New York Wakesurfing Demonstration Advances Policymaker Education and Dialogue

On August 25, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), in partnership with Boats by George, the Eastern New York Marine Trades Association, Schroon Lake Marina, Yankee Marine Group, LLC, and Wakes for Warriors, hosted New York policymakers and representatives from the Lake George Park Commission for an on-water wakesurfing demonstration and policy discussion on Lake George. The event provided policymakers an opportunity to experience wakesurfing firsthand while learning about responsible operation, boater education and the industry's commitment to preserving access to New York's public waterways.

Participants learned about responsible operation, boater education, advances in wake boat technology and the industry-led Wake Responsibly campaign before experiencing wakesurfing firsthand from both a surf boat and an observation boat. The demonstration also provided an opportunity for policymakers and industry leaders to discuss practical, education-focused approaches that promote safe, responsible boating while preserving access to New York's public waterways.

Conversation focused on responsible operation, boater education, advances in technology, and the industry-led Wake Responsibly campaign before experiencing wakesurfing firsthand from both a surf boat and observation boat. The event sparked conversations on how to further support safe, responsible boating across New York.

During the event, Dennis, a combat veteran and amputee with Wakes for Warriors, demonstrated wakesurfing and highlighted the sport's accessibility for participants of varying abilities. Dan also emphasized the meaningful role recreation can play in building confidence, connection and community.

Recreational boating generates $10 billion in annual economic impact in New York, supports nearly 35,000 jobs and over 2,300 businesses, and includes more than 428,000 registered boats statewide. These figures underscore the importance of policies that support responsible recreation while maintaining access to New York's waterways for boaters and families.

NMMA thanks its partners and participants for helping foster an informed, productive conversation about responsible boating and public water access. NMMA will continue working with policymakers and industry partners to advance education and responsible boating practices while advocating for fair, evidence-based policies that preserve access to New York's public waterways.

For more information or to learn about wakesurfing education opportunities, contact Lauren Hyland, NMMA's Director of Policy and Industry Engagement, at [email protected].