's Planning Commission approved the project and a Zoning Board of Appeals gave the go-ahead in December for a 7,200 sq. ft. building that will be 35 ft. high. The area where the building is to be built is currently empty, but the marina had previously used it as a storage spot for marina equipment. During the appeals process, nearby residents raised concerns that the property would become a dumping ground for outdated marina equipment and materials. Chris Lisowicz, the owner of the marina, said he's heard these concerns, and the new building won't pose any problems for dune enthusiasts. 42 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 STUDY EXAMINES SAMPSON STATE PARK MARINA OPTIONS The New York state Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) has allocated funds for a study of options for the Sampson State Park Marina. The OPRHP Finger Lakes Regional Office in Trumansburg, N.Y. is undertaking the study. Although the Sampson State Park Marina is the only "safe harbor" on the east side of Seneca Lake between Geneva and Watkins Glen, N.Y., it has deteriorated over the years. As a result, it is now facing unsafe conditions at its docks, along with shallow water and underwater obstructions that have prompted a ban on sailboats and the closure of several slips. In recent years, the Friends of Sampson Park, a group of boaters interested in keeping the marina as a viable boating location, was formed and presented a petition to OPRHP asking for money to reconstruct the marina. It fell on deaf ears. Most recently, a special marina committee—Save the Sampson Marina—under the leadership of William Koelbel, who runs a marina consulting firm in Geneva, N.Y., was formed and it has asked the state to look at three options: • Rebuild the marina in its current configuration • Reconstruct the marina with a different configuration • Decommission the marina and replace it with a boat launch ramp. To help the state, the Friends of Sampson Park is contributing reconstruction alternatives, boater demographics, cost estimates, and economic impact data. The current study is expected to be completed this year. ALPENA BOAT HARBOR REPORTS DROP IN BOAT TRAFFIC Alpena Boat Harbor, the city-owned marina in Alpena, Mich., reported a slight drop in both boat traffic and revenues in 2013 from 2012, according to a Jan. 14 article in the Alpena News. Don Gilmet, the city's harbormaster, said the number of people who are transient boaters, rent docks at the marina, and purchase launch permits has steadily declined each year since 2010. He cited high gasoline prices, the decline in salmon fishing, and the reduced number of walleye in the adjacent waters as the major factors for the dip in boating revenues. Alpena Boat Harbor has 90 seasonal slips for rent and only 56 boaters docked at the harbor in 2013. High fuel prices reduced the number of transient boaters, while low water levels prompted the owners of larger vessels to seek locations that could accommodate their craft. Gilmet said the water levels would not be a problem in 2014 as the harbor was dredged in late 2013, Another major factor in the decline of renters at the harbor is the age of boat owners and the types of boats they own. Older boaters tend to keep their boats at the harbor, while younger ones prefer to buy smaller boats that are easier to take from one location to another. Although the Michigan Waterways Commissions has allowed Alpena to drop rates and promote the facility over a wider area, it hasn't been enough to stimulate increased boating traffic, Gilmet said. He hoped more transient boaters would visit the harbor as word spreads about the beauty of Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary. CHARLEVOIX LOOKS TO EXPAND MARINA The City of Charlevoix is looking to expand its marina to help accommodate larger boats and yachts. City leaders said the project would cost the city hundreds of thousands of dollars, but believe it could help provide a long-term boost to the economy. The last couple of years have been very good for the marina, said Hal Evans, the Charlevoix Marina Harbormaster, but he has had to turn away some larger vessels because the marina can't accommodate them. He added that each lost boat represents a lost opportunity for someone to spend about $250 a night in Charlevoix. So to accommodate the growing demand, the city is proposing a marina expansion plan. One of the docks on Round Lake would be extended another 150 feet, existing slips reconstructed, and this would double the number of slips available for larger vessels. "It's estimated that the additional revenue that would result from the slips would pay for the expansion within three to five years," Mike Spencer, Charlevoix City Planner said. But the city would first have to find a way to cover the initial costs, which are an estimated $400,000. City leaders are not sure if they will pre-lease the slips or search for grant money, but either way they want the public's opinion. "We're looking forward to all public comments for or against," Spencer said. "Once we know that and have firm numbers on cost then city council will be able to make a decision." greatlakesboating.com | 43 REGULATIONS HAVE CHANGED IN SEVERAL STATES A number of new state and local boating laws, regulations and policy changes will take effect in 2014. The Sea Tow Foundation reminds boaters to review the laws affecting their home waters, as well as the waters of any other states where they may go boating. Here's a list of some of the state boating law changes impacting boaters this year: New York's mandatory education law goes into effect on May 1 and impacts any person born on or after May 1, 1996 who wishes to operate a mechanically propelled boat. Boat operators must be at least 10 years old, and anyone operating a boat under the age of 18 must have his or her own boating safety certificate or be accompanied by someone over the age of 18 who has a boating safety certificate. This law supersedes the law previously passed in Suffolk County. National engaging in criminal activity. from falling overboard and being injured or killed. Ohio passed the Boater Freedom Act in the summer of 2013, which should help to decrease the number of stops and inspections that law enforcement officers can make of recreational boaters within the state. Boats may only be stopped if there is reasonable suspicion that the vessel, equipment or operator is violating boating laws or Pennsylvania boaters must now follow a new rule that prohibits anyone from riding on the bow deck or railings of a boat at high rates of speed. This is to prevent passengers, especially young children, The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), www.nasbla.org, offers boaters information about the laws and policies for recreational boating safety within the 50 U.S. states and territories. NSHOF PARTNERS WITH SUNSAIL AND THE MOORINGS TO OFFER DISCOUNTS ON SAILBOAT CHARTERS & CRUISES The National Sailing Hall of Fame (NSHOF). Sunsail, and The Moorings have announced a partnership designed to call attention to and promote cruising. With this partnership, NSHOF Founding Members, NSHOF Founding Member Yacht Club members, and NSHOF Community Sailing Organization Supporters are now qualified to receive a five percent NSHOF discount on Sunsail and The Moorings charters and cruises. The NSHOF's five percent discount can be combined with US Sailing's five percent discount, and with Sunsail or The Moorings loyalty incentives for up to 15 percent off a charter cruise. The NSHOF said it is offering this discount incentive as a way of saying thanks to those people who are active participants in growing and furthering the sport of sailing, and use cruising to enrich the lives of their families and friends. Terms and conditions of the discount are available online at www.sunsail.com/nshof. BOATING IN ITALY WITH SEA SENSE The course is designed to give participants the opportunity to become competent and comfortable as both skipper and crew. Boat handling, docking European-style, navigating from island to island in international waters, and locking through the canal system are among the many skills to be learned. Sea Sense is offering an eightday powerboating class in Venice, Italy this season. This hands-on powerboating course will be taught aboard a fully equipped, comfortable, modern 47-foot canal boat. 44 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 also will be plenty of time for exploring and touring during this course. The live-aboard course is scheduled from June 14 to 21, 2014. It will depart from and return to the charming river town of Casale, Italy, which is northeast of Venice. The cost is $3,895 per person, which includes breakfast and lunches aboard, all cruising taxes, dockage, and fuel costs. www.seasenseboating.com // 727-289-6917 All of this will take place while cruising in an area that has enchanted emperors, sailors and travelers for centuries. There A WEEK ABOARD A 200 FOOT TALL SHIP in July and August 2014, teens between the ages of 13 and 18 will have a unique opportunity to experience "an ocean of education and adventure" aboard the newly built SSV Oliver Hazard Perry. With 15 professional crew plus a capacity for 30-34 students each session, Rhode Island's Official Sailing Education Vessel is open to students from any state or country during teen camp sessions. It is a 200-foot Coast Guard inspected and approved steel-hulled, technologically sophisticated 21st Century ship—the first oceangoing, full-rigged ship to be built in the U.S. in 110 years and the largest civilian sail training vessel in America. Students will take the helm of the 500-ton Tall Ship, learn to work as a team with others as they hoist and brace the yards on the 130foot tall rig, and apply acquired seamanship and navigation skills to guide the ship's course on a voyage of discovery. In addition, they will witness the natural magic of the ocean and its inhabitants—think spectacular night skies, marine phosphorescence, whales breaching, and dolphins at play! Newport, Nantucket, Boston, Portsmouth and Greenport are among the historically rich ports the ship will visit. Latest rendering of SSV Oliver Hazard Perry, as she will look when she sails in 2014. (Image Credit Ezra Smith Design, LLC/Trixie Wadson) Available to download in high resolution by clicking the photo above Camp price for six days/nights is $1,600 (10% discount for enrolling before January 31, 2014), which includes all meals and a 1:4 ratio of staff to students. The first of SSV Oliver Hazard Perry's seven oneweek onboard coastal Sea Camp programs begins July 13 and the last finishes on Aug. 30. Call 401-841-0080 or visit www.ohpri.org/summer-cam for more information and a reservation form. FOOTLOOSE CHARTERS ADDS NEW CATAMARANS TO FLEET Footloose Sailing Charters has added Footloose 474 Power Catamarans to its fleet. These four-cabin yachts feature an open plan with indoor and outdoor dining, spacious saloon, and a forward-facing navigation station among others. These catamarans are available for immediate booking for charters starting on July 1, 2014 from Footloose's base in the British Virgin Islands. This yacht's design incorporates a three-level deck plan that is navigable, comfortable, and ideal for group travel. The top level is an expansive flybridge with a centrally positioned helm station for excellent visibility and ease of maneuvering. The main deck layout combines wide side decks with walk-through access to the aft swim platforms, while a large foredeck with louvered steps offers additional lounging and seating areas. The 474's interior is outfitted with airconditioning throughout, while windows along the sides of the coach roof fill the room with natural light. Each of the four double cabins has an en-suite bath. www.footloosecharters.com COAST GUARD FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES DOUGLAS MUNRO SCHOLARSHIP FUND The Coast Guard Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to the education and welfare of Coast Guard members and their families, has established the Douglas Munro Scholarship Fund. Named for the only Coast Guard member to be awarded the Medal of Honor, the new scholarship will help children of Coast Guard members achieve their goals of a college education. To establish the fund, the Coast Guard Foundation is offering a limited-edition challenge coin set that honors Munro and his service in the Coast Guard. The coin set will be offered to individuals who donate $100 or more to the scholarship fund. The American-made collectable coins are numbered and bear Munro's likeness on the front, and an image of a statue erected in his honor and his Medal of Honor on the back. greatlakesboating.com | 45 Signalman First Class Douglas Albert Munro was killed in action on Guadalcanal on Sept. 27, 1942 after helping a detachment of Marines escape from a point where enemy opposition was far worse than anticipated. Munro was in charge of a fleet of 10 boats that successfully landed the Marines. He got them ashore and headed back to his assigned position, but immediately learned that the conditions on the island were much more dangerous than expected. Munro led the evacuation of Guadalcanal, bringing the boats under heavy enemy fire to rescue the Marines. In order to save the last men leaving, he moved the boat he was on to serve as cover, where he was fatally wounded. www.coastguardfoundation.org FIRST C&C REDLINE 41 C&C Yachts has announced that the first production hull of the Mills-designed Redline 41 is under construction. The boat is being built for an experienced British ocean racer who plans to compete in the 2014 Newport Bermuda Race. The C&C 41 is the newest Sailing Yachts/USWatercraft. www.uswatercraft.com The new 41 is designed to be a fast, durable performer capable of taking on offshore events like Newport-Bermuda, Chicago-Mac, Fastnet, and the Hobart race. The swept spreader, non-overlapping jib and choice of conventional spinnaker or retractable sprit provide ease of handling with top-notch performance. Aesthetics are enhanced with custom interior choices provided by C7C member of Mark Mills' family of race winning 40-footers such as Blondie, Tokoloshe, Mariner's Cove, Soozal, and Downtime. It is anticipated that the C&C 41 will be a strong performer in ORR/ORCi and IRC. Mills Design is working closely with US Sailing to provide an ORR certificate for the boat. BAYVIEW ONE DESIGN REGATTA REGISTRATION Online registration has begun for the Third Annual Bayview One Design Regatta, which will be hosted by the Bayview Yacht Club of Detroit, Mich. The event is scheduled to take place May 30 through June 1 and includes three race circles for larger keelboats that will take place on Lake St. Clair, and a fourth race that will be held on the Detroit River, featuring Ultimate 20s, Wayfarer and other dinghies. The Bayview One Design Regatta will again host the International Moth Grand Prix. The exhibition races will take place in front of Bayview Yacht Club on the evenings of May 30 and May 31. The Regatta continues a familiar format of multiple races on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for two dozen or more one-design classes and a limited number of handicap classes. Classes with strong contingents expected to enter include: Audi Melges 20, Beneteau 36.7, C&C 35 Mark I Design, Cal 25, Catalina 27, Etchell, Express 27, J/70, J/120, J/35, Laser, Lightning, Thistle, and Thomas 35, Melges 24, NA 40, S27.9, Tartan Ten, and Ultimate 20. Daily awards will be provided for first, second, and third places for each class. Series prizes will be awarded for first through third places for classes with 15 or fewer entered boats and first through fifth places for classes with more than 15 entered boats. A One Design series overall winner for each race area (four total) will be selected by the Organizing Authority (OA). The One Design entry determined by the OA to be the best performing boat will receive recognition on the Bayview One Design Regatta Perpetual Trophy. Registration ends May 23. www.yachtscoring.com BVI SPRING REGATTA & SAILING FESTIVAL The BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival takes place from March 31 to April 6, in the British Virgin Islands. Starting at Nanny Cay, the Sailing Festival commences with the Round Tortola Race, followed by a relaxed island race and a beach day at Nanny Cay. After the warm up, the BVI Spring Regatta provides three days of racing. Nanny Cay Marina is regatta central with all-day fun for the family and parties after sundown with live music and dancing on the beach. For sailors who want to race but don't have a boat in the BVI, The Moorings has seven different types of charter yachts available, 46 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 from the Moorings Club 37.2, 2-cabin cruiser, comfortable for a crew of six to the 50.5. At the top of the range is the Moorings 4800 catamaran, which can comfortably accommodate 10 people. Besides a wide range of bareboat charter opportunities, there are also race charter options available at the BVI Spring Regatta for groups or individuals. From fleet racing in IC24s to big-boat racing in oceangoing high performance yachts, there are options to suit any sailor or race team. www.bvispringregatta.org 2013 ROD STEPHENS TROPHY AWARDED TO JEAN-PIERRE DICK The Cruising Club of America (CCA) has selected Jean-Pierre Dick (Nice, France) to receive the Rod Stephens YvanZedda In 2013, Dick was racing in his third Vendee Globe aboard the IMOCA 60 Virbac-Paprec3. Going into the final stretch of the race Dick was in the running for third place, but on January 21,,about 500 miles northwest of the Cape Verde Islands, the canting keel broke off the boat. In order to keep the boat upright, Dick filled the water ballast tanks, outran a 50-knot storm, and anchored in a cove off the coast of Spain. After 48 hours, he continued racing without the keel, and on February 4, 2013, after sailing 27,734 miles, Dick crossed the finish line in fourth place. His other major accomplishment during the race was covering the greatest distance in a 24-hour period, clocking 517.23 miles while racing on December 10 with an average speed of 21.6 knots. Trophy for Outstanding Seamanship for his completion of the Vendée Globe 2012-2013 after sailing without a keel for the last 2,650 miles of the solo non-stop aroundthe-world race. The trophy is given "for an act of seamanship that significantly contributes to the safety of a yacht or one or more individuals at sea." The award will be presented on May 21, 2014 at the New York Yacht Club in Manhattan. Dick's sailing accomplishments include four circumnavigations and five transatlantic crossings. In the Vendee Globe 2008-2009 Dick had to retire to New Zealand after his boat suffered rudder damage. HALL OF FAME INDUCTION NOMINATIONS BEING ACCEPTED The National Sailing Hall of Fame (NSHOF) is now accepting online nominations for the 2014 Class of the National Sailing Hall of Fame. After the nominating period concludes on April 1, Inductees for 2014 will be determined this summer. Nominating categories include Sailing, Technical/Design and Contributors. Each candidate should be a U.S. Citizen; however if someone of international birth has had a significant impact on the development of the sport of sailing in the United States, they may be included. Nominees must be 45 years of age or older. Posthumous nominations may be made five years postmortem or in the year the deceased would have reached 45 years of age, whichever is sooner. This year, up to six people will be chosen from a combination of publicly-submitted nominations and carry-over nominations from last year, as determined by a selection committee appointed by the NSHOF, comprised of representatives from NSHOF, U.S. Sailing, the sailing media, the sailing industry, community sailing, a maritime museum and NSHOF founding member clubs. This year's Induction Ceremony will be held on Sept. 28 at the Bayview and Detroit yacht clubs in Detroit, Mich. 2013 MARITIME HERO RECOGNIZED In the second annual campaign to recognize individuals who make significant contributions to the sailing community, Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky and US Sailing announced Rorke Miller of Traverse City, Mich., as the winner of the 2013 Old Pulteney Maritime Heroes Award. Miller was nominated by a member of his sailing community for his involvement in the SAIL Champion program. One of three finalists, he won the top honor after receiving the most online votes. SAIL Champion aims to help at-risk youth through the therapeutic activity of sailing. As director of the program and co-founder of RED8 Boatworks, Miller creates a positive environment where young adults can seek guidance and training for a better future. He has helped young adults achieve higher education scholarships and paved the road to making better life choices. "The Old Pulteney Maritime Heroes Award was created to recognize and honor a true hero who uses their love of sailing to advance their community and the lives of others," said Pat Graney, President of International Beverage USA. "Rorke Miller has done exactly this with his SAIL Champion and RED8 Boatworks programs." Amy Larkin, Marketing Director of US Sailing added, "Young adults are the future of the sport, and garnering interest and gaining skills at a young age helps to keep the heart of sailing beating." To learn about nominating an unsung sailor in 2014, visit www.MaritimeHeroes.com. greatlakesboating.com | 47 NEW PRODUCTS SWIVEL COMBO LOCKS The E-LOCK®/Swivel Combo by DuraSafe combines two keyed-alike locks to provide protection of bracket-mounted electronics that utilize a RAM® mount. When marine electronics are mounted to a RAM® mount system, locks are needed for both the electronics unit and the mount. The E-Lock/Swivel Combos are available in three different sizes depending on the RAM Mount System. Small fits B Size RAM: 1-inch diameter ball, Medium fits C size RAM: 1.5-inch diameter ball, and Large fits D & E size: 2.25- and 3.37-inch diameter balls. From $42.95 // 262-544-5615 // www.durasafelocks.com WATERPROOF BATTERY PACK The Trent PowerPak Ultra allows users to keep their USB-based devices powered while in the most extreme environments. Featuring a rugged exterior and IP67 rating, the PowerPak Ultra can survive most drops and can be temporarily submerged in water for up to 30 minutes without damage. It features 14,000 mAh of power, meaning it is powerful enough to store 700 percent of the average smartphone's battery life. The powerful battery pack features two USB ports able to simultaneously charge any combination of smartphones, tablets, or other USB-based device. The unit is available in black or orange. $69.95 // www.newtrent.com; amazon.com TROLLING-MOTOR TRANSDUCER The SpotlightScanTM Sonar trolling-motor transducer provides picture-like images of key fishing areas on compatible HDS Gen2* or HDS Gen2 Touch* fishfinder/ chartplotter displays. SpotlightScan Sonar clearly pinpoints structure and fish targets ahead and around a boat. The SpotlightScan transducer is installed by attaching it to any bow-mounted, cable-steer, foot-control trolling motor**. Twin scanning beams provide quick refresh rates, and beam indicators are visible on the HDS Gen2 display to guide adjustments on rotation or scanning speeds for the best possible underwater image. $499 // 800-628-4487 // www.lowrance.com * HDS Gen2 (non Touch) models require the SonarHub™ module for compatibility with the SpotlightScan Sonar transducer. 48 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 ** SpotlightScan Sonar installation requires connectivity to a bow-mounted, cable-steer, foot-control trolling motor. Not for use with hand-steer or electric-steer electric trolling motors. ULTRA BRIGHT LANTERN The Mr. Beams UltraBright Lantern is one of the brightest available, providing 260 lumens of light, and it also serves as a USB charging station. Powered by four D-cell batteries, the lantern is capable of fully charging a smartphone three times while providing 15 hours of light. To conserve battery power, the lantern has a built-in shut off feature after 60 minutes of use. Prior to turning off, the lantern will blink so users are never caught in the dark unawares. It's available in white or forest green. $39.99 // 877-298-9082 // www.mrbeams.com GPS SPEEDOMETER The Faria GPS Speedometer is a drop-in replacement for a current speedometer and can be made to match an existing instrument dash in a standard 4-inch dashboard hole. GPS information is gathered from an internal GPS antenna. The unit uses a 48-channel GPS receiver to produce the most accurate GPS information available. Course Over Ground (COG) and actual heading (compass heading over ground) are displayed on an optional digital LCD. An analog pointer that is driven by a digital stepper motor for increased accuracy and minimized pointer bounce during vessel operation shows speed data. $229 // 860-848-9271 // www.faria-instruments.com THERMAL IMAGING/DAYLIGHT COLOR CAMERA The NightRunner® Dual Payload Thermal Imaging/Daylight Color Camera from the Iris Corp. provides both high-resolution thermal imaging and full pan/tilt/zoom daylight color imaging in a sleek, waterproof housing. It provides sailors and fishermen with the ability to "see" not only in the dark, but also through fog, smoke, and dust. When thermal imaging isn't required, the daylight camera module has a powerful digital zoom feature for use under a wide range of conditions and navigating situations. The camera can be installed in either a standard or hanging orientation. $4,500 // 954-533-9381 // www.boat-cameras.com greatlakesboating.com | 49 BOAT CARE & FEEDING SCALE REMOVER FOR POTABLE WATER SYSTEMS PSR™ from TRAC Ecological Products safely removes scale, silicate, calcium, sludge, and other mineral deposits from onboard potable water systems. Made from food grade-rated materials, non-toxic and biodegradable PSR is safe for users, equipment, and the environment. It will not harm the properties of most surfaces including plastic, metal, rubber, fiberglass, vinyl, wood, or paint. (However, care should be taken when PSR™ is used with zinc-based metals such as zinc anodes, tin, or galvanized materials.) One gallon of PSR treats approximately 30 to 40 gallons of potable water. Available in 1-, 5-, 55-, and 250-gallon containers. From $51 // 954-987-2722 // www.trac-online.com FIBERGLASS REPAIR SOLUTION MagicEzy has developed a range of all-in-one industrial strength repair solutions that fix, bond, and color various types of fiberglass damage in one application without the need for pre-repair sanding. MagicEzy products include 9 Second Chip Fix and Hairline Fix, which come in 11 popular boat colors and can also be used on wood, ceramics, plastic, metal, glass, and masonry. These products are available in 12.9 ml/0.45 fl. oz. tubes with a built-in leveling device to help achieve pinpoint accuracy and a smooth, level finish. About $17 each // 702-879-7929 // www.magicezy.com WATER STRAINER Forespar's Marelon T-150 Strainer provides a compact installation alternative for raw water filtration. The strained includes a mounting bracket that only requires two 1/4 -inch fasteners to attach it to a bulkhead or stringer, and its C clamp shape allows the strainer to be snapped into place and rotated as needed. A clear polycarbonate screw-on filter bucket offers easy viewing of the stainless steel filter basket without removal. The T-150 fits 11/2 -inch female NPSM (Parallel Threads) ports to which a straight or 90˚ hose barb tailpipe can be attached. Adaptors are also available for 3/4 to 11/4 -inch fittings. $149.50 // 800-266-8820 // www.forespar.com 50 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 WHERE BOATERS GO FOR NEWS BENEFITS TO VENDORS Become a preferred vendor and make your business available to Great Lakes boaters. Greatlakesboatingfederation.com is a community-based meeting place for boaters and vendors of marine products and services. BENEFITS TO BOATERS • Offers vigorous economic and political support to boaters on the Great Lakes and on the inland waterways from the Mississippi to the Atlantic Coast • Advances boaters' rights, needs and interests on the federal, state and local levels in the face of harsh regulations • Forges partnerships with boating businesses to provide member discounts at the best providers of boating products and services EVENTS CALENDAR FLORIDA MARCH 6-9 ILLINOIS MARCH 22 MARCH 28-30 Cottage & Lakefront Living Show Devos Place Grand Rapids www.showspan.com Bonita Springs Boat Show Naples/Fort Myers Greyhound Track. Bonita Springs www.swfmia.com Yellow Perch Summit UIC Forum Chicago www.glfc.org/lakecom/yp/ APRIL 4-6 MARCH 7-10 Fort Myers Spring Boat Show Lee Civic Center North Fort Myers www.fortmyersboatshow.com MICHIGAN MARCH 7-9 Boat & Outdoor Show Grand Traverse County Civic Center Traverse City www.tcboatshow.com Steelheaders Fishing & Outdoor Show Birch Run Expo Center Birch Run www.flintsteelheaders.com MARCH 13-15 MISSOURI MARCH 6-9 Dania Marine Flea Market Mardi Gras Casino Hallandale www.daniamarinefleamarket.com MARCH 8-9 St. Charles Boat Show St. Charles Convention Center St. Charles www.lakeozarkboatdealers.com Midwest Fly Fishing Expo Macomb Community College Sports & Expo Center Warren www.midwestflyfishingexpo.com MARCH 14-16 Emerald Coast Boat Show Emerald Coast Convention Center Fort Walton Beach www.pcboatshow.com NEW YORK MARCH 28-30, APRIL 4-6 MARCH 13-16 The Great Upstate Boat Show Adirondack Sports Complex Queensbury www.thegreatupstateboathow.com Spring Boating Expo Suburban Collection Showplace Novi www.springboatingexpo.net MARCH 20-23 Palm Beach International Boat Show Flagler Dr./Intracoastal Waterway West Palm Beach www.showmanagement.com MARCH 14-16 WISCONSIN MARCH 7-9 Dow Diamond Boat Show Dow Diamond, 825 E. Main St. Midland www.theboatshowatdowdiamond.com APRIL 11-13 Central Wisconsin RV & Camping Show Patriot Center Wausau www.fishingboatingoutdoor.com Southeast U.S. Boat Show Jacksonville Metro Park & Marina Jacksonville www.southeastusboatshow.com MARCH 20-23 Ultimate Sport Show Devos Place Grand Rapids www.ultimatesportshow.com MARCH 14-16 APRIL 25-27 Wisconsin Sport Show Eau Claire Indoor Sports Center Eau Claire www.wisportshow.com Suncoast Boat Show of Downtown Sarasota Marina Jack's Sarasota www.showmanagement.com MARCH 27-29 Lansing Boat Show Lansing Center Lansing www.lansingboatshow.com CANADA MARCH 28-30 Cottage Life Show International Centre Toronto www.cottagelife.com 52 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 MARINE MART PRODUCTS & SERVICES FREE ADS GOT A BOAT TO SELL? Complimentary 25-word classified boat advertisements and PHOTO in the May/June 2014 issue. (NO STRINGS ATTACHED!) Email your text-only advertisement to: Advertiser Index firstname.lastname@example.com Free classified boat advertisement offer limited to one per reader. All classified ads are subject to publisher's approval. Space is limited. Free ads will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Advertisements for the May/June 2014 issue must be received by Apr. 7, 2014. Allstate Insurance ............................. IFC Carver Boats...................................... BC Chicago Harbors/Westrec ................. 7 Cruzin ................................................ 2 Essex Credit ...................................... 3 Honda Marine .................................... 1 National Ocean Policy Coalition ........ 31 SUBSCRIBE Online! SUBSCRIPTION RATES US Customers 1 yr $21.50 (6 issues) 2 yr $40.00 (12 issues) CANADA (USD) 1 yr $27.50 (6 issues) 2 yr $46.00 (12 issues) Powerboat Headquarters .................. 23 Progressive ....................................... 11 Reef Point Marina Marina.............................. 5 SAMS................................................. 56 SkipperBud's ......................... 55, IBC TakeMeFishing.org ............................ 27 Visit Sheboygan................................. 39 Waukegan Harbor.............................. 15 VISIT: GreatLakesBoating.com or CALL: 312.266.8400 greatlakesboating.com | 53 MARINE MART SAILBOAT 1978 RANGER 22 IOR Mini Ton: Major refit 2008/09, new North sails, Tohatsu 6 hp, 125%, roller furler, gennaker,, compass, speedo. Also 155%, 100%, spinnaker, trailer. Contact Ed at ebaker101@comcast. net or Call: 630-253-8737. $4500. (see photo below) 1984 41' President Double Cabin Trawler: Twin diesels, 9kw generator, autopilot, synchronizer, air & heat, GPS plotter. Sleeps 6, washer/dryer, flat panel tv/dvd, vacuflush heads, 2 refridgerators, ice maker. Dock steps, spare props. Interior upgraded, beautifully maintained. Bob at 586-566-1550 or 810-335-7711. $65K. 1987 49' Grand Banks Motor Yacht: Perfect live aboard and cruiser, 3 staterooms, two 3208TA CATS, two generators, water maker, ice maker, refrigerator/freezer. Much more, new survey. Located Charleston, SC, POWERBOAT 1989 280 Baja Sport: Good entry level performance boat. Twin 454s, trailer included. Located Southeast Michigan. Call Chuck at 419-356-4522. Asking $17,900 obo. (see photo below) Call Ken at 828-479-4939, firstname.lastname@example.com. $285,000. (see photo below) V ISIT NOW! MISCELLANEOUS LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL A MARINA? 1979 34' John Allmand Sport Fisher: Bluewater boat on heavy-duty trailer for storage. Insured $25,000. Dennis at 773-901-6721. Sell $12,500. (see photo below) Contact: Eddy A. Dingman Lic: Marina real estate/business broker firstname.lastname@example.com National Marina Properties Group Financing available to qualified buyers. AMI MEMBER (association of Marina industries) 847-987-6626 Visit: http://nationalgolfandmarina.com Slip for Sale: 60' slip at the beautiful Duncan Bay Boat Club in Cheboygan, MI at an incredible price of $19,900. Slip has a center finger-pier (allows 4-way tie of the boat) and a dock box. Call Ray at 586-243-1713. BOATING FEDERATION GREAT LAKES Sell your boat on our NEW redesigned Classified Section 54 GLB | Mar/A pr 14 IMPROVED MOBILE FRIENDLY! GreatLakesBoatingFederation.com NEW MARINE MART For complete specs & photos of these boats visit: HF0412A B12006 B12282 B12076 B12399 MC0043A B11692 J0013A B12363 R0862B B12014 E0082A2 B12022 B12340 B12195 B12222 T2603A J0134A B12170 B12160 B12005 B11168 B12398 B11329 P1451 B12414 B11957 2010 2010 2011 2004 2006 2007 2010 2006 2008 2012 2012 2013 2005 2005 2008 2011 2011 2013 2005 2007 2008 2007 2007 2005 2006 2006 2006 2008 B10840 B12334 B12111 B12229 B11114 B12001 B12008 B12283 B11869 B11561 2004 2006 2012 2004 2004 2006 2004 2008 2004 2005 20' 20' 20' 21' 21' 21' 21' 22' 22' 22' 22' 22' 23' 23' 23' 23' 23' 23' 24' 24' 24' 25' 26' 27' 27' 27' 27' 27' 28' 28' 28' 29' 30' 30' 31' 31' 32' 32' HARRIS SEA RAY HARRIS SEA RAY GLASTRON SEA RAY SEA RAY SEA RAY AQUA PATIO MONTEREY SYLVAN HARRIS CHAPARRAL POLAR YAMAHA CREST SYLVAN TIGE CROWNLINE CROWNLINE STARCRAFT TROPHY SEA RAY LARSON CHAPARRAL CROWNLINE SEA RAY BAYLINER SEA RAY BAYLINER SEA RAY CHAPARRAL SEA RAY SEA RAY MAXUM FOUR WINNS BENETEAU RINKER 16,995.00 30,995.00 17,495.00 17,995.00 21,995.00 32,995.00 31,995.00 30,995.00 20,995.00 38,995.00 29,995.00 32,995.00 34,995.00 35,000.00 27,900.00 17,900.00 36,995.00 79,995.00 29,900.00 34,900.00 29,995.00 55,900.00 52,995.00 54,000.00 49,950.00 85,000.00 54,995.00 44,900.00 48,995.00 59,900.00 109,900.00 59,900.00 99,900.00 87,500.00 49,900.00 83,900.00 74,900.00 69,900.00 B12203 B11798 NR0350A B12186 R0482A B12182 B11962 B10784 B11406 B12322 B12199 B12328 B10545 B11335 B12408 B11985 B12208 P1922 B12128 B11398 B12393 B12197 B10882 B12388 B5978 B12376 B12410 B11899 B11551 B8085 B12367 B12166 B12247 B10470 B11126 B12205 B12119 2006 2007 2005 2009 2011 2004 2005 2005 2006 2006 2008 2006 2007 2007 2008 2006 2013 2004 2004 2006 2005 2006 2006 2008 2004 2005 2006 2007 2009 2005 2004 2007 2007 2008 2008 2006 2004 SKIPPERBUDS.COM 32' 32' 33' 33' 33' 34' 34' 34' 34' 34' 34' 35' 35' 35' 35' 36' 36' 37' 37' 37' 38' 38' 40' 40' 41' 42' 42' 43' 45' 46' 47' 48' 48' 55' 56' 58' 59' SEA RAY SEA RAY EMERALD SEA RAY CHAPARRAL RINKER FORMULA RINKER SEA RAY SEA RAY SEA RAY CARVER LARSON RINKER SEA RAY MERIDIAN TIARA CRUISERS FORMULA FOUR WINNS FOUNTAIN SEA RAY SEA RAY AZIMUT MERIDIAN FOUNTAIN TIARA CRANCHI FORMULA SEA RAY RIVIERA SEA RAY SEA RAY SEA RAY CRUISERS SEA RAY MARQUIS 119,900.00 129,500.00 49,975.00 215,000.00 169,995.00 79,900.00 139,995.00 85,997.00 144,900.00 149,000.00 149,000.00 149,000.00 129,000.00 165,000.00 214,900.00 169,000.00 449,900.00 129,995.00 138,000.00 134,995.00 129,995.00 169,000.00 259,900.00 449,000.00 279,900.00 159,900.00 439,900.00 415,000.00 479,900.00 75,000.00 189,900.00 469,000.00 510,000.00 1,099,000.00 599,000.00 699,000.00 715,000.00 greatlakesboating.com | 55