If you are a boater who depends on public access to our waterways, you are painfully aware of the need for more and better waterway access. Currently, boaters are forced to endure absurdly long waits, lack of proper parking, and limited access to our waterways. If you have ever attempted to launch at Boggy Point or Cotton Bayou after 8:00 am on a weekend you know exactly what I’m talking about!

Our areas lack of adequate waterway access isn't just an inconvenience or nuisance. It has created (very real) public safety concerns. The proposed OrangeBeach Boat Launch Facility on OldRiver would provide a substantial amount of relief.

Unfortunately, a select group (with Private access to our water) is fighting hard to ensure that this Boat Launch Facility is never built. To voice their opposition, they have inundated the Governor, Commissioner of Conservation, and our local government officials with emails, phone calls, and letters.

In order to prevent these privileged few from imposing their will over the right of every citizen of Alabama to adequate waterway access, we have launched a grass roots campaign. We urge you to join us in our effort and flood Montgomery, and the City of Orange Beach with phone calls, emails, and letters of support for this project. 

Visit our Government Officials Page  for email addresses, mailing addresses, and phone numbers to voice your SUPPORT.

 FACTS About the Boat Launch Facility

(This information was provided by the City of Orange Beach)

Alabama Recreational Boating Industry
Economic Impact Fact Sheet [1]

Registered Recreational Boats (2006)                                                                                                                 271,658

National Rank in Registered Recreational Boats                                                                                                     17

Documented Recreational Vessels                                                                                                                     1,619

New Retail Sales (Powerboat, Motor, Trailer & Accessories) 2006                                                           $380 Million

National Rank in New Retail Sales                                                                                                                          15

Active Boat Builders (2006)                                                                                                                                     8

Number of Boat Manufacturing Facilities (2006)                                                                                                       8

Number of Marinas (2006)                                                                                                                                    137

National Rank in Number of Marinas (2006)                                                                                                            21

[1] Trip Spending in GulfCoastRegion (2006) ___________________________________$947 Million

FY (2007) Allocation from Sport Fish Restoration & Boating Trust Fund

Account (59 percent generated from excise tax on motorboat fuel) ________________$5.1 Million

       2006 Recreational Boating Statistical Abstract, National Marine Manufacturers Association 2007.

[1] Trip spending by boaters includes boater spending on marina/launch/pump out fees; restaurant meals; groceries/take-out food and drinks; auto gas/oil; shopping/souvenirs; recreation and entertainment; lodging; and other related spending. 


    

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