News Release Archives - June 2009

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June 15, 2009

Be Courteous at Boat Ramps

Summer weekends at area lakes are often busy with people fishing, tubing, pleasure boating or enjoying time on a jet ski. Because of all the activity, boat ramps are usually congested and people can become frustrated and lose their patience.

Nancy Boldt, boat and water safety coordinator for the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, urges operators to plan accordingly when taking a boat to a lake or river this summer.

“There are a few simple procedures that will help speed up the process of launching and loading a boat,” Boldt said. “But most importantly, if you see someone struggling at the ramp, help.”

Launching

• Don't pull onto ramp until your boat is ready to launch.
• Prepare for launching in the parking area. Remove covers, load equipment, remove tie downs, attach lines and put in drain plug, before backing onto the ramp.
• When ready, pull into line to launch. Wait your turn. Be courteous.
• It takes at least two people to efficiently and courteously launch a boat: one to handle the boat and one to take care of the tow vehicle.
• Launch on the designated side of the ramp.

Loading

• Know which side of the ramp is designated for loading.
• Don't block the loading area with your boat until your tow vehicle is ready to load. Wait until you are clear of the launch area to unload gear.
• As soon as your trailer is in the water, load and secure your boat to the trailer.
• Remove boat and trailer from the water as quickly as possible.
• Get clear of the ramp. Pull into the parking area to finish securing your boat and unload gear.

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