2002 News Releases

12/30/2002

The U.S. Coast Guard warns all mariners that certain marine television antennas may interfere with the performance of Global Positioning System receivers. The interference can result in inaccurate position information or a complete loss of GPS signals.

This is a potential hazard to navigation, for both the operator of the vessel with the television antenna and for nearby boaters as the interference is not limited to the GPS equipment onboard the vessel with the antenna. In some cases, vessels up to 2000 feet away from an active antenna have reported interference.

The Federal Communications Commission identified the following models of antennas as having potential problems during investigations of GPS interference:

TDP (Tandy Distribution Products) Electronics - MINI STATE Electronic Amplified UHF/VHF TV Antenna - Models 5MS740, 5MS750, 5MS921
Radio Shack Corporation - Long Range Amplified Omni Directional TV Antenna - Model 15-1624
Shakespeare Corporation - SeaWatch - Models 2040 (Code date 02A00), 2050 (Code date 03A00)

If mariners experience outages or degradation of their GPS receiver operation, they should perform an on-off test of their marine TV antenna. If turning off the power to the antenna results in improvement in the GPS receiver performance, the antenna may be the source of interference. In that case, the mariner should contact the manufacturer of the antenna and identify the symptoms.

It is stressed that the GPS interference problem may not be limited to the models listed above. If mariners identify another model with a GPS interference problem, or if turning off the antenna does not improve the GPS receiver performance, the Coast Guard requests they contact the 24-hour Navigation Information Service at nisws@navcen.uscg.mil or (703) 313-5900.

GPS is a satellite-based radionavigation system that permits land, sea and airborne users to determine their three-dimensional position, velocity and time, 24 hours a day in all weather, anywhere in the world.

11/15/2002

At a meeting on November 14, the California Boating and Waterways approved $2,457,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility grant projects. The approved projects are:

Fresno County - Mendota Delta Boat Launching Facility -- A $1,127,000 grant to the City of Mendota for the third and final phase of construction of improvements including a new two-lane concrete boat launching ramp and boarding float, paved of an access road and parking for 50 vehicle/trailers, a flush restroom, sidewalks, a fish-cleaning station, a water well, underground power lines, lighting, landscaping, irrigation and signs.

San Bernardino County - Jack Smith Park Boat Launching Facility, Colorado River -- A $174,000 grant to the City of Needles for the initial phase of a $1,674,000 project to dredge the boat launching channel, demolish the old boat launching ramp and build a new four-lane ramp with two new boarding floats, expand the existing parking area, replace the restroom, extend the water and sewer lines, and add a new entrance booth, fish-cleaning station, shade structure, boat washdown, sidewalk, slope protection, landscaping and signs.

San Joaquin County - Buckley Cove Boat Launching Facility -- A $100,000 grant to the City of Stockton for the first phase of construction of improvements including replacing the old boat launching ramp and apron with a new four-lane ramp and apron, replace the boarding float abutments, gangways and stairs with new abutment and barrier-free gangways, extend three of the four existing boarding floats, replace four wood piles, rehabilitate the existing parking area, replace concrete curbing, install slope protection, and install security fencing, landscaping and signs.

San Joaquin County (Cont'd.) - Louis Park Boat Launching Facility -- A $792,000 grant to the City of Stockton for improvements including replacing the existing two-lane boat launching ramp with a four-lane ramp, adding two boarding floats, extending and resurfacing/striping the parking area, constructing a sidewalk, safety railing, and a shade structure, and installing drainage, landscaping and signs.

Santa Cruz County - South Harbor Boat Launching Facility -- A $264,000 grant to the Santa Cruz Port District for the initial phase of construction of improvements including the removal and replacement of the existing five-lane boat launching ramp and apron, timber support piling, boarding float, abutment and gangway; the installation of an additional boarding float and walkway float; and the installation of slope protection, lighting landscaping and signs.

Department grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

11/15/2002

At a meeting on November 14 in Monterey, the California Boating and Waterways Commission elected officers for 2003:

Michael L. Beatie, of Corte Madera, was re-elected to his second consecutive term as Chairman of the Commission. He is a senior vessel master for the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District in Larkspur. He has held the position of captain on several vessels and participated in the America's Cup in Australia in 1986 and 1987. Commissioner Beattie also serves on the Office of Oil Spill Prevention and Response's Harbor and Safety Committee, and is a member of the St. Francis Yacht Club.

Frederic A. Heim, of Encino, was elected Vice Chairman. He served as a member of the Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners from 1974 to 1987, during which time he served as President for seven terms. He was Commissioner of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power from 1977 to 1978. Mr. Heim co-founded five technology companies in the semi-conductor and computer field from 1955 to 1990, the most recent one, Computer Memories, Inc., a manufacturer of disc drives. He is also a retired veteran of the United States Navy.

The seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission provides advice and consent on Department of Boating and Waterways loans and grants, and advises the Department on all matters within its jurisdiction. Members do not receive a salary. The positions require Senate confirmation.

11/15/2002

Rolling Hills Estates - Boating and Waterways Commission Vice Chairman, Harry L. Nelson, Jr., passed away on November 13, 2002 at the age of 74 due to complications from cancer. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joyce Wilson Nelson, four children, Anne Gravatt, Nancy Davis, Susan Adamsen and Hunt Nelson, and nine grandchildren.

"We are very saddened by Harry's passing, and extend our condolences to his family," said Raynor Tsuneyoshi, Boating and Waterways Director. "Harry was a fascinating individual, and a valued member of the commission, who provided great expertise on marina management and operation. We are really going to miss him."

Mr. Nelson was founder, president and CEO of Almar Ltd., a development and management company specializing in waterfront boat berthing facilities. He served as a member and director of the Wilshire Bank from 1979 to 1989, and was a former president of the Marina Recreation Association from 1980 to 1983. He also served in the National Guard from 1948 to 1951 and the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1952. Mr. Nelson earned an LLB degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law.

The seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission provides advice and consent on Department of Boating and Waterways loans and grants, and advises the Department on all matters within its jurisdiction.

11/05/2002

At a meeting set for November 14, 2002, the California Boating and Waterways Commission will consider approval of $2,457,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility grant projects. The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled to convene at 8:30 a.m. at the Monterey Marriott Hotel, 350 Calle Principal, Monterey, California. The proposed projects are:

Fresno County - Mendota Delta Boat Launching Facility -- A $1,127,000 grant to the City of Mendota for the third and final phase of construction of improvements including a new two-lane concrete boat launching ramp and boarding float, paved of an access road and parking for 50 vehicle/trailers, a flush restroom, sidewalks, a fish-cleaning station, a water well, underground power lines, lighting, landscaping, irrigation and signs.

San Bernardino County - Jack Smith Park Boat Launching Facility -- A $174,000 grant to the City of Needles for the initial phase of a $1,674,000 project to dredge the boat launching channel, demolish the old boat launching ramp and build a new four-lane ramp with two new boarding floats, expand the existing parking area, replace the restroom, extend the water and sewer lines, and add a new entrance booth, fish-cleaning station, shade structure, boat washdown, sidewalk, slope protection, landscaping and signs.

San Joaquin County - Buckley Cove Boat Launching Facility -- A $100,000 grant to the City of Stockton for the first phase of construction of improvements including replacing the old boat launching ramp and apron with a new four-lane ramp and apron, replace the boarding float abutments, gangways and stairs with new abutment and barrier-free gangways, extend three of the four existing boarding floats, replace four wood piles, rehabilitate the existing parking area, replace concrete curbing, install slope protection, and install security fencing, landscaping and signs.

Louis Park Boat Launching Facility -- A $792,000 grant to the City of Stockton for improvements including replacing the existing two-lane boat launching ramp with a four-lane ramp, adding two boarding floats, extending and resurfacing/striping the parking area, constructing a sidewalk, safety railing, and a shade structure, and installing drainage, landscaping and signs.

Santa Cruz County - South Harbor Boat Launching Facility -- A $264,000 grant to the Santa Cruz Port District for the initial phase of construction of improvements including the removal and replacement of the existing five-lane boat launching ramp and apron, timber support piling, boarding float, abutment and gangway; the installation of an additional boarding float and walkway float; and the installation of slope protection, lighting landscaping and signs.

Department grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

09/20/2002

At a meeting on September 19 in South Lake Tahoe, the California Boating and Waterways Commission approved $22,699,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility loan and grant project funding. The approved projects are:

El Dorado County - El Dorado Beach Boat Launching Facility, Lake Tahoe -- A $449,000 grant to the City of South Lake Tahoe for improvements including the construction of a new parking area with 40-50 vehicle/trailer spaces; modifications to the road into the existing parking area; upgrading the restrooms; relocation of lighting in the existing parking area; and a project sign.

Lassen County - Canyon Dam Boat Launching Facility, Lake Almanor -- A $150,000 grant to the U.S. Forest Service for the first phase of construction of a $660,000 project, to include the reconstruction and widening of the existing boat launching ramp; installing a new boarding float; installing a new vault-style restroom, installing irrigation, and replacing signs.

Los Angeles County - Alamitos Bay Marina, Basin 8 -- A $1 million loan, the fourth and final phase of a $2,650,000 Department loan to the City of Long Beach for the construction of a $3,202,000 project on the Los Cerritos Channel. The project includes the construction of a 30-berth marina, with a 45-space parking area, restroom, a dock and landside utilities, landscaping, signs and ancillary items.

San Joaquin County - Morelli Park Boat Launching Facility, San Joaquin River -- A $2,245,000 grant to the City of Stockton for improvements to include widening the ramp and adding a turnaround; installing three new boarding floats; reconfiguring and repaving the parking area and access road; upgrading the restroom for barrier-free access; constructing sidewalks, slope protection, drainage, a kiosk and gate; and adding lighting and electrical service, water and sewer lines, security fencing, and signs.

Stockton Waterfront Marina, San Joaquin River -- An $8,600,000 loan to the City of Stockton, the second phase of $13,300,000 in Department loans for a $17,720,000 project to improve the marina, including, replacing the existing berths with 298 new berths (134 of which will be covered); installing new pilings; adding six standard and six barrier-free gangways; repaving and upgrading parking for 375 spaces; building a 150-space dry stack storage building at the nearby Morelli Park Boat Launching Facility; and installing dockside electrical, water, fire and communication utilities; and adding drainage and six security gates.

Sutter County - Tisdale Boat Launching Facility, Sacramento River -- A $960,000 grant to the County of Sutter for the construction of a boat launching facility on the Sacramento River, to include a two-lane ramp, a 35-space vehicle/trailer parking area and slope protection.

Yuba County - Camp Far West, North Recreation Area Boat Launching Facility -- A $150,00 grant to the South Sutter Water District for the first phase of a $1,568,000 project on the Bear River to build a new two-lane ramp with turnaround, a boarding float and gangway, paved parking for 28 vehicles and 48 vehicle/trailers, a restroom, walkways, slope protection, drainage, utilities and lighting.

Cottage Creek Boat Launching Facility, New Bullards Bar Reservoir -- An $85,000 first phase grant to the Yuba County Water Agency for an $845,000 project to construct improvements to the boat launching facility, including repairing and expanding the parking area, repaving the access road, three new two-unit vault restrooms, a sidewalk, drainage and oil separation basins, chain link safety fences, erosion control seeding and signs.

In addition, the following consent calendar projects were approved:

GRANTS

LOANS

Department loans and grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

09/12/2002

The 2002-03 State budget Governor Gray Davis signed on September 5 includes $88,652,000 in expenditures for the Department of Boating and Waterways.

Boating and Waterways' proposed budget includes $19,298,000 for loans to public agencies to construct and improve marinas; $3,750,000 to be made available for loans to private sector marina owners to construct and improve marinas; $16,665,000 for grants to public agencies to construct and improve boat launching facilities; $9,792,000 for capital outlay projects to construct and improve boating facilities on state lands; $9,025,000 in aid to local agencies for boating law enforcement; $6,513,000 for beach renourishment and erosion control; $3,603,000 in federal funds, for a variety of safety and education boating programs; $750,000 for abandoned watercraft abatement grants; $1,753,000 for vessel sewage pumpout grants, and $1,100,000 for a transient docking facility grant program.

Of the $9,792,000 capitol outlay budget, $4,395,000 is for the Boating Instruction Safety Center (BISC) construction program, including $3,822,000 for working drawings and construction of a BISC at CSU/Humboldt in Eureka; $445,000 for project planning and working drawings for a BISC at CSU/Channel Islands at Channel Islands Harbor; and $128,000 for preliminary plans for a BISC at California State University/Sacramento, at Lake Natoma. These new facilities will allow for both on-the-water and in-the-classroom boating safety education and instruction.

Funding for DBW is derived primarily from boating gasoline taxes, vessel registration fees, and loan repayments.

09/12/2002

AB 2005 (Nakano), sponsored by the Department of Boating and Waterways, has been passed by the Legislature and signed by Governor Davis. The bill requires a person convicted of any vessel moving violation to pass a boating safety course. Under previous law, convictions for reckless and negligent operation, violating personal watercraft law, and violating the federal rules of the road were omitted from the safety course requirement.

"Targeting persons convicted of boating law violations educates those most in need of boating safety knowledge," said Raynor Tsuneyoshi, Director of the Department of Boating and Waterways.

AB 2005 would make the nighttime-prohibition hours for personal watercraft operation the same as for water skiing, sunset to sunrise, instead of one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise.

"Existing law was confusing for boaters and law enforcement officers alike, so we changed it to make it clearer," explained Tsuneyoshi.

AB 2005 also excludes diveboard users from life jacket requirements. Using a diveboard entails diving underneath the water on the diveboard with a mask and snorkel while being towed by a vessel. But existing law, written with water-skiing and wakeboard safety in mind, required anyone being towed by a vessel to wear a life jacket, which hampers diving.

The bill will go into effect on January 1, 2003.

09/12/2002

At a meeting set for September 19, 2002, the California Boating and Waterways Commission will consider approval of $13,772,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility loan and grant projects, and an additional $9,060,000 in consent calendar loans and grants. The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled to convene at 8:30 a.m. at the Forest Suites Resort, One Lake Parkway in South Lake Tahoe, California. The proposed projects are:

El Dorado County - El Dorado Boat Launching Facility -- A $460,000 grant to the City of South Lake Tahoe, for improvements including the construction of a new parking area with 40-50 vehicle/trailer spaces; modifications to the road into the existing parking area; upgrading the restrooms; undergrounding of power lines and relocation of lighting in the existing parking area; and installing new landscaping and irrigation and a project sign.

Lassen County - Canyon Dam Boat Launching Facility -- A $150,000 grant to the U.S. Forest Service for the first phase of construction of a $660,000 project, to include reconstructing and widening the existing boat launching ramp; installing a new boarding float; installing a new vault-style restroom, installing irrigation, and replacing signs.

Los Angeles County - Alamitos Bay Marina, Basin 8 -- A $1 million loan, the fourth and final phase of a $2,650,000 Department loan for the construction of a $3,202,000 project. The project includes the construction of a 30-berth marina, with a 45-space parking area, restroom, a dock and landside utilities, landscaping, signs and ancillary items.

San Joaquin County - Morelli Park Boat Launching Facility -- A $2,367,000 grant to the City of Stockton for improvements to include widening the ramp and adding a turnaround; installing three new boarding floats; reconfiguring and repaving the parking area and access road; upgrading the restroom for barrier-free access; constructing sidewalks, slope protection, drainage, a kiosk and gate; and adding lighting and electrical service, water and sewer lines, security fencing, landscaping, irrigation, and signs.

Stockton Waterfront Marina -- An $8,600,000 loan to the City of Stockton, the second phase of $13,300,000 in Department loans for a $17,720,000 project to improve the marina, including, replacing the existing berths with 298 new berths (134 of which will be covered); installing new pilings; adding six standard and six barrier-free gangways; repaving and upgrading parking for 375 spaces; building a 150-space dry stack storage building at the nearby Morelli Park Boat Launching Facility; and installing dockside electrical, water, fire and communication utilities; and adding drainage and six security gates.

Sutter County - Tisdale Boat Launching Facility -- A $960,000 grant to the County of Sutter for the construction of a boat launching facility on the Sacramento River, to include a two-lane ramp, a 35-space vehicle/trailer parking area and slope protection.

Yuba County - Camp Far West, North Recreation Area Boat Launching Facility -- A $150,000 grant to the South Sutter Water District for the first phase of a $1,568,000 project to build a new two-lane ramp with turnaround, a boarding float and gangway, paved parking for 28 vehicles and 48 vehicle/trailers, a restroom, walkways, slope protection, drainage, utilities, lighting and landscaping.

Cottage Creek Boat Launching Facility -- An $85,000 first phase grant to the Yuba County Water Agency for an $845,000 project to construct improvements to the boat launching facility on New Bullards Bar Reservoir, including repairing and expanding the parking area, repaving the access road, three new two-unit vault restrooms, a sidewalk, drainage and oil separation basins, chain link safety fences, erosion control seeding and signs.

Department loans and grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

09/06/2002

The National Park Service and Blue Water Network reached an agreement to extend the September 15th date for banning personal watercraft (PWC) from eight units of the national park system, including Lake Mead National Recreation Area. The extension allows unrestricted PWC use until November 6, 2002, the end of the typical recreational boating season.

Between November 7, 2002 and January 1, 2003, PWC use at Lake Mead National Recreation Area will be allowed in conformance with the following stipulations:

PWC use will continue with no restrictions: On Lake Mohave from Cottonwood Cove downriver to Davis Dam, in the Willow Beach area between the marker buoys, in the Boulder Basin and Boulder Canyon area, in the Overton Arm between Black Ridge and Cathedral Cove, and in the Temple Bar Area between Burrow Bay and Delmar Bay.

The following areas will be closed to PWC use: From below Hoover Dam to the marker buoy above Willow Beach, from the marker buoy below Willow Beach to Eldorado Canyon, Bonnelli Bay, Gypsum Bay, from Iceberg Canyon to the boundary of the Grand Canyon, and in the Overton Arm north of Black Ridge.

The remainder of the lake will be open to PWC use: with a 200 foot PWC wakeless zone extending from all shorelines.

According to Superintendent William K. Dickinson, "Lake Mead NRA is pleased with the extension. It will allow for continued PWC use through the end of the busy visitor season and for PWC use with some limitations through the end of the calendar year."

The agreement is not effective until the court enters an order incorporating it. Beginning January 1, 2003. PWCs will be banned until the Record of Decision (ROD) on the Lake Management Plan/Final Environmental Impact Statements (LMP/FEIS) and the final rule authorizing PWC use consistent with the ROD is promulgated. It is expected that both processes will be completed in the Spring of 2003.

http://www.nps.gov/lame/pwc.html.

08/21/2002

The Department of Boating and Waterways issued a safety reminder to boaters for the upcoming Labor Day Weekend.

"About 20 percent of all boating accidents occur on holidays, including Labor Day weekend," said Boating and Waterways Director, Raynor Tsuneyoshi. "But boaters could dramatically reverse that trend by wearing their life jackets, maintaining a proper lookout, and watching the alcohol."

Operator inattention is the leading cause of boating accidents, contributing to 47 percent of all California boating accidents last year. When boaters are in a holiday frame of mind, they may especially be prone to neglecting to watch out for other boats. While the operator is ultimately responsible for maintaining a proper lookout, it's a good idea to designate someone else on board to help watch for other traffic, especially on a large boat or in congested areas.

Last year, 24 percent of all reported boating fatalities were alcohol related. Twenty-five percent of those victims fell overboard and drowned. Some of them were passengers who had been drinking, indicating that everyone who drinks alcohol on board is at risk.

Nearly 80 percent of all boating fatality victims would have survived if they had been wearing the life jackets they had on board. Today, life jackets come in an array of styles and colors. Choose a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, suitable for the type of boating activity, and wear it. Once an accident occurs, it is often too difficult, and usually too late, to don a life jacket.

07/02/2002

The Department of Boating and Waterways has completed an investigation into the activities of licensed yacht and ship broker Michael Clausen (Lic. # B-270), of Bay Island Yachts in Alameda.

On May 24, 2002, Mr. Clausen entered into a settlement agreement with the Department, agreeing to pay $1,000 for one violation each of the H&NC sections 712(a) [employing an unlicensed person to perform acts within the Yacht and Ship Brokers Act], and 732(i) [failing to exercise reasonable supervision over the activities of his salesperson].

Under the terms of the agreement, the Department issued a warning letter for four violations of Section 716(a) of the H&NC [advertising a vessel for sale without having a current written authorization in advance] and one violation of Section 7619 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations [failing to have a Broker-Salesperson Relationship Agreement in place].

Boating and Waterways conducts a consumer protection program for the licensure of persons engaged in the sale of used vessels, under the Yacht and Ship Brokers Act, Sections 700 et seq., of the Harbors and Navigation Code (H&NC).

06/20/2002

A study released jointly by the California Department of Boating and Waterways and the State Coastal Conservancy recommends continuing funding for sand renourishment projects. According to the California Beach Restoration Study, the resultant wide, sandy beaches provide substantial economic benefits derived from tourism, including $4.6 billion in annual tax revenues to the State.

After a century of intense development, the California shoreline is largely influenced by human activity. Alterations of the natural system have resulted from damming of rivers, flood control, and sediment-blocking structures, particularly in southern California. Sand renourishment is an effective resource management tool to minimize beach erosion, provide recreational opportunities, sustain the economy through tourism, maintain coastal access, increase public health and safety, provide wildlife habitat, and reduce the need for seawalls.

Based on the success of prior California beach nourishment projects, the study concluded that projects funded by the Department of Boating and Waterways' Public Beach Restoration Program offer the potential for significant improvement of the state's beaches. The study concluded that this potential would also be enhanced through regional sediment management. Due to the diversity of the California coastal environment, beach nourishment and sediment supply improvement concepts applied to one region may not be appropriate for another. The study recommended that future projects should be evaluated on a regional basis to identify the most effective solutions to coastal and beach erosion problems.

Each year in Southern California, more than 1.5 million cubic yards of sand-size material are impounded behind dams and within debris basins. The study indicates that if sand were removed or bypassed from behind 12 specified dams in southern California, there would be a substantial increase in sediment supply to coastal beaches. The report also recommended that dams that are no longer serving any useful purpose be removed. The study did not address the feasibility of sand removal from dam reservoirs or dam removal.

The study is posted on the Department of Boating and Waterways' Website.

06/19/2002

At a meeting held on June 18, 2002, in Concord, Calif., the California Boating and Waterways Commission approved $1,535,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility loans. The approved projects are:

Alameda County - Fortman Marina -- A $235,000 loan to the owners of the Fortman Marina, located in the city of Alameda, for improvements including installing new roofs, decks and flotation for the docks with covered berths; reconfiguring and replacing the end tie docks; upgrading the restrooms; replacing piles; paving and sealing the parking area; and installing new landscaping.

San Diego County - National City (Chula Vista) Marina -- A $1,300,000 loan to the San Diego Unified Port District, for the engineering and design phase of an $11,000,000 loan. The Port and the City of National City will provide an additional $7,214,000 for the $18,214,000 project. The proposed project will include a new 229-berth marina, with barrier-free gangways, a 192-space parking lot, a harbormaster's building, a restroom, dock utilities, a fuel dock, slope protection, security gates, pathways, landscaping and irrigation, and signs. The Port District and the City will fund the dredging of the marina basin, pilings, dock communications, and storm drains.

Department loans and grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

06/19/2002

The California Department of Boating and Waterways is beginning its 2002 water hyacinth control program in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

The control program was launched on June 17 in Merced County, will expand to the Tuolumne River in Stanislaus County on June 24, and will start in Contra Costa, Fresno, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and southern Sacramento Counties on July 1.

DBW first instituted a herbicide control program under legislative mandate in 1983, after thick hyacinth mats clogged farm irrigation pumps and caused navigation hazards, affecting the area's agricultural and recreational industries. Herbicide spraying opened up water channels which had been closed by the hyacinth plant.

The control program is coordinated with county agricultural commissioners and is conducted by personnel from Boating and Waterways, the Federal Bureau of Reclamation, the County of Fresno, and the County of Merced.

Boating and Waterways monitors water quality to ensure that herbicides do not exceed allowable limits, and that the spraying conducted in the Delta has had no adverse impacts on the environment, agriculture, or public health in the area.

Anyone with health-related questions pertaining to the use of herbicides can contact their personal physician or local health services.

04/05/2002

At a meeting on April 4, in Buellton, CA, the California Boating and Waterways Commission approved $11,325,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility loans and grants. The approved projects are:

Contra Costa County - Martinez Marina -- Reconsideration of an $855,000 grant to the City of Martinez for high-water improvements to the boat launching facility, including raising and extending the existing ramp; replacing two boarding float piles and constructing a new boarding float abutment; raising, re-paving and restriping the parking area, access road and turnaround; raising the storm drains; adding slope protection; relocating the parking area lighting, and providing signs.

Los Angeles County - Long Beach Downtown and Shoreline Village Marinas -- A third-phase loan of $6,902,000 to the City of Long Beach for a $16,718,000 project to improve the Downtown and Shoreline Village Marinas that includes the replacement of dock fingers and gangways, new decking, rock reinforcement, utility upgrades, new bumpers and cleats, and parking security.

San Joaquin County - Stockton Marina -- A $1,700,000 loan to the City of Stockton, the first phase of a $13,300,000 loan for part of the improvements proposed for the Stockton Waterfront Marina. The City of Stockton will fund the balance of the $17,720,000 project which includes replacement of berths, installation of new piling, 12 new gangways, parking area improvements, construction of a dry stack storage building, new dockside utilities, security gates, and drainage.

Santa Barbara County - Lake Cachuma -- A $1,400,000 grant to the County of Santa Barbara for the third phase of construction of a $2,674,000 project to improve a new five-lane, multi-stage boat launching ramp, three new wooden boarding floats, a short-term parking and staging area, reconfiguring and repaving the roadways, queuing area and turnaround, access stairs from the upper parking area to the ramp, a new four-lane boat launching ramp for sailboats and special events at Mohawk Point, three new wooden boarding floats, a queuing area and turnaround for that ramp, and a parking area and improved roadways for that ramp.

Ventura County - Ventura Harbor -- A $468,000 grant to the Ventura Port District for improvements to the Ventura Boat Launching Facility, including repairs to the existing ramp, redesigning and repaving an existing parking area as overflow parking for the ramp, new boarding floats, provide an electronic message board for local weather and ocean conditions, re-plumb the boat washdown facility, and add lighting and landscaping.

Department loans and grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

03/28/2002

The California Department of Boating and Waterways named David Hinders of Rio Vista, as the recipient of the 2001 Distinguished Public Service Award. Boating and Waterways Commission Chairman Mik Beatie presented the award at a ceremony held on March 23, during the United States Power Squadron's District 25 Spring Conference, at the Radisson Hotel in Stockton.

Mr. Hinders has been a member of the U.S. Power Squadrons for 10 years, where he developed and maintains the District 25 Internet Website. He has served as commander of the Santa Clara Squadron, and is a past district commander. He served as co-chair of the committee on the Americas Boating Course, which is being developed to standardize the teaching of water safety throughout the United States. He has completed all the USPS courses to have earned the grade of Senior Navigator.

Mr. Hinders served on the National Educational Development Committee, as well as on the Strategic Plan Committee which developed goals for the USPS for the next decade.

The Distinguished Service Award was formerly known as the Boater Of The Year Award, which was established in 1980, to recognize the efforts of volunteer organizations whose members teach and promote boating safety education.

03/28/2002

Ray Tsuneyoshi, director of the California Department of Boating and Waterways, has been appointed to the National Boating Safety Advisory Council by federal Transportation Secretary, Norman Mineta.

"I am very pleased to be joining the council," said Mr. Tsuneyoshi. "I look forward to bringing California's perspective and expertise to this group."

The council was created by Congress under the Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 to advise the Secretary of Transportation and the Commandant of the Coast Guard on matters related to recreational boating safety. The council's 21 members are selected from among state boating officials, the boating industry, national recreational boating organizations, and the boating public. At meetings and in interim committee studies, council members review proposed and existing Coast Guard regulations and activities related to recreational boating.

The next meeting of the group is set for April 20-23 in Baltimore, Md.

03/28/2002

At a meeting held today in Sacramento, the California Boating and Waterways Commission approved $3,680,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility grants. The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled to convene at 8:00 a.m. at Radisson Hotel Sacramento. at 500 Leisure Lane, Suite 304. The proposed projects are:

Contra Costa County - Martinez Marina -- A $855,000 grant to the City of Martinez for high-water improvements to the boat launching facility, including raising and extending the existing ramp; replacing two boarding float piles and constructing a new boarding float abutment; raising, re-paving and restriping the parking area, access road and turnaround; raising the storm drains; adding slope protection; relocating the parking area lighting, and providing signs.

Monterey County - Lake Nacimiento -- A $1,365,000 grant to Monterey County for improvements to the South Shore Boat Launching Facility, including reconfiguring, repaving and restriping the parking area; adding a parking area storm drain system; installing two boarding floats; constructing a new kiosk entry; relocating the fueling station, propane tank, fish-cleaning station, compressor building and dump station; and providing lighting, landscaping, and signs.

Sacramento County - Sacramento River -- A third-phase grant of $750,000 to the County of Sacramento for a $1,300,000 project to make improvements to the Elkhorn Boat Launching Facility, located on the Sacramento River near its junction with Interstate 5. The project includes the construction of a new two-lane concrete boat ramp and boarding float; redesigning and repaving the parking area; construction of a restroom, a walkway and slope protection; and providing landscaping, lighting and signs.

San Mateo County - San Francisco Bay -- A $280,000 grant to the Port of Redwood City for improvements to the Redwood City Boat Launching Facility, including installing new boarding floats with a new abutment, modifying the existing boat ramp to accommodate the installation of the new boarding floats, and installing new guide piles and slope protection.

Yolo County - Sacramento River -- A 430,000 grant to the City of West Sacramento for improvements to the Broderick Boat Launching Facility, located on the Sacramento River, for a project to include replacing asphalt with concrete at the head of the existing boat ramp, widening the parking area, constructing a walkway, adding slope protection, upgrading security lighting, and providing two security gates and signs.

Department loans and grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

03/25/2002

The California Department of Boating and Waterways named Patricia D. Allison as the recipient of the 2001 Distinguished Public Service Award, at a ceremony on March 23, during the United States Power Squadron's District 13 Spring Conference, at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Ventura.

"Patricia is an example of what inspired leadership and dedication can accomplish," said Boating and Waterways Director, Ray Tsuneyoshi.

Ms. Allison, a resident of Westminster, is a retired vice principal of Mesa View Middle School in Huntington Beach, and has been a boater for 38 years.

She joined the U.S. Power Squadrons (USPS) in 1963. She has held various offices in the organization both locally and nationally, and has three times represented the USPS at the annual Interanational Water Safety Summit. She recently served as a member of a delegation that testified before the Legislature on the subject of mandatory education. Under the leadership of Ms. Allison, her local squadron, Tres Rios Power Squadron, was awarded the National Boating Federation Award in 1998 and 2001.

Her support and management of the public boating program provided by her local squadron has resulted in local boating safety classes being offered on an average of every 60 days.

The Distinguished Service Award was formerly known as the Boater Of The Year Award, which was established in 1980, to recognize the efforts of volunteer organizations whose members teach and promote boating safety education.

03/18/2002

The California Department of Boating and Waterways named Walter "Bud" Davis, of Fremont, as the recipient of the 2001 Distinguished Public Service Award. Boating and Waterways Director Ray Tsuneyoshi presented the award at a ceremony held on March 16, during the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary's District 11 Conference, in Reno.

"Bud's professionalism and dedication are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary," said Tsuneyoshi, "and I heartily commend him."

Mr. Davis joined the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in 1998, and since then has qualified as an Instructor and a Vessel Examiner and all while holding both appointed and elected offices within the organization, as well as becoming proficient in numerous Auxiliary specialty courses.

In addition to the hours spent performing and maintaining his qualifications, he has served 325 hours in support of active duty Coast Guard at Coast Guard Island. His services have earned him the Coast Guard Unit Commendation, the Coast Guard Meritorious Team Commendation, and two Sustained Auxiliary Service Awards.

The Distinguished Service Award was formerly known as the Boater Of The Year Award, which was established in 1980, to recognize the efforts of volunteer organizations whose members teach and promote boating safety education.

03/11/2002

The California Department of Boating and Waterways named Jack Swartz, of Coronado, as the recipient of the 2001 Distinguished Public Service Award. Boating and Waterways Director Ray Tsuneyoshi presented the award at a ceremony on March 9, during the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary's District 11 Conference, held on Terminal Island, San Pedro.

"Jack's professionalism and dedication are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard and the Auxiliary," said Boating and Waterways Director, Ray Tsuneyoshi.

Mr. Swartz has served as a Flotilla Commander for the past two years. He is also active in promoting boating safety by teaching classes and working in the Boating Safety Information Center. He serves as a mentor to other Auxiliary members by teaching internal specialty courses, as well as boating safety and education courses to the boating public. He is also active in the Marine Dealer program, visiting local boat and motor dealers weekly to help them provide boating safety information to their customers.

He regularly performs weekly patrols and has numerous search-and-rescue cases to his credit, contributing more than 1,000 hours of his time. Following the events of September 11, 2001, he volunteered to perform security and safety patrols almost every day and night, providing the Coast Guard with important information on activities in the vicinity of the four U.S. Navy Bases in the San Diego Area.

The Distinguished Service Award was formerly known as the Boater Of The Year Award, which was established in 1980, to recognize the efforts of volunteer organizations whose members teach and promote boating safety education.

01/31/2002

At a meeting held today in Sacramento, the California Boating and Waterways Commission welcomed the reappointment of two members, approved $2,825,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility grants, and held one grant proposal over until their April 4, 2002, meeting.

Commissioners Robert Y. Nagata, 56, and Harry L. Nelson, Jr., 74, were reappointed by Governor Gray Davis on January 16.

Mr. Nagata, of Los Angeles, is with the law firm of Lamb & Baute, LLP. He is an avid fisherman, a boat owner since 1977, and has been licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to operate small uninspected passenger vessels since 1987. Mr. Nagata earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of Southern California in 1967, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of San Diego School of Law. He worked as a tax accountant for Price Waterhouse and Company from 1970-73 and since 1973, has practiced tax and corporate law. He was formerly a partner with both the international law firm of Jones Day Reavis & Pogue, and the Los Angeles law firm, Musick Peeler & Garrett.

Mr. Nelson, of Rolling Hills Estates, is president and founder of Almar Ltd., a development and management company specializing in waterfront boat berthing facilities. He served as a member and director of the Wilshire Bank from 1979 to 1989. As former president of the Marina Recreation Association from 1980 to 1983, Mr. Nelson knows boating, waterway and marina issues well. He also served in the National Guard from 1948 to 1951 and the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1952. Mr. Nelson earned an LLB degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law.

The following project was postponed until the commission's April 4 meeting in Solvang, due to concerns of some commissioners regarding the Martinez Marina.

Contra Costa County - Martinez Marina -- A $855,000 grant to the City of Martinez for high-water improvements to the boat launching facility, including raising and extending the existing ramp; replacing two boarding float piles and constructing a new boarding float abutment; raising, re-paving and restriping the parking area, access road and turnaround; raising the storm drains; adding slope protection; relocating the parking area lighting, and providing signs.

Monterey County - Lake Nacimiento -- A $1,365,000 grant to Monterey County for improvements to the South Shore Boat Launching Facility, including reconfiguring, repaving and restriping the parking area; adding a parking area storm drain system; installing two boarding floats; constructing a new kiosk entry; relocating the fueling station, propane tank, fish-cleaning station, compressor building and dump station; and providing lighting, landscaping, and signs.

Sacramento County - Sacramento River -- A third-phase grant of $750,000 to the County of Sacramento for a $1,300,000 project to make improvements to the Elkhorn Boat Launching Facility, located on the Sacramento River near its junction with Interstate 5. The project includes the construction of a new two-lane concrete boat ramp and boarding float; redesigning and repaving the parking area; construction of a restroom, a walkway and slope protection; and providing landscaping, lighting and signs.

San Mateo County - San Francisco Bay -- A $280,000 grant to the Port of Redwood City for improvements to the Redwood City Boat Launching Facility, including installing new boarding floats with a new abutment, modifying the existing boat ramp to accommodate the installation of the new boarding floats, and installing new guide piles and slope protection.

Yolo County - Sacramento River -- A 430,000 grant to the City of West Sacramento for improvements to the Broderick Boat Launching Facility, located on the Sacramento River, for a project to include replacing asphalt with concrete at the head of the existing boat ramp, widening the parking area, constructing a walkway, adding slope protection, upgrading security lighting, and providing two security gates and signs.

Department loans and grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

01/31/2002

At a meeting held today in Sacramento, the California Boating and Waterways Commission approved $3,680,000 in Department of Boating and Waterways boating facility grants. The meeting is open to the public and is scheduled to convene at 8:00 a.m. at Radisson Hotel Sacramento. at 500 Leisure Lane, Suite 304. The proposed projects are:

Contra Costa County - Martinez Marina -- A $855,000 grant to the City of Martinez for high-water improvements to the boat launching facility, including raising and extending the existing ramp; replacing two boarding float piles and constructing a new boarding float abutment; raising, re-paving and restriping the parking area, access road and turnaround; raising the storm drains; adding slope protection; relocating the parking area lighting, and providing signs.

Monterey County - Lake Nacimiento -- A $1,365,000 grant to Monterey County for improvements to the South Shore Boat Launching Facility, including reconfiguring, repaving and restriping the parking area; adding a parking area storm drain system; installing two boarding floats; constructing a new kiosk entry; relocating the fueling station, propane tank, fish-cleaning station, compressor building and dump station; and providing lighting, landscaping, and signs.

Sacramento County - Sacramento River -- A third-phase grant of $750,000 to the County of Sacramento for a $1,300,000 project to make improvements to the Elkhorn Boat Launching Facility, located on the Sacramento River near its junction with Interstate 5. The project includes the construction of a new two-lane concrete boat ramp and boarding float; redesigning and repaving the parking area; construction of a restroom, a walkway and slope protection; and providing landscaping, lighting and signs.

San Mateo County - San Francisco Bay -- A $280,000 grant to the Port of Redwood City for improvements to the Redwood City Boat Launching Facility, including installing new boarding floats with a new abutment, modifying the existing boat ramp to accommodate the installation of the new boarding floats, and installing new guide piles and slope protection.

Yolo County - Sacramento River -- A 430,000 grant to the City of West Sacramento for improvements to the Broderick Boat Launching Facility, located on the Sacramento River, for a project to include replacing asphalt with concrete at the head of the existing boat ramp, widening the parking area, constructing a walkway, adding slope protection, upgrading security lighting, and providing two security gates and signs.

Department loans and grants require the consent of the Boating and Waterways commission. The seven-member commission, appointed by the Governor, also advises the Department on matters within its jurisdiction. Funding for the projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of gasoline for their vessels.

01/10/2002

Governor Gray Davis released his proposed 2002-2003 state budget today, including $88,652,000 in expenditures for the Department of Boating and Waterways.
Governor Davis' budget will fund public access boating facility projects, boating law enforcement programs across the state, and programs to enhance safety on the water for the state's 4 million boaters," said Director Raynor Tsuneyoshi.

Boating and Waterways' proposed budget includes $19,298,000 for loans to public agencies to construct and improve marinas; $3,750,000 to be made available for loans to private sector marina owners to construct and improve marinas; $16,665,000 for grants to public agencies to construct and improve boat launching facilities; $9,792,000 for capital outlay projects to construct and improve boating facilities on state lands; $9,025,000 in aid to local agencies for boating law enforcement; $6,513,000 for beach erosion control; $3,603,000 in federal funds, for a variety of safety and education boating programs; $750,000 for abandoned watercraft abatement grants; $1,753,000 for vessel sewage pumpout grants, and $1,100,000 for a transient docking facility grant program.

Program Highlight: Of the $9,792,000 capitol outlay budget, $4,395,000 is for the Boating Instruction Safety Center (BISC) construction program, including $3,822,000 for working drawings and construction of a BISC at CSU/Humboldt in Eureka; $445,000 for project planning and working drawings for a BISC at CSU/Channel Islands at Channel Islands Harbor; and $128,000 for preliminary plans for a BISC at California State University/Sacramento, at Lake Natoma. These new facilities will allow for both on-the-water and in-the-classroom boating safety education and instruction.

The Department's current budget (for the 2001-02 fiscal year) totals $102,755,265.

Funding for DBW is derived primarily from boating gasoline taxes, vessel registration fees, and loan repayments.