In case you haven't heard, recently introduced HB1562 (
https://legiscan.com/NH/text/HB1562/id/2864326) aims to rename and expand the current definition of a "Ski craft" (PWCs) to Personal Watercraft and include modern 3 seat models.
This will prohibit modern PWCs from using about half of NH's lakes and parts of Lake Winnipesaukee.
Currently, 3 seat PWCs are classified as boats and aren't bound by the 80's law that prohibits 1 and 2 seat ski craft from certain bodies of water. Definition found here: Section 270:73,V (
https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/rsa...270/270-73.htm)
The original law was passed when PWCs were loud, smelly and annoying, but those machines have been replaced by quiet and efficient 4 strokes. Because of their small size and light weight, modern PWCs create far smaller wakes and are more environmentally friendly to sensitive shoreline areas than traditional boats' wakes, which see to be getting bigger each year.
It's now just as common to see a wake boat passing back and forth in the same spot while blasting music from their towers as it is a PWC. The difference is, the wake boat will be creating a much bigger wake, and by their very nature, people wake surfing (and waterskiing) will seek out calmer waters, which are usually close to shore and in quiet coves.
I'm not opposed to wake boats or big boats. I'm just saying banning PWCs won't do much to reduce shoreline erosion.
If restricting the public's access to public waterways is something you're against, please reach out to your representative and let them know how you feel.