THE HARBOR COLUMN:

Ahoy,

Congratulations to the Recreational Boaters of California group, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary as the nonprofit statewide advocacy organization working to protect and enhance the interests of the state’s boating public. If you are a recreational boater or you have been boating in California then you should thank this organization for being the recreational boaters’ voice at not only the state level, but the national level as well.

The organization was initially named Boat Owners Associated Together Inc. and adopted the Recreational Boaters of California name in 1982. Through the years, the organization’s efforts have involved virtually every aspect of boating that is considered in laws and regulations, including boat operating requirements, equipment, education, fuel and property taxes, registration fees, navigation, and berthing rates. Boaters have avoided many unnecessary and unreasonable costs or restrictions to be imposed on recreational boating activities.

The group develops and pursues policy positions as boating issues arise. One example is the organization’s efforts to preserve and enhance water quality with the application of unbiased, sound scientific studies.

Boaters should thank the voluntary directors who manage the organization and its government affairs program. Believe me when I tell you it is a lot of work for the volunteers.

Recreational Boaters of California is active within several forums as an advocate and liaison as part of its ongoing efforts to promote and protect the interests of California’s recreational boaters. These include but are not limited to the California State Legislature, California Governor’s Administration, California Resources Agency, California Department of Boating and Waterways, California Department of Fish and Game, and the California Department of Park and Recreation.

Tip of the week is to visit the group’s website at www.rboc.org for the latest updates, news releases, calls-to-arms and reports on government relations issues.

Lastly, join me at the Los Angeles Boat Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Feb. 9 for my live remote radio broadcast starting at 11 a.m. As a special treat, you can have your photo taken with our beautiful Boathouse Girls at the broadcast booth.

MIKE WHITEHEAD is the Pilot’s boating columnist. Send marine-related thoughts and story suggestions to mike@boathousetv.com or go to www.boathousetv.com.