After wake debate, new speed limit coming to Lake Minnetonka
A boat on Lake Minnetonka. (FILE/KSTP)
The effort to limit large wakes on the shores of Lake Minnetonka has led to a new rule.
Starting Jan. 1, all boats within 300 feet of the shore are not allowed to faster than 5 mph.
That rule was approved earlier this month by the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District (LMCD) Board after officials got public input, looked at data and talked with connecting member cities and boating leaders.
The goal is to reduce large, boat-generated wakes near the shore.
“Many community members have voiced concerns about large wakes on Lake Minnetonka. At the same time, we know people enjoy using many different types of boats, including wake surf boats and large cruisers,” LMCD Board Chairperson Gregg Thomas said. “This rule change is one step that will help us protect the lake and make it safer for everyone.”
Some Minnetonka community members say large wakes pose challenges for people on small watercraft, and they also damage the shoreline, according to LMCD.
The current rule already affects personal watercraft that make repeated passes near the shoreline, but the new rule will extend that to all boats within 300 feet of the shoreline, doubling the current 150-foot rule.
The full ordinance can be found online.