Boating Safety

Arlington Pond is a lively recreational spot where motor boats, kayakers, paddleboarders and swimmers share water.  Safety is paramount.

Anyone who operates a motor greater than 25 horsepower must have a NH Safe Boater Education. Certificate to operate a boat on Arlington Pond.  Information can be found here: Marine Patrol Boating Education

Also, a free on-line Paddle safety course is available for those who prefer to use non-motorized boats.  Paddle Safety Course

Enforcement of boating laws and regulations is the responsibility of the New Hampshire Marine Patrol officers. Boaters must stop when signaled to do so by a law enforcement officer. These officers have full police powers and have the lawful right to stop and board your vessel at any time to check for compliance with federal and state laws.

Some basic boating regulations that operators should be aware of, not just for their safety, but to be courteous to other boat operators and land owners:

·         When operating a power-driven vessel, you must give way to any anchored or fishing boat, any vessel not controlled by a motor (sailboat, canoe/kayak), and swimmers/floaters.  If is the boater’s responsibility to be alert and ready to change course at any time.

·         When boating after sunset, speeds must be reduced to “headway speed” (the slowest speed at which it is still possible to maintain steering, or 6 miles per hour) and navigation lights must be on.  Boats without lights cannot be on the water after sunset.

·         Speeds must be reduced to “headway speed” (the slowest speed at which it is still possible to maintain steering, or 6 miles per hour) when you are within 150 feet of swimmers in the water, other vessels, rafts or floats, permitted swimming areas, docks or mooring fields or the shoreline.  You could be financially responsible if wake from your boat causes damage to a shoreline, another boat or an individual.

·         For boats that tow individuals who are skiing or tubing, there must be one spotter for each person being towed (for example, if there are 2 people on a tube, 2 spotters must be available to keep eyes on each of the tubers).  Further, there must be space on the vessel for each individual being towed.  This applies to both boats and personal watercraft who may tow skiers or tubers.

·         Be mindful that aquatic nuisances (weeds and invasive plants/species) can be easily spread to our lake from boats that have been in other bodies of water.  Help keep our lake safe by taking precautions when you take your boat to another location, and inquire about the precautions your guests have taken when you invite others to put their boat in our lake.

The entire boating guide is available here:  Boating Guide