As part of our mission statement, “We actively gather information and communicate our views to educate boaters, external interests, and public officials.” Let’s step away from the concerns of Dana Point Harbor for a moment and focus on some news at the Federal level which all Dana Point boaters should be aware of and concerned about.
As part of our mission statement, “We actively gather information and communicate our views to educate boaters, external interests, and public officials.” Let’s step away from the concerns of Dana Point Harbor for a moment and focus on some news at the Federal level which all Dana Point boaters should be aware of and concerned about.
As published in the Coast Guard’s 6/24 LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS, it appears that the USCG has concluded that electronic and virtual markers and guidance (V-AIS) are sufficient, and sound or whistle buoys or lighted buoys are no longer needed to guide recreational and other mariners into port in low visibility or bad weather conditions.”
Many of the light and/or sound markers to be decommissioned are at the entrance of California harbors.
Recreational Boaters of California (RBOC), a non-profit government advocacy organization led by volunteer boaters and sailing leaders from across California, who inform lawmakers of California boaters’ needs, and advocate boater positions on legislation and regulations recently sent an urgent request that the Guard reconsider this planned mass removal of tangible aids to navigation. “Literally every boater, sail racing group, and day sailor we’ve had the chance to consult so far, since your bulletin last month, thinks it’s a bad idea, if not actively dangerous.”
To read a copy of the advocacy letter sent by RBOC to the USCG, click here. For more information on RBOC and its advocacy efforts review the information on their website at rboc.org.
News of the Legal Front:
Regarding the Appeal, the Court granted DPHP a 60-day extension to file their Brief. It is due on May 24th, 2024.
Your incredible support of our legal efforts through generous donations to our legal fund has been instrumental over the past several years, and we are immensely grateful for it. However, our journey continues as we navigate the appeal process, and your continued support is invaluable. Your contributions can truly make a difference in our pursuit of justice. Click here to donate and be a part of our ongoing mission. With your help, we are steadfast in our belief that our Appeal holds merit, and together, we can make a meaningful impact.
Fun Upcoming Events:
Watch for future announcements about a boater ice cream social we will be having on Saturday, June 22nd, 2024, at the Sailing and Events Center. It will be a fun afternoon for boaters to get together, catch up on harbor happenings, and make new friends!
The Dana Point Swap Meet is on April 20th from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the West Basin Cove parking lot. Admission is free. We would appreciate it if you had good-quality marine items and were willing to donate them. Please email or call us at the number below at your earliest convenience. Donate any boating items, fishing equipment, surfing, or SUP items.
Next up: In our next newsletter we should have an update for you on day-use boater parking, dry storage, and Fund 108. Stay tuned!
#dpboaters
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