Dock proximity a frequent complaint at J. Lake

Post date: Sep 18, 2009 12:38:31 AM

By HARRY G. PERKINS Hub Regional Correspondent, September 17, 2009; Kearney HUB on line at http://www.kearneyhub.com

JOHNSON LAKE - Most of boating safety violations at Johnson Lake are committed by cabin owners, a Nebraska Game and Parks supervisor said.

"Enforcement officers are on the lake every weekend with additional officers during holiday periods," Roger Thompson, a Game and Parks supervisor from North Platte, told the Johnson Lake Development Board of Directors Tuesday. "Johnson Lake is a priority lake for us."

Thompson was invited to address the board after members recently complained they rarely see enforcement officers.

He admitted officers don't maintain a high profile as part of their enforcement strategy. "If they know we're there, they just clear out," Thompson said.

The principal violation is failing to obey the 90-foot rule by users of personal watercraft and water skiers.

"I honestly don't think they're aware of the rule," he said. It prohibits users of watercraft from being within 30 yards of a boat dock. That violation draws the most complaints, Thompson said.

Age violations and having an open container of alcohol on board also are frequent complaints. No one younger than 14 years of age is to operate a watercraft, and operators younger than 18 are required to take a boating safety class. Drinking while boating is a violation on any public body of water.

In other matters, the board re-elected Joann Wieland to another term as president. Adam Schwindt was elected treasurer. Both are for two-year terms.

Schaben Sanitation of North Platte submitted the low bid to provide weekly refuse service for $26,568 per year for two years.

The board tabled the proposed budget.