Safe Quiet Lakes, in conjunction with the Safe Wakes Coalition, is launching a new education initiative to promote responsible wake-enhanced activities across Ontario’s lakes and waterways.
As activities such as wake surfing continue to grow in popularity, the campaign encourages boaters to follow a simple, science-informed approach when operating wake-enhanced boats:
• Stay at least 250 metres from shore, docks, and boathouses
• Operate in water a minimum of 9 metres deep
• Ensure there is adequate space for a safe, uninterrupted run
These practices are designed to help protect shorelines, reduce environmental impacts, and improve safety for all lake users, while supporting the long-term sustainability of wake-enhanced activities.
“This is about helping people enjoy wake-enhanced activities in a way that works for everyone on the lake,” said Colleen Kennedy, Chair of the Safe Wakes Coalition. “Distance, depth, and space all matter, and when they’re respected, everyone benefits.”
The recommendations are informed by a growing body of research from studies conducted across Canada and the United States, which show that wakes generated too close to shore or in shallow water can contribute to shoreline erosion, sediment disruption, and increased safety risks, particularly for swimmers, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
As part of the initiative, Safe Quiet Lakes has developed lake-specific maps available at safequiet.ca to help boaters identify where wake-enhanced activities can be done responsibly. A variety of Ontario lakes are currently mapped, with more to be added over time, demonstrating how these guidelines can be applied in real-world conditions.
Across North America, there is increasing attention on wake-enhanced activities, with a number of U.S. jurisdictions introducing guidelines and legislation related to distance and depth. This initiative focuses on building awareness and encouraging consistent, responsible practices among boaters.
Safe Quiet Lakes and the Safe Wakes Coalition are leading with education, working with marinas, dealers, lake associations, and the broader boating community to make these practices widely understood and easy to follow.
The campaign will roll out with education materials, marina partnerships, digital outreach, and community engagement throughout the boating season.
About the Safe Wakes Coalition
The Safe Wakes Coalition was formed in summer 2024 to better understand and reduce the impacts of large boat wakes, particularly those generated close to shore and through wake-enhancing activities such as wake surfing.
The coalition brings together lake associations and partners from across Ontario, including the Georgian Bay Association, Muskoka Lakes Association and the Haliburton Cottage Association, along with Safe Quiet Lakes, and collaborates with organizations across Canada and the United States.
Grounded in current research and extensive collaboration, the coalition’s work focuses on translating science into clear, practical guidance for boaters, as well as supporting education and outreach across the province.
From Safe Quiet Lakes
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