High-Speed Boat Ban To Limit Flood Damage

High-speed boats are barred from two West Plains lakes for the next month to limit flood damage.

The emergency measure prohibiting boats from creating wakes lasts until May 8 on Clear and Silver lakes.

Spokane County commissioners approved the ban Tuesday night over the objections of some lake residents.

Both lakes flooded in March, and while the level of Silver Lake dropped 8 inches recently, it’s still about 2 feet higher than normal, residents said.

Commissioners feared boats would send more water onto lakeside yards.

“I don’t see why someone’s pleasure has to result in someone else’s property being damaged,” said Ted Theodore, who lives at Silver Lake.

But other residents said the damage has already been done.

“The wind itself probably causes as much damage as any vessel,” said Dan Dorshorst.

Commissioner Phil Harris originally proposed limiting boat traffic until the lakes receded to their normal levels. He amended the proposal because some lake residents feared they wouldn’t be able to legally ski or use personal watercraft all summer.

“The main reason you buy property out there is to enjoy the lake,” said resident Kent Reitmeier. , DataTimes