The Oregon State Legislature has introduced a bill that would restore boating access to Newberg Pool, a stretch of the Willamette River outside Portland.
Senate Bill 1071 raises the allowable “factory-specified dry gross weight” to 7,500 pounds for towboats used for water sports in the section of river from mile 26.6 to mile 55. The proposed legislation also aims to alleviate congestion around narrow stretches of the river.
“It opens the door to people who love getting out on the Newberg Pool,” Rachel Fischer, western policy and engagement manager for the National Marine Manufacturers Association, told Trade Only Today. “It’s significantly important because only 7% of the boats from popular manufacturers fall under the weight limit.”
Sen. Mark Meek (D) authored the bill, which received bipartisan support from Sen. David Brock Smith (R), Rep. Ricki Ruiz (D) and Rep. Lucetta Elmer (R). Although the legislation raises the allowable weight limit for towboats, wakesurfing remains prohibited in Newberg Pool.
“In Oregon, recreational boating and water sports have a $1.6 billion economic impact, supporting nearly 6,000 jobs and more than 400 local businesses, including marinas, dealers, mechanics, restaurants, convenience stores and more,” NMMA said in a statement.
SB 1071 reverses much of what SB 1859 enacted when it was passed in 2022. SB 1859 created a 5,500-pound limit for boats and requires that operators complete instruction if engaging in water skiing or wakeboarding. Wakeboarding has to be 200 feet from shore, and skiers must be 100 feet from shore. Wakesurfing was banned.
“The bill just didn’t make sense for what the Newberg Pool is and the population it serves,” Fischer said.
“Ultimately, this would restore access to the Newberg Pool that is meaningful,” said Fischer, who added that the more people learn about these sports, the more accepting they will be of them. “Trust is built through exposure, and the more education people get, the better.”
