TOP TEN Boater’s NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

Boat Owners Association of The United States suggests these top ten New Year's Resolutions that will make your boating better and more rewarding for everyone aboard in 2007:

1. Introduce one new friend to sailing this year.

2. Inventory your safety gear and ensure it's in good condition.

3. A resolution from the BoatU.S. Trailering Club: ensure your boat trailer has tires with an "ST" designation (has stronger sidewalls), are inflated properly, and free of sun rot.

4. Take one educational course or on-the-water class to improve your boating.

5. "Nature deficit" disorder, a combination of over-programmed lifestyles and plugged-in playtime, is conspiring to leave kids no time with nature. Get your kids or grandkids outdoors by taking them sailing.

6. A resolution from TowBoatU.S. and Vessel Assist Captains across the country: Have an anchor aboard - it could be your best friend if your boat is disabled.

7. Make boating fun for your spouse and family.

8. Spend at least one night on the hook in a quiet gunkhole. An overnight adventure with the family away from the slip will give you a new perspective on sailing.

9. Try a different kind of boating: if you're a sailor, go powerboating; if you powerboat, go sailing; or, rent or borrow a kayak, canoe or fishing boat. Learning about those with whom we share the waterways will allow you to appreciate the challenges and pleasures of operating different watercraft.

10. Thank your marina owner for not going condo. Many boating facilities face great pressure to sell out to real estate developers that is leading to a loss of access. Declining waterway access can only be reversed if marina operators and boaters work together to find solutions.

The BoatU.S Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit education and research organization funded by recreational boaters nationwide. For more information visit http://www.BoatUS.com/Foundation Happy New Year!

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