Wake enhanced boating causing concern on area lakes

District Councilors heard about the impact and other issues from Safe Quiet Lakes

Growing concerns about wake-enhanced boating activities were presented to District of Muskoka Council during the May 19, 2026, meeting.

Safe Quiet Lakes (SQL) board member, Colleen Kennedy, presented survey findings highlighting concerns related to enhanced wakes, shoreline impacts, boating safety, noise, and affects to wildlife and waterfront infrastructure.

Kennedy told Council that survey results indicate enhanced wakes are an emerging concern among lake users, with 68 per cent of respondents saying enhanced wakes have increased over the past five years, and 34 per cent describing the increase as significant.

Survey findings elaborated about several top concerns, including swamping of loon and waterfowl nests, shoreline erosion, damage to docks and moored boats, and safety risks for paddlers, swimmers and people using smaller watercraft.

The presentation also suggested that most lake users support stronger protections and responsible boating practices. Survey results showed 92 per cent believe there is a responsibility to preserve the natural state of lakes, while 88 per cent said motorboat operators have greater responsibility to ensure the safe coexistence of activities on the water.

Kennedy noted that only a small segment of respondents — about 10 per cent — expressed markedly different views, including stronger support for fast powerboat activities and high boating traffic, “and think they should have the freedom to do what they want.”

The presentation outlined recommendations developed through the Safe Wakes Coalition, formed in 2024 to better understand and reduce the impacts of large boat wakes generated through wake-enhanced activities.

Recommendations included maintaining wake-enhanced activities at least 250 metres from shorelines, docks and structures, operating in water with a minimum depth of nine metres (30 feet), and ensuring sufficient open water for safe operation.

Supporting materials presented to Council included draft education and awareness campaigns promoting responsible wake surfing, maps identifying safe wake areas and information explaining how wake size, distance and water depth can affect shorelines, wildlife habitat and waterfront infrastructure.

The deputation also highlighted advocacy efforts, including monitoring regulatory approaches in other jurisdictions, improving voluntary restricted area applications and supporting future boating noise regulations.

It also outlined potential partnership initiatives with the District, including support for public education campaigns, improved awareness around responsible wake-enhanced boating practices, and collaborative efforts to protect shoreline ecosystems and waterfront communities.

SQL also encouraged continued dialogue and potential cooperation between municipalities, lake associations, and boating stakeholders on the issue.

District Chair, Jeff Lehman, expressed support for regulating change, especially with boundaries. He said, “I’m sure it lands with everyone in the room.”