NASBLA Public Library

Prepared for NASBLA's Waterways Management Subcommittee, this memorandum identifies the broad range of federal, tribal, state, local, commercial, nonprofit, and stakeholder organizations that directly or indirectly influence waterway management decisions in the United States. The document explains how these entities shape recreational and commercial boating through responsibilities such as waterway access, navigation, boating infrastructure, dredging, environmental protection, public safety, recreation management, and policy development. It also highlights the complex relationships among agencies and organizations whose decisions can either facilitate or restrict boating activities.

Serving as a reference for waterway managers and policymakers, the memorandum categorizes participating organizations by sector, discusses their respective roles and authorities, and illustrates how partnerships among government agencies, industry groups, advocacy organizations, and recreational user groups influence waterway management. The document was developed as a working reference and as a potential resource for future editions of A Guide for Multiple Use Waterway Management, providing a comprehensive overview of the diverse stakeholders involved in managing the nation's waterways.