Portland Personal Injury Law Blog

Last year, it became a requirement for all people who use boats that are 10 feet or longer to obtain a permit. The permit costs just $7 and is good for two years. However, a bill is being presented to the Oregon legislature that would repeal the need for a permit.

Rep. Bill Kennemer (R) of Oregon City has introduced House Bill 3121, which would eliminate the need for people who operate a manually propelled boat to obtain an aquatic invasive species prevention permit.

According to the Oregon State Marine Board, “aquatic invasive species seriously damage waterbodies. Species like the quagga mussel and Eurasian watermilfoil ‘hitchhike’ from one body of water to the next, primarily on boats. Revenues from permits will fund a new statewide prevention program to help protect our waters.”

The State Marine Board also points out that these species can cause economic and environmental harm. They could threaten hydropower, irrigated agriculture, drinking water, recreation and salmon recovery.

So, why should the permit and associated revenue be repealed? Rep. Kennemer argues that canoes and kayaks are not part of the problem and they are typically drained and wiped down between uses. He also points out that he only wants the permit requirement repealed for small, non-motorized boats.

“It’s the big boats that come in with 60 gallons of bilge water that are the problem,” he said.

Kennemer goes on to say that small boat owners also don’t realize they need to have the permit and end up paying hefty fines in excess of $100.

Changes to the permit were implemented so that this year boaters can buy annual or two-year Tyvek tags and stickers that can be attached to a rowboat, kayak or canoe. The previous permits were inconvenient paper slips that are hard to keep dry.

Last summer, the Marine Board said the approximate $640,000 in revenue from the permit program funded five mobile decontamination units and inspection teams in Salem, Clackamas, La Grande, Central Point and Madras. It also paid for signs at boat ramps and other areas, brochures, posters, and training.

Whether an aquatic invasive species prevention permit is required in the future or not, it’s up to all boaters, whether you are in a canoe or a larger boat, to educate yourself on the safety issues related to your watercraft. Know what permits are required and enjoy your time on the water with your safety and the safety of others in mind.