Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hosting their annual opportunity for the public to provide input on a variety of natural resource-related questions. This year's survey includes a couple of questions that would impact towed water sports in Wisconsin (No. 32, 42 and 43).

We need our following to understand what's happening here -- when regulations are set in place that impact any aspect of towed water sports, it's a dig to the industry as a whole and may lead to continued pushes for regulations that impact all boat types. The reality here is that environmentalists and people who don't participate in this sport outweigh us, making this fight an uphill battle.

Wisconsin has recently introduced a towed water sports-related bill—LRB 3518/1—that is supported by the recreational boating industry. The proposed legislation limits the setback for wakesurfing and wakeboarding to no more than 200 feet from a shoreline, dock, pier, boathouse or other structures that are either completely or partially on the water. It also allows for local units of government to create a less restrictive ordinance if provided with an exemption. These new rules will help clarify ongoing issues in local communities by setting a statewide standard. This legislation is a win-win for boaters, residents, the tourism industry and those who enjoy our lakes.