Vermont Business Magazine As boaters visit Vermont’s lakes and ponds this spring and summer, the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) and partners are offering a few tips on how to stay safe and protect Vermont’s natural resources.
“This National Safe Boating Week, we want to encourage boaters to prioritize safety and environmental responsibility while enjoying Vermont’s lakes and ponds throughout the boating season,” said Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli.
Whether you launch your boat from a Vermont State Park, Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department (FWD) Access Area, or other public water access, use the following tips when boating:
Before boating:
- Ensure your boat is registered.
- Take a boater safety education course.
- Bring the right safety gear for people, the conditions, and the vessel.
- Clean, drain, and dry boats before getting into the water to stop the spread of aquatic introduced invasive species.
- Check the weather forecast, get familiar with known hazards, and bring a map.
- Get to know Vermont’s boating laws and rules such as the Use of Public Waters Rules, including Vermont’s wakesports rule. Be aware that these rules are subject to change.
- Read access area signage for important information about the area.
While boating:
- Wear a life jacket.
- Drive or operate boats at a no wake speed (or 5 mph) within 200 feet of the shoreline; swimming areas; someone in the water; a canoe or other boat; an anchored or moored boat containing an individual; and anchorages and docks.
- Limit wakesports using wakeboats to defined wakesports zones.
- Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or any other intoxicating substance.
- Follow all navigational rules when coming across other boats.
- Operate boats in a careful and responsible manner.
- Always respect public and private property.
After boating:
- Secure and properly dispose of trash or recycling.
- Clean, drain, and dry boats after getting out of the water to stop the spread of aquatic introduced invasive species.
- Maintain boats often to ensure safety and to prevent gas and oil spills.
View the Boating Resource Guide for more tips and to learn more about the rules.
The Vermont State Police (VSP) Marine Division and the FWD Warden Service enforce the Use of Public Waters Rules. Members of the public may report any issues or concerns related to violations of these rules to VSP and/or FWD.
5.21.2026. Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Website.
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Vermont Business Magazine