Motorized Watercraft Being Considered at Barkcamp

Area residents who use Belmont Lake at Barkcamp State Park in Ohio may be interested in a change to boating rules proposed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. The potential change would allow all types of motorized watercraft to operate on the lake as long as they are operating at no-wake speed. Currently, only non-motorized boats or those with electric motors are allowed.

As required by Ohio state law, the proposed change is now in a public comment period. Comments can be made verbally or in writing at a public meeting 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 28, in the Ohio Valley Mall community room in St. Clairsville. Written comments can also be sent to ODNR by email at watercraft@dnr.state.oh.us or by mail at Belmont Lake Rule Proposal, 2045 Morse Road C-3, Columbus, OH 43229. All comments must be received by Nov. 30.

The proposed rule change would also affect Madison Lake at Madison Lake State Park in London, Ohio.