NASBLA Public Library

This survey report documents state and stakeholder priorities identified through NASBLA’s Waterway Management Task Force and provides a data-driven assessment of emerging challenges impacting multiple-use waterways across the United States and territories. The resource captures feedback from Boating Law Administrators, law enforcement agencies, educators, planners, and industry stakeholders regarding operational concerns such as wakes and wake activities, boating traffic management, recreational user conflicts, regulatory zoning, public outreach, and enforcement priorities.

The findings support implementation of the Guide for Multiple Use Waterway Management by helping agencies identify areas requiring policy development, stakeholder engagement, education initiatives, and operational planning. Survey results highlight the growing importance of boating traffic management, public compliance, user education, and wake-related management strategies in reducing safety risks and minimizing conflicts among recreational, commercial, and shoreline users. This resource is intended to assist NASBLA members in evaluating current management practices, informing regulatory decisions, and supporting collaborative, evidence-based waterway management efforts.