More powerful boats can cause shoreline erosion, release more phosphorous, and adversely impact water vegetation and wildlife habitat areas. Results of a new study by the University of Minnesota confirm profound sediment disturbance even at significant depths and distances from shorelines:

• When under typical wake boat operating conditions, wake boats require distances over 500 feet from the shoreline/docks to decrease their wake wave characteristics to levels like a ski boat under typical planing conditions.
• Wake boat propeller wash can scour the lake bottom and uproot aquatic plants in up to 20 feet of water.

The study specifically recommends:

“It is recommended that wakeboats operate in 20 ft of water or greater when in surfing mode to minimize impacts on the lake bottom.”

This research provides scientific backing for the growing movement to regulate wake surfing. The number of Wisconsin towns with wake surfingordinances has now reached 59, with 25 of those enacted just since January 1st, 2025.

LINK: See a summary of the University of Minnesota studyhere

LINKS:Click here for more information from Oneida County Clean Waters Action, andhere for Wisconsin Lakes Association