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Full Version: Ohio Boat Registrations Dip Slightly in 2008
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COLUMBUS, OH - Under the popular game show "Jeopardy" mythical category of Ohio Boating Facts, name the state's number one county for the highest number of watercraft registrations. If one were to answer: "What is Franklin County?", then that would be the correct answer.

The total number of Ohio-registered watercraft in 2008 was tabulated at 411,366, a decrease from 415,562 watercraft registered in 2007, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft. Ohio watercraft registrations are valid for a three-year period. The total number of Ohio-registered watercraft in 2005 was 412,804.

"The better comparison for watercraft registration numbers is to evaluate them in a three-year increment when, for example, boats registered in 2005 were due for registration renewals in 2008," said Rick Barrera, manager of the Division of Watercraft's registration and titling section. "From that standpoint, we saw a very slight decrease in Ohio watercraft registrations over that three-year period of 2005 to 2008."

Franklin County had the highest number with 26,130 registered watercraft in 2008. It was then followed by Cuyahoga - 23,908; Hamilton - 17,765; Summit - 18,880 and Montgomery - 15,627.

The most significant trend in Ohio watercraft registrations is a significant growth in ownership of canoes and kayaks. Registration records show the number of Ohio-registered canoes and kayaks rose from 60,065 in 2003 to 80.640 in 2008, an increase of 34 percent. Overall, canoe and kayak account for 19 percent of all Ohio-registered watercraft.

Boats, sailboats, inflatable watercraft, canoes, kayaks, jet-propelled personal watercraft such as Jet Skis and Waverunners, rowboats and most other floating vessels are required to be registered for use on state waterways. A complete listing of watercraft registration statistics and other registration requirements and procedures can be found online at www.ohiodnr.com.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.