Making waves about wake surfing | WTAQ News Talk | 97.5 FM · 1360 AM

TOWN OF DAYTON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The wakesurfing debate is once again at the forefront in the Waupaca County towns of Farmington and Dayton.

“Wakesurf boats, when used according to manufacturer’s instructions, maintaining a safe distance from shore and operating in water depths that minimize impact on the lake environment, do not pose a threat,” one resident said.

On Wednesday, the boards of the two municipalities held a joint public listening session on a possible ordinance. Farmington previously had restrictions on wakesurfing, but these were rescinded months later after threats of legal action.

“It’s a misconception that Dayton and Farmington don’t have the right to do this,” said one attendee. “Dayton and Farmington have a duty to operate and protect the health, safety and welfare of the people and environment of the cities for which they are responsible.”

Wakesurfers use special tanks that create a larger wake than other boats. Those who dispute the activity say it has caused safety and environmental problems.

“We have a lot of people using the Chain of Lakes. We are very lucky with what we have here,” said another resident. “I would hate to see it destroyed by people who don’t know what’s out there and how they can get hurt so quickly or have their property destroyed.”

A recent poll from the Wisconsin Conservation Congress shows overwhelming support for restrictions on wake surfing. Local lake association members say this is also the case in Waupaca County. But those opposed to a regulation question the legitimacy of the numbers and say there are plenty of responsible wake boat owners.

“We’re on a slippery slope of what’s next that we say we can’t do,” one resident said. “Anyone can tell you you can’t do this, you can’t do this. I hit these big waves. I can’t say it was the boats fault, I think it was my fault.”

The municipal authorities have not yet indicated when they will take action on the draft ordinance.

A joint public hearing is also scheduled for the cities of Lind and Dayton next Tuesday at 5 p.m