The Oregon State Marine Board is considering implementing a rule that would enforce the recommendation of the Forest Service to make Waldo Lake gas motor free.

Public comments will be accepted through December 15, but you can also show your support at a public hearing in Bend on December 10.

What: Waldo Lake Gas Motor Ban Hearing

Where: Bend Fire & Rescue Training Center, Classroom 1, 63377 Jamison Rd., Bend, OR

When: Thursday, December 10, 6:00 pm

Oregon Wild and our supporters have fought for over a decade to ensure the purity and solitude of Waldo Lake is maintained for future generations. Lawsuits and a vocal minority opposed to the ban have delayed implementation. This could be the chance to finally create the largest non-motorized lake in Oregon!

Please attend this hearing and let the Marine Board members know that you want Waldo protected for current and future lake users.

More info on the proposed rule.

Suggestions for your testimony:

In your testimony or written comments it is best to talk about your own personal experiences at Waldo Lake and why having a clean and quiet lake would enhance your future visits to this Oregon wonder.

You can also use the following suggested points in your testimony:

• It’s great that the state of Oregon and the U.S. government are working together to protect Waldo Lake.
• Waldo Lake exhibits globally significant water quality and beauty. It must be protected for current and future generations.
• Let’s recognize Waldo’s special character by keeping it safe from the pollution and noise of internal combustion motors.
• There are hundreds of lakes in Oregon and many nearby where gas motor boats are allowed to operate.
• Implementing a phase-out of gas motors on Waldo will help the Forest Service and the State of Oregon provide for a wider variety of recreation opportunities for those who enjoy the outdoors.
• Quiet electric motors as still allowed and are available for those who need them.
• The proposed rule has reasonable exceptions for emergencies.