SALEM, OR -- The Oregon Marine Board is trying to boost participation in its permit program for non-motorized watercraft, like paddle boards. According to the board, compliance is especially low in Deschutes and Jefferson counties.

Stand-up paddle boards and kayaks grow in popularity every year, but the OMB doesn’t know how many of these non-motorized boats are actually out on the water. "Anecdotally, we believe that there are around 300,000, which is almost double what we have in motorized," and the OMB's Ashley Massey says the number of Waterway Access Permits issued is much lower, "Because paddling is such a wonderful activity and so many people do it, and it’s become so accessible to pick up at Bimart or Costco, a standup paddleboard or kayak, it’s really difficult to get a sense of what those numbers look like." Permits have been required since 2020 for, "Anyone who operates a non-motorized paddlecraft, and that includes standup paddle boards that are 10-feet or longer." 

Massey says, "When our marine law enforcement are patrolling waterways and they’re engaging with paddlers, a lot of them aren’t aware that this permit program is even around."

Permits cost between $5 and $30, "Some families have like six kayaks. And say only three people want to go paddling. You only need three out there," says Massey, "So, it’s one permit per boat and they are transferable to other watercraft." Recreators are supposed to carry the permit with them, either a paper or digital copy. Kids 14 and under are exempt. Paddlers also need to carry a properly fitting US Coast Guard approved and readily accessible life jacket and whistle. Children 12 and under must wear a life jacket while on board. Click HERE for more information.

Money from the permits goes, "To develop separate access, where possible. Especially in areas where there’s mixed use boating," says Massey, "A lot of conflict that we were hearing about out on the waterways was coming from motorized boaters, saying they can’t use a launch ramp because so many people are in the way. And, the same with boarding docks." Since the program began, the agency has issued $2.7 million in project grants, including one project near Bend's whitewater park.