Surfers need to build a consensus on operating rules and etiquette regarding the expanding mix of short boards, long boards, paddle surf boards and other human powered (paddled) surf boards and surf boats. The HPWA is leading the industry discussion to develop a collaborative approach to insure that fair and equal access is provided.
The United States Coast Guard has issued a “decisional memo” declaring that SUPs are “vessels” and subject to the same safety regulations as boats including requirements for carrying whistles, night time lighting and personal flotation devices. An unintended consequence of the “vessel” designation is that state and local agencies use the USCG rules as a basis for controlling the use of surf and swim zones, and “vessels” are often banned from operating with surfers and swimmers. There are currently efforts by short board surfers to ban SUP operations using the “vessel” designation as the justification.
The HPWA is taking an aggressive role in working with the USCG to reverse the “vessel” designation and reclassify the SUP as a “swim aid” which is the same as a surf board, boogie board, etc.
The United States Coast Guard has forced poorly conceived safety regulations upon all stand-up paddlers operating outside the surf zone - nationwide. This includes all navigable lakes, rivers and streams, and the open ocean.
The HPWA is taking the leadership role in gathering support from the industry and paddlers to eliminate mandatory PFD's, substituting a leash as the best safety device. A national petition and focused testimony from the industry's leaders is being collected and will soon be presented to the USCG.
HPWA is working directly with the Marina Del Rey Outrigger Canoe Club, LA Rowing Club, Fairwind Yacht Club and the United Marina Rowing Association to fight a plan to reduce boater access for human powered watercraft at Mother's Beach to make way for a large expansion of commercial and residential structures.
This exceptional public harbor is managed by the County of Orange and is moving through a revitalization planning process that is presenting both opportunities and challenges for the human powered watercraft community. The HPWA is providing the leadership and representation for paddlers during this complex process.
Dana Point Harbor failed to make revitalization plans for the harbor's largest user group - the paddlers! The HPWA is working with all key stakeholders to develop a robust revitalization plan for the harbor's West End that will continue to accommodate shared use with picnic and Baby Beach activities, but shift the area's growth plan and operating emphasis to recreational boating per the Coastal Act.