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ODNR Upgrades Horsepower Limit for Burr Oak Lake to Increase Fishing Access Motors greater than 10 horsepower can operate at "no wake" speed COLUMBUS, OH - In order to allow greater fishing access without altering the quiet recreational nature of Burr Oak Lake in Morgan County, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has modified the lake's horsepower regulation. With the change, boat motors greater than 10 horsepower are now allowed to operate on the lake, but only at "no wake" speeds. Previously, only motors less than 10 horsepower were permitted on Burr Oak Lake. The use of personal watercraft such as Wet Jets and Jet Skis continue to be prohibited. "This change to the horsepower limit is part of a pilot program that studies use of this state park lake, located in the southeastern Ohio region," said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. Ohio law classifies "no wake" as the slowest possible speed needed to maintain steerage and maneuverability of a boat. Boats with motors of 10 horsepower or less would continue to operate on the lake, as usual. The horsepower modification pilot study at Burr Oak Lake will be evaluated during the 2009 and 2010 boating seasons. Burr Oak Lake was selected for the pilot study because of its size - 664 acres - and ability to accommodate boats with larger motors. Ohio State Parks will work with the Division of Watercraft and others to make sure the new regulations are strictly enforced. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com. Source: ODNR |