The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), joined by several Connecticut-based marine retailers, has submitted formal comments to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) regarding its proposed Wake Boat and Wakesurf Study. The wakesurfing study is intended to evaluate the operation and impacts of wake boats on Connecticut’s inland lakes and ponds and may serve as a foundation for future boating regulations.
In its submission, the MRAA urged DEEP to ensure that the study is conducted in a comprehensive, balanced and data-driven manner, fully considering the economic, recreational and community contributions of the recreational boating industry. To read MRAA’s comments, click here.
Supporting a Balanced and Informed Approach
Connecticut’s recreational marine industry is a vital economic driver, contributing $3.6 billion annually and supporting more than 13,000 jobs across more than 600 local businesses. The state’s marine retailers, marinas, service facilities and accessory providers rely heavily on a diverse and thriving boating community. Wake boats and wakesurfing, in particular, represent one of the fastest-growing segments of the recreational boating market, accounting for nearly 10% of all boat sales nationwide and generating approximately $1.7 billion in 2024 alone.
In our letter, the MRAA cautioned that outright bans or overly restrictive regulations on wake boats and wakesurfing could have disproportionate impacts on small businesses, resulting in lost sales, reduced employment and diminished tourism revenue for waterfront communities. The association encouraged DEEP to conduct a thorough economic impact assessment as part of the study, examining how any proposed restrictions may affect sales, service operations, fuel and storage revenue and other related business activities.
Promoting Education and Responsible Boating Practices
The MRAA also highlighted the role of education, outreach and voluntary best practices in promoting safety and minimizing user conflicts. The MRAA highlighted how efforts such as the Water Sports Industry Association’s “Wake Responsibly” campaign have successfully demonstrated that education can drive safe and respectful operation without the need for restrictive regulation.
MRAA’s comments encouraged DEEP to include an analysis of how educational outreach and self-regulation can serve as effective tools for ensuring harmony among different waterway users. The MRAA further recommended that DEEP consider partnership opportunities with the boating industry to expand the reach and impact of such programs across Connecticut’s boating community.
Encouraging Stakeholder Collaboration
In addition to calling for an inclusive and transparent process, MRAA recommended that DEEP establish two stakeholder working groups, one to provide input during the study’s development and another to guide post-study discussions on potential regulatory options. Modeled after Maine’s collaborative approach to wake sport regulation, this framework grounds future policy decisions in science, builds stakeholder support and maintains a balance between access and safety.
Continuing MRAA’s Advocacy for the Recreational Boating Industry
The MRAA appreciates the opportunity to provide input on this important study and remains committed to ensuring that any future policy decisions protect both Connecticut’s waterways and its marine industry. MRAA will continue to engage with DEEP and other stakeholders to advocate for policies that uphold safety, sustainability and equitable access for all recreational boaters. Please do not hesitate to reach out the MRAA Government Relations team with any questions or about issues taking place in your area.
