With the arrival of spring comes a new boating season. It’s off to a floating start, but there are still bumps on the water, including difficulties brought by the economy. This makes potential boaters more hesitant to invest in new purchases. Fortunately, many current boaters already have what they need to enjoy life on the water. Financial strains make boating even more essential, as a release from all of the stresses of daily life.

There are some signs of economic growth. Sea Ray Boats is one of many boat manufacturers that has returned some of its employees to work, including 150 at two of its plants in East Tennessee, divided into nearly 100 at Forks of the River Industrial Park in East Knox County, and about 50 at the plant in Venore.

In this issue, we explore Doral Boats International and vessels from their Elite Series and their Express Cruisers. The Port of Call features Muskegon, Michigan, a “boaters’ paradise.” Boating opportunities abound on the sheltered waters of Muskegon Lake and of Lake Michigan, and Muskegon itself provides four launch ramps. Visitors have opportunities to fish the lakes, relax on the docks, golf, swim, play other sports, or enjoy various cultural events, including musical performances or museums.

Three of our features compliment each other: “Dredging Shallow Harbors,” “Climate Change” and “Factors Affecting Lake Levels.” “Dredging Shallow Harbors” discusses the need for this action. Dredging is necessary so that boaters can continue to access the harbors. Dropping lake levels reduce the amount of room available for mariners to boat. Climate change is one of the causes of lower “heads” or water heights.

In addition, “Dredging Shallow Harbors” includes the idea that the maintenance of harbors is somewhat neglected by the federal government. “Climate Change” includes information on changing regulations for boaters. “Factors Affecting Lake Levels” discusses why water levels in the Great Lakes are decreasing, how much of a role dredging is playing in the changing St. Clair River levels, and whether the government should construct gates to control the flow of this body of water.

All of these issues affect boating. We appreciate your readership, and hope that you will take the time to become a member by visiting our web site at greatlakesboatingfederation.com. To review the actions that we have taken on your behalf, please see page 8. You owe it to yourselves to join the Great Lakes Boating Federation. We are the only organization in the Great Lakes region investigating the issues that matter to you. Thank you for your loyalty. We look forward to hearing from you.