Watercraft Use

Damariscotta Lake covers 4,625 acres and spreads its arms in fjord like fashion across the towns of Jefferson and Nobleboro. Needless to say it is a popular spot for boating, fishing and recreational enthusiasts using a variety of watercraft. On any given day the lake may be host to sailboats, high powered speed boats (possibly pulling a water skier or a person on a tube), smaller fishing and cruising boats, kayaks, canoes and rowboats, all sharing the natural beauty of the lake. It is crucial for all users of the lake to be courteous and respectful of other users by making special efforts to protect the safety all individuals on the lake as well as the waterfowl and animals, which inhabit the lake.

Safety is Everyone's Responsibility

Recreational boating is increasing in popularity, and each year, more boaters take to the waters in Maine. For that reason, safe boat handling is more critical than ever. While observing the laws, please also be aware of the "Three C's" of smart boating:

• Common Sense
• Courtesy
• Cold Water

Before considering taking to the lake prepare yourself by taking a boating safety course and be sure you are familiar with the safe operation of your watercraft and that your boat is equipped with appropriate safety equipment such as: backfire flame arrestors, fire extinguishers, lights, mufflers to prevent NOISE POLLUTION, personal flotation devices (PFD) MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES BY CHILDREN 10 YEARS OF AGE OR YOUNGER - STATE LAW, ventilation, visual distress signals and a whistle (bell) or horn. (See links for specifics).

Before launching any watercraft, check for "Hitchhiking plants"! Remove all plant fragments from boats, propellers, trailers, bait buckets, and anchors. Dispose of plants on high, dry land away from the lake. Invasive aquatic plants can spread from very small pieces of plant. Invasive plants damage fisheries, replace useful native plants, ruin swimming areas, foul motors and propellers, are unsightly and can DESTROY THE LAKE.

Boat launching facilities are available in Jefferson on Route 213 and at the Damariscotta Lake Marina located at the head of the lake near the intersection of Route 126 and Route 32. In Nobleboro, public access is available on Vannah Road, off Route 1.

Once on the lake, operate your watercraft according to the Laws of the State of Maine (see link for more specific information.)

"No Wake"

Within 200 feet of any shore, watercraft cannot exceed Headway Speed. Headway speed is the minimum speed necessary to maintain steerage and control of the watercraft while the watercraft is moving.  This means that the entire length of Davis Stream is within the no-wake zone as is part of the Narrows and within 200' of all islands and shore.

"Prudent Operation of a Watercraft"

The watercraft must be operated at a reasonable and prudent speed for existing conditions; speed must be regulated to avoid damage, injury, or unnecessary inconvenience to other watercraft; minimize the effect of wash or wave created by the watercraft to piers, floats, property, and shorelines.

"Imprudent Operation of a Watercraft"

This includes prolonged circling, informal racing, wake jumping, or other types of activities that harass another person.

"Reckless Operation of a Watercraft"

This includes any operation that creates a substantial risk of bodily injury to another person.

DO NOT MOLEST WILD ANIMALS OR BIRDS!

Buoys...

...mark hazards and are there for your protection. Remember a safe day on the lake is a "Day to Remember" whereas an accident caused by reckless behavior will be a "Day You Will Want to Forget". Don't be a casualty or cause a casualty.  A laminated map of all navigational markers is available for purchase ($6) at the DLWA office at 8 Village Street in Jefferson.

Outboard Engine Maintenance

Personal watercraft are a leading source of pollution into recreational waters. There are measures that can be taken to reduce the impact that these vehicles make. Besides opting for a four-cycle engine as opposed to an older two-cycle design, owners should consult their own outboard motor owner's manual for suggestions concerning their particular model.

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• Become a Member
• Lake Navigation

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