NASBLA Public Library

This legislative testimony by Professor William Banholzer provides a technical and hydrodynamic analysis of wake boat setback proposals considered during state-level policy discussions concerning recreational towing operations and shoreline protection. Drawing upon peer-reviewed research, fluid mechanics principles, and comparative vessel wake analysis, the testimony critiques methodologies used in several wake-impact studies and evaluates the scientific basis for varying setback distances associated with wakesurfing operations. The document discusses hydrodynamic benchmarking, wave energy dissipation, shoreline erosion factors, and vessel operating characteristics within comparable speed regimes. Particular attention is given to the use of volumetric Froude number analysis and the importance of evaluating recreational vessel wakes under equivalent operating conditions. For Boating Law Administrators, policymakers, marine law enforcement agencies, and waterway managers, this resource offers insight into one perspective frequently presented during legislative and regulatory discussions concerning wake boat operations, setback standards, and evidence-based waterway management approaches