Keys Treasures

Monroe County is poised to become the first on a list of nearly 90 entities to take a stand against proposed legislation that would require the registration of non-motorized vessels.

The county, comprising the Florida Keys hundreds of islands scattered in shallow water and separated by mangrove creeks, is a paddler's paradise. Now a resolution aimed to keep it so will be presented to the County Commission, which convenes at 9 a.m. July 19 in Key West.

The resolution, which comes out of the county's Division of Marine Resources, says, “The Board of County Commissioners wishes to convey ... by this resolution opposition to any proposed legislation requiring registration of non-motorized vessels in the state of Florida.”

The suggestion that canoes, kayaks and other person-propelled boats should register with the state the way motorized vessels do came up in November, suggested by a representative of the Marine Industries Association. There could be benefits to registration, ranging from added funds to provide signs for paddlers to better funding for rescue operations.

Still, opposition is spreading like wildfire, especially among businesses that rent kayaks and canoes. The Paddle Partnership of Florida is a growing list of outfitters and tour companies opposed to the proposition. Florida Bay Outfitters in Key Largo and Marathon Kayak are two local members who oppose registration.

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