Integrated Dealer Systems Expands Support to MRAA as Platinum Partner Member

MINNEAPOLIS — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas announced today that Integrated Dealer Systems (IDS) increased its level of support to the Association by becoming a Platinum Partner Member.

Integrated Dealer Systems (IDS) logo

Through Platinum Partner Membership, IDS supports the MRAA, its programs, and the opportunities the association provides the dealer body in an effort to fuel the success of the industry. Commitments from Platinum Partners like IDS allow for the expansion of MRAA’s offerings and create a positive, long-term impact for its members.

When Steve Hawkins started IDS in 1984 – originally known as RVSoft – his goal was simple: to work closely with RV dealerships to give them all the technology, insights, and expertise they need to steer their business toward growth and success. As IDS continued to gain influence in the RV market, many marine dealers took interest because they were facing similar challenges. In 1992, IDS adapted its software and methodology to the marine industry and changed its name to Integrated Dealership Systems to account for its cross-industry reach.

“We are honored to support the MRRA as a Platinum Partner Member,” says Frank Tamburrini, General Manager of IDS. “We are committed to supporting the MRAA’s mission and working alongside its members to foster the growth and success of marine dealers. Together with the MRAA, we look forward to making a meaningful impact to drive positive and long-lasting change.”

“We happily welcome Integrated Dealer Systems on board now as a Platinum Partner Member,” says Allison Gruhn, Vice President of Business Development. “IDS creates great data and content that align with a lot of our efforts, assisting us in our mission to guide dealers, and the marine industry, to greater success.”

About Integrated Dealer Systems

IDS (Integrated Dealer Systems) is one of the leading providers of complete software solutions for marine, RV, and trailer dealerships. By actively engaging marine, RV, and trailer dealership communities, IDS delivers the technology, insights, and expertise to foster growth and profitability for over 10,000 software users in dealerships across North America. For more information on Integrated Dealer Systems, visit https://www.ids-astra.com or contact: raginee.mamgain@constellationdealer.com.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Oversight Hearing on NOAA’s Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule

A significant Oversight Hearing was held today by the Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Subcommittee of the House Committee on Natural Resources regarding the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) proposed Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule. The hearing addressed the potential impact of the proposed rule on both marine wildlife and the recreational marine industry.

Image of MRAA Government Relations Manager Chad Tokowicz
Author Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager

The proposed Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule aims to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale population by reducing the risk of vessel collisions. The rule would require all vessels 35 feet and above to reduce their speed to 10 knots along the East Coast, up to 90 miles offshore, from November through June. To learn more, read this MRAA blog.

In Congress, an Oversight Hearing is conducted when Members of Congress (MOC) — hosted by either a full committee or subcommittee — seek to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a law, proposed regulation, or Federal program. The Oversight Hearing, conducted in the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries, allowed stakeholders, including recreational marine industry representatives, to share their concerns and feedback on the proposed Right Whale Vessel Speed rule. Watch the hearing here.

Chairman Cliff Bentz (R-OR) and Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-CA) opened the hearing, providing background on the issue and proposed regulation. After the opening statements, each witness was given 5 minutes to remark, after which MOC asked witnesses questions.

Hearing witnesses included:

  • The Honorable Janet Coit, Deputy Administrator for the National Oceanic and
    Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Washington, D.C.
  • Mr. Clayton L. Diamond, Executive Director, American Pilots’ Association,
    Washington, D.C.
  • Mr. Fred Gamboa, Captain, Andreas’ Toy Charters, Princeton, N.J.
  • Mr. Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO, National Marine Manufacturers
    Association (NMMA), Washington, D.C.
  • Dr. Jessica Redfern, Associate Vice President of Ocean Conservation Science,
    Anderson Cabout, Center for Ocean Life at New England Aquarium, Boston, Mass.

During the hearing, the recreational marine industry expressed strong opposition to the proposed Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule, and acknowledged the importance of protecting endangered species. The marine industry representatives argued that the proposed rule would disproportionately impact boating, related businesses and recreational activities without effectively addressing the core issue of right whale conservation.

They also highlighted the potential adverse economic impact, safety issues and advocated for alternative tracking technologies.

  • Economic Impact: Reduced vessel speeds would lead to longer travel times, increased fuel consumption and operational inefficiencies, resulting in higher costs for businesses and consumers. All along the Eastern Seaboard this could lead to the shuddering of related small businesses in coastal communities.
  • Safety Concerns: Slower vessel speeds for smaller boats actually make them less safe, as they are most stable when on plane.
  • Alternative Solutions: The significant objective is right whale conservation AND minimizing the negative impact on businesses. Suggested measures included improving whale detection technologies so real-time monitoring data can be used to inform management decisions instead of a coast-wide blanket speed regulation. This would also locate whales with more accuracy.

Members of Congress questioned witnesses to better understand the impact the proposed rule would have on the recreational boating industry and NOAA’s process in gathering input on the proposed rule. They also inquired about similar restrictions being implemented in other United States coastal waterways.

Representative Peltola (D-AK) asked both Janet Coit and Frank Huglemeyer to “explain how marine businesses and particularly shipping companies and charter fishing operators have been consulted on the proposed rules, and how they will be included in any further regulatory developments.” Deputy Administrator Coit said multiple opportunities were allowed for the public to provide input and comment on the proposed rule. Mr. Hugelmeyer said the recreational marine industry was not made aware of this proposed regulation and that there was little dialog with NOAA regarding the development of the rule. Mr. Hugelmeyer shared that various attempts were made, on behalf of the recreational marine industry, to work collaboratively with NOAA, but those attempts were denied.

The Oversight Hearing created an open dialogue between NOAA and the recreational marine industry. Both parties agreed on the importance of right whale conservation, but opinions varied for the most effective way to achieve this goal. Further discussions and collaboration are necessary to strike a balance between conservation, access and the recreational marine industry viability. Notably, the proposed rule is still within the rule making process, meaning NOAA is reviewing comments submitted during the public comment period. Click here to see comments submitted by the MRAA. After analyzing these comments, and potentially making changes to the proposed rule, it will be sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs which will further review the proposed regulation.

The hearing offered valuable insights into the ongoing debate surrounding marine mammal protection and the recreational marine industry’s concerns, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to address conservation and economic considerations. As the dialogue continues, it is crucial for stakeholders to cooperate to find common ground and develop sustainability solutions of marine ecosystems and the recreational marine industry.

Currently, NOAA is considering similar restrictions in the Gulf of Mexico for the Rice’s whale. The MRAA wants to know how this will impact you and your business, so please take a survey and provide important data.

If you have any questions, or are interested in sharing how the proposed regulation will impact you and your business, please contact me (Chad@mraa.com), as we have plenty of media opportunities for impacted stakeholders.

RBFF Launches Fearless Fishing Line in Celebration of National Fishing and Boating Week 2023

• Partnership with Berkley Celebrates the Transformative Benefits of Fishing and Boating for Women

ALEXANDRIA, VA (June 5, 2023) – To celebrate National Fishing and Boating Week (NFBW), the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) announced a new product partnership with Berkley, a Pure Fishing brand: the Fearless Fishing Line. As part of the national Take Me Fishing™ campaign, this limited-edition fishing line was inspired by research conducted by RBFF and Ipsos showing women who fish are happier and healthier than those who do not.

A box of Fearless Fishing Line, created (Takemefishign.org and Berkley) to encourage more women to get out on the water, landing in water.

In addition to spotlighting the life-changing benefits of fishing and boating, Fearless Fishing Line was created to encourage more women to get out on the water. It will be available for a limited period through an online sweepstakes that begins on June 5, 2023, at www.fearlessfishingline.com. Select winners will also receive a $25 debit card to purchase a fishing license.

“The research is clear. Fishing and boating can have significant positive impacts on women,” said Rachel Piacenza, Senior Director of Marketing at RBFF. “We created this fishing line as a physical reminder of those benefits, and we hope it inspires more women to try fishing.”

“When RBFF and Take Me Fishing™ approached us with the opportunity to partner on Fearless Fishing Line, we knew it was something we wanted to tackle,” said Kimberly Hoffman, Director of Marketing and Communications for Pure Fishing. “Creating this line and the campaign around it is another important step toward increasing women’s participation in fishing and creating a more diverse, inclusive angling environment.”

Fearless Fishing Line is an extension of Take Me Fishing’s Find Your Best Self on the Water campaign, which launched on May 1, 2023. The campaign highlights research that shows fishing and boating can positively impact women. It also informs the public of the benefits of fishing, inspiring more women to try the activity.

The week-long celebration of National Fishing and Boating Week, June 3-11, 2023, also features free fishing days throughout the United States and is designed to increase access to fishing and boating and recruit the next generation of anglers and boaters.

For additional information on the campaign, including the research that inspired it and Fearless Fishing Line, visit here.

For more information and to enter the Fearless Fishing Line Sweepstakes, visit here.

Northpoint Taps Kenton Smith Marketing in New Marine Consulting Capacity

May 31, 2023, Alpharetta, Georgia – Northpoint Commercial Finance has retained established marketing expert Wanda Kenton Smith of Kenton Smith Marketing as its official marine division marketing consultant. 

Kenton Smith brings 40 years of proven marine experience and award-winning performance across multiple industry sectors to assist Northpoint in undertaking a variety of initiatives including marketing strategy, branding, external communications and outreach, media/advertising, events and public relations.

“Our goal is to continually improve and to develop an even stronger customer-focused synergy and we believe Wanda is especially well equipped to assist us in developing marketing strategies to better serve our customers,” said Russell Baqir, Senior VP of Northpoint Commercial Finance. 

Added Senior VP John Durnien, “Wanda brings decades of marine marketing expertise to Northpoint and shares our strong corporate commitment to enhancing the customer experience. This combination, coupled with her strategic mindset, deep industry knowledge and valuable connections, will not only help enhance our dealer and OEM programs, but also allow us to analyze and find new opportunities to contribute more fully to the marine industry overall, which is aligned with our long-term mission.” 

image of smiling Wanda Kenton Smith in white shirt wearing hoop earrings
Wanda Kenton Smith

“I’ve been a fan of Northpoint since its founding and have observed and admired the organization’s tremendous success and growth within the recreational marine industry,” added Kenton Smith. “I’m thrilled by the opportunity to work with this exceptional, customer-centric organization and look forward to collaborating on many exciting new customer-service and marketing initiatives.”

For more information regarding Kenton Smith Marketing, visit www.KentonSmithMarketing.com

About Northpoint Commercial Finance Northpoint Commercial Finance, with offices in Alpharetta, GA, and Burlington, ON, is owned by LBC Capital, a subsidiary of Laurentian Bank of Canada. Northpoint combines experience with advanced technologies, fresh ideas, streamlined processes, and a customer focus formed specifically for the varied needs and goals of each business. Northpoint’s inventory finance offerings drive sales, enhance cash flow, and improve profitability for both manufacturer and dealers. More information about Northpoint and their offerings is available at www.northpointcf.com.

Minnesota Passes Landmark Mandatory Boater Education Legislation

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA, May, 31 – The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) celebrates the successful passage of Mandatory Boater Education Legislation in its home state of Minnesota. This landmark legislation marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of boaters and all who enjoy aquatic recreation throughout the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

The new law, signed May 24, 2023, by Governor Walz, uses a phase-in approach to eventually require nearly every boater in Minnesota to complete a boater-education course and obtain a boater-education card before operating a motorized watercraft. The legislation is the result of collaborative efforts between the recreational boating industry, boating safety advocates and lawmakers who recognized the importance of promoting safe boating practices throughout Minnesota. The MRAA aligned with the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the Water Sports Industry Association and local Minnesota stakeholders to successfully pass the bill.

“It is important to recognize the leadership of Senators Hawj, Morrison and Hoffman and Representatives Koegel, Brand and Myers for being champions of this important legislation, fighting for its inclusion in this year’s Environment Omnibus Bill, and ultimately getting it passed” said Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager. “These elected officials put boating safety first and prioritized keeping all Minnesotans safe while on the water.”

Boater education courses provide beneficial instruction on navigation rules, safe boating practices, emergency procedures and environmental responsibility. Minnesota, through this mandated education, is taking proactive measures to reduce accidents and fatalities on its waterways, ensuring a safer recreational boating experience for everyone. Boater education is required in 36 U.S. states and passage of this legislation in Minnesota is long overdue.

Head shot of MRAA President Matt Gruhn in a blue collared shirt in front of wood backdrop
Matt Gruhn, MRAA President

“In a state with more than 800,000 registered boats and a strong on-the-water heritage, mandatory boater education is a logical step in ensuring the safety of the boating public while creating an overall safer boating community,” said Matt Gruhn, MRAA President. “It was crucial for the future of recreational boating and fishing in Minnesota to get this across the finish line. We will now work with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in overseeing the rollout of the program to ensure it is not overly burdensome for dealers.”

Mandatory boater education in Minnesota will use a phased-in approach, and by 2028 will require anyone born on or after July 1, 1987 to pass a course and receive a boater education certificate. The program will go into effect beginning on July 1, 2025, requiring anyone born on or after July 1, 2004, to take the course. The program must be approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), meaning out-of-state boaters who have passed an NASBLA-approved course can legally operate a boat in Minnesota. The Minnesota course, available online and in-person, will be offered by a variety of providers.

To learn the specifics of the legislation, read our blog or contact MRAA Government Relations Manager, Chad Tokowicz at chad@mraa.com.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Minnesota Passes Mandatory Boater Education Legislation

Minnesota has officially passed a Mandatory Boater Education Program, designed to equip boaters with essential knowledge and skills to keep the state’s waterways safer for all.

This legislation reflects Minnesota’s commitment to responsible recreation and supports its $6.9 billion recreational boating economy.

Background: From Failed Bill to Legislative Success

In 2022, a similar bill didn’t pass despite bipartisan support. Thanks to renewed efforts from MRAA, the National Marine Manufacturers Association, Water Sports Industry Association, and local partners, the initiative succeeded in 2023.

Legislative Champions

Key supporters included:

  • Senators: Hawj, Morrison, Hoffman
  • Representatives: Koegel, Brand, Myers, Rehm

Their advocacy helped push the legislation through within HF 2310, a broader environmental omnibus bill signed into law by Governor Tim Walz on May 24, 2023.

What the Law Requires

Effective Dates & Phase-In Plan

Mandatory education will be rolled out in phases based on birth year:

  • Effective July 1, 2025: Born on/after July 1, 2004
  • Effective July 1, 2026: Born on/after July 1, 2000
  • Effective July 1, 2027: Born on/after July 1, 1996
  • Effective July 1, 2028: Born on/after July 1, 1987

Course Requirements

The Minnesota DNR will create a NASBLA-approved online boater safety course that aligns with national standards and ensures cross-state recognition.

Boat Rental Rules

Starting in 2025, anyone renting a boat in Minnesota must:

  • Take a brief online exam
  • Receive a temporary certificate valid for 180 days

Exceptions

The law does not apply to:

  • U.S. Coast Guard license holders
  • Non-residents boating in MN for fewer than 60 days
  • Individuals operating boats under a dealer license

Why it Matters for Boaters and the Industry

Minnesota joins 36 other states in requiring boater education, aiming to:

  • Reduce boating accidents
  • Foster environmental stewardship
  • Strengthen the boating economy
  • Encourage lifelong participation in boating

A Safer Future on Minnesota Waters

With over 800,000 registered boats, Minnesota ranks second only to Florida in boat ownership. This law ensures our lakes stay safe, accessible, and welcoming for all generations of boaters.

For questions related to this legislation, please contact:

Chad Tokowicz

MRAA Government Relations Manager

202-737-9779

chad@mraa.com

Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager in blue Dealer Week shirt

Click here to learn more about the MRAA’s ongoing advocacy work. If you wish to receive quarterly updates on how MRAA’s Government Relations team is working for YOU, subscribe to our newsletter, The Dealer Advocate.

New Episode of ‘Discover Boating Safety Basics’ Launches

During National Safe Boating Week (NSBW) May 20-26, Discover Boating launched a new episode in its five-part digital video series in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, “Discover Boating Safety Basics” to support ongoing efforts around boater engagement and retention.

Discover Boating

In episode two, “Celebrate Safely,” boaters learn simple tips to enjoy themselves on the water while prioritizing safety. The video covers topics such as the importance of:

  • having a sober boat captain
  • wearing a life jacket
  • staying hydrated
  • behaving responsibly on the water

Marine dealers, marina owners and other industry stakeholders are encouraged to share these educational videos on their social media channels, websites, in showrooms and emails to help educate and connect with customers.

The Discover Boating Safety Basics video series can be found in the Industry Resource Center, where each episode will be added as they go live. Be sure to subscribe to the Discover Boating YouTube channel for more video content.

Leverage Credit-First Soft Pulls to Improve Your Dealership’s Results

Shopping for a vessel comes with all kinds of stressors for a consumer – some of which can affect their relationship with the dealer and lender. The decision to require a shopper to undergo a credit verification can be stressful for many consumers – for different reasons!

Consumers worry for various reasons, including:

  • Concern about the score that will come back on the other end;
  • Stress over whether the score will be high enough to qualify them for the boat they really want;
  • And fear that the act of running their credit specifically will “ding” their credit.

As a dealership, you have the opportunity to reduce this stress and worry with a soft-pull credit check.

Why are soft pulls so effective today?

A soft-pull credit check is similar to a simple background check. It allows the dealer and lender to review a shopper’s credit score and financial standing, but it does not impact their credit score, making it an effective tool.

Soft pulls are important to dealers and lenders for multiple reasons. Perhaps a shopper is unsure if they can afford a specific boat because of reduced cash flow amid a softening economy. A soft pull will alert them to their status if they’re pre-approved before moving forward with financing options.

Soft pulls will also strengthen consumer confidence and trust in making the right decision. Since they aren’t locked into anything, customers can resume shopping and even assess varying price ranges. Soft pulls benefit those who may be a little less confident about their credit standing.

Changing consumer preferences support the use of soft pulls

In the current era of digital retailing, consumers expect an experience offered by tools such as soft pull credit checks.

In a SalesForce survey of 7,000 consumers, 53 percent reported they would share personal data in exchange for personalized shopping experiences. Why is this important? Because today’s digitized boat-shopping process is all about personalization. 

Combining soft pulls with a ‘credit-first strategy’ is therefore imperative to the success of every dealer and transaction today. A fully personalized digital retailing system requires accurate monthly payment quoting early in the shopping process. Everything from vessel selection, financing, credit eligibility and trade-in valuations can affect a person’s payment composition. Obtaining credit at the beginning of the digital retailing process ensures a true personalized shopping experience that will help close more deals.

The right credit-first strategy, combined with a soft-pull approach, enables more seamless transactions in today’s digitized world of sales. Soft pulls work in concert with the credit-first approach and do not require a customer’s date of birth or social security number. Using just the customers’ name and address, soft pulls allow an early-stage snapshot of their credit profile, and insights into their buying power before you start building any deal.

Interest rates are changing more frequently currently, so establishing the right credit tier and payment options early in the shopping process will benefit everyone involved and add trust into the process. There is nothing worse than a customer assuming or estimating the payment in his or her mind throughout the transaction process, only to learn just how much fluctuating interest rates may affect the final deal inside the F&I manager’s office at the end.

Where soft pulls benefit other areas of a dealership

Aside from today’s digital shopping process, soft pulls also benefit dealers in the service lane. Combined with solutions that include equity calculators, perceptive dealers are now easily integrating these features into their daily workflows to build additional conquest marketing opportunities.

These additional tools built with soft-pull technology help dealers and service managers offer quick valuation calculations to show customers how and where it might make sense to consider a new boat rather than fix their current unit. This offers benefits to you and your customers:

  1. They make a wise decision with confidence.
  2. You can convince them to buy from you, not the competitor.

Trying to build a digital retailing system at your dealership without soft-pull technology is like building a boat without a motor. It might look nice, but you won’t get anywhere anytime soon.

About The Author: Ken Hill is managing director for 700Credit, an MRAA Education Champion and a leading provider of credit reports, compliance, identity verification and soft pull products. For more information, please visit www.700credit.com.

MRAA, Dealers Share Concerns at American Boating Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 16, 2023 – Last week, the recreational boating industry, including the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, visited Washington, D.C., for the annual American Boating Congress (ABC) hosted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association. MRAA staff, members of the MRAA Board of Directors and several MRAA members brought marine industry issues to Capitol Hill for one-on-one conversations with lawmakers.

MRAA Chairman of the Board Jeff Strong (center) joins MRAA President Matt Gruhn (left) and MRAA VP of Business Planning Mike Davin at the 2023 American Boating Congress.

ABC, an integral event for the recreational boating industry’s advocacy efforts, gives business leaders like marine dealers and others across the industry, the opportunity to discuss issues impacting their businesses and the recreational boating industry, with decision makers who determine policy and legislative efforts. These key conversations develop relationships between dealerships and other business leaders and members of Congress, laying critical groundwork for the MRAA government relations team.

“MRAA’s focus on federal, as well as state-based advocacy efforts has never been stronger, and with several dealers participating in this fly-in event for the first time, our connectivity with and visibility in front of members of Congress continues to grow,” says Matt Gruhn, MRAA President. “It’s critically important that dealer participation in these important efforts continues to expand and that we continue to strengthen our relationships in Washington so the business of boating isn’t caught off guard by bad policies and legislative threats.”

Members of Congress, including Representatives Garret Graves (R-LA-06) and Pete Stauber (R-MN-08) and Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND), provided key Congressional insights for attendees of ABC, and several members of Congress confirmed their support for recreational boating industry and policy priorities, while discussing current challenges this Congress.

From the left: Ben Palmer, Legislative Correspondant for Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN- 09), Alex Schnelle, Deputy Chief of Staff for Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager, Natalie Carrera, Director of Marketing and Global Communications for Indmar Produts, and Craig Cochran, Manufacturers Sales Rep at GSW and Associates


Attendees also received an update on the state of play on Capitol Hill from Politico bureau chief and senior political columnist Jonathan Martin. Martin discussed the impact current negotiations on the debt ceiling have for industry policy priorities while also providing a high-level overview of what to expect as the 2024 presidential race begins to pick up steam.

“ABC is a principal event for the recreational boating industry and dealers, because not only can we spotlight our industry and its top priorities, but the event also grants us an insider’s view on the key conversations taking place at the federal government level,” said Chad Tokowicz, Government Relations Manager, MRAA. “Armed with that insight, ABC attendees like MRAA’s members can then make genuine requests related to the boating industry’s needs for continued economic growth and sustainability.”

From the left: Jeff Angers, President Center for Sportfishing Policy, George Cooper, Partner Forbes Tate, and Paul Ryan, Partner at DCI Group.


During ABC’s scheduled programming, numerous presentations were made, discussing the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration’s Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule.  NOAA’s proposal to restrict all vessels 35 feet or longer to 10 knots between November and June on the Eastern Seaboard seeks to protect the endangered Right Whale. Expert speakers provide an overview of the current status of the rule as expectations for moving forward; a newly created Whale and Vessel Safety Task Force shared industry efforts to build solutions to create a safer boating environment, while maintaining access and minimalizing the impact to Right Whales. And Sen. Manchin provided a rousing overview, promising to fight NOAA’s proposal on behalf of the marine industry. Learn more about MRAA’s efforts for the Right Whale Rule and how to get involved.

“This is the essence of the American Boating Congress,” Tokowicz explains. “Industry relationships developed with key decision makers like Senator Manchin can serve to protect the health of our industry when bad policies and threats like this speed restriction pop up.”


During meetings on Capitol Hill, MRAA members met with their members of Congress to discuss a variety of MRAA policy priorities as well as issues directly impacting their business, like shortages in the marine industry workforce, concerns with dealership regulation, and impediments to access, like the speed restriction. Providing members of Congress with direct examples of how local businesses are being impacted proved crucial for highlighting the needs of the recreational boating industry, especially issues impacting the dealer on the frontlines.

If you have any questions about ABC or would like to plan to attend it in 2024, email Chad Tokowicz at chad@mraa.com.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas

At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Boaters Beware: E15 At Pumps This Boating Season

This boating season it is going to be imperative to pay attention at the pump, as an emergency waiver issued by the EPA will allow E15, a harmful fuel for boat engines, to be sold throughout the summer. E15, or gasoline that uses a 15 percent ethanol blend, is a widespread, common fuel type that can be harmful for recreational boat engines and should be avoided at all costs.

April 28, the Environmental Protection Agency formally issued an emergency fuel waiver that allows E15 gasoline to be sold throughout the summer, our boating season. Typically, in roughly two-thirds of the country, E15 cannot be sold from terminals starting May 1, and at retail stations starting June 1. E15 sales are usually halted over the summer as it is a more volatile type of fuel and can contribute to increased smog and air pollution.

Yet, even with these impacts to air quality and recreational vessels, the Biden administration has extended E15 sales primarily due to the war in Ukraine’s impact on both domestic and global energy markets. Surprisingly, this is not the first time that E15 sales have been extended in the summer. Last year, the EPA also issued a similar waiver allowing the sale of E15 throughout the summer, citing the same concerns due to limitations on our domestic fuel supply due to the war in Ukraine. Additionally, in 2019, former president Donald Trump, allowed for a summertime expansion of E15 in efforts to boost American energy independence and support farmers.

Despite the rationale behind the extension, the threat to the recreational boating industry, your customers and MRAA members is the same. Put simply, E15 is bad for boat engines.

Federal law prohibits the use of E15 in your vessel and E15 is also proven to cause damage to boat engines. A test done by Mercury Marine, under contract of the U.S. Department of Energy, found that all of the engines tested with E15 showed signs of elevated piston and exhaust temperatures, and according to Jeff Wasil, the Engineering Manager of Emissions Testing at BRP, this can be fatal for boat engines.

“Since marine engines can run for extended periods of time at wide-open throttle, any increase in exhaust gas temperature will cause issues,” Wasil noted.

E15 can also have negative effects on engine components if stored in the engine, fuel tanks and fuel lines for an extended period, as ethanol is a harsh solvent.

The threat posed by E15 is supported by a recent survey done by the National Marine Manufacturers Association, American Motorcyclist Association and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute that highlights a need for increased education and updated labeling. The survey found that only about 18 percent of consumers believe that the current E15 label used at gas pumps is effective in showing that E15 is hazardous to certain engine types. Furthermore, 77.5 percent of respondents cited red as the best color of label to convey a warning, which is currently in contrast with the current label color. With more new boaters on the water than ever before, it is imperative we educate boaters about the dangers E15 poses and how to spot it.

Consider using the below email template to educate your customers on the dangers of E15 this season and encourage them to avoid filling up at gas stations if at all possible.

The recreational boating industry is awaiting the reintroduction of H.R. 7731, the Consumer Protection and Fuel Transparency Act of 2022. This bill, originally introduced by Rep. Austin Scott (R-GA-8), would:

  • Define E15 as gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol;
  • Direct the EPA to revise labeling requirements for fuel pumps that dispense E15;
  • Direct the EPA to implement a public education campaign concerning the risks associated with improper use of E15.

The need for this legislation is further highlighted by the aforementioned survey and current lack of awareness and education among boat owners. 

If you have any questions about E15, details about the emergency rule or wish to support the legislation, please contact Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations at Chad@mraa.com


E15 Warning Email Template (below):

Email Subject Line: Be on the lookout for E15 fuel this boating season!

Dear [insert dealership name] Customer,

I hope all is well with you and that you are getting excited for the boating season. I am reaching out to you today to warn you that, due to an emergency fuel waiver issued by the federal government, E15 Fuel will be available throughout the boating season this year. E15 fuel, which is sold at regular gas stations, is extremely harmful for marine engines and should never be used in your boat. If you are trailering your vessel and filling up at a gas station, be certain you are not using E15 fuel. While it is required by law to be labeled, if you have any doubt, ask the station attendant.

Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions regarding E15 and how to properly fuel your boat. I look forward to seeing you and hope you have a wonderful boating season.

Sincerely,

[Insert Name]