The State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation have rescinded a 5 mph boating speed limit within 600 feet of the St. Lawrence Seaway shoreline, effective immediately.

Several municipalities including Ogdensburg, Hammond, Lisbon, Morristown and Waddington were impacted by erosion from the high water levels this summer.

“Water levels have dropped significantly on the St. Lawrence River in recent weeks. Lifting the speed limit will allow regular boating activity and tourism events to resume and help communities along the river get back to normal,” State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey said.

The speed limit was first implemented on May 29 due to flooding along the St. Lawrence Seaway. Waves created by boat wakes can exacerbate shoreline erosion, further threatening residential and municipal infrastructure.

Reduced speeds result in reduced boat wakes and lessen the wave action along the shore. Reduced speeds help to ensure safe boating, as many hidden hazards and debris have been covered by elevated water levels and can threaten boaters.

Under normal conditions, boaters are required to obey the 5 mph speed limit within 100 feet of the shore, dock, pier, raft, float, or anchored boat.

When no speed limit is posted, vessels must always be operated in such a fashion so as not to endanger others. A vessel must be able to stop safely within the clear space ahead and a vessel operator is always responsible for any damage caused by the vessel's wake.