Due to the fact that Pymatuning Lake is in two states, we have to deal with Ohio on anything affecting the lake. This is controlled by an agreement between PA and Ohio know as the Pymatuning Compact. We worked with Ohio a few years back and both had tentatively agreed to an increased horsepower. At that time, Ohio would only consider increasing to 20 HP or less. We in Pennsylvania then got the required legislation through our House, Senate, and signed by our Governor, and thought Ohio was quickly following suit. Unfortunately, for reasons we don't know, the Ohio Legislature does not now agree with this change and has not passed similar legislation. We have no idea when, or even if, they will. As a result, without identical legislation approved by both states, neither state has the authority to change from the 10 horsepower regulations.

We are not aware of any movement on Ohio's part to resolve this issue. As such, we don't anticipate seeing an increase in the approved horsepower limit at Pymatuning anytime soon.

As far as some of our other lakes, a 2002 pilot program which did NOT include Pymatuning, altered the maximum allowable horsepower to 18. The decision to allow up to 20 HP motors was made as a direct result of the public feedback received from this program. This program was not implemented at Pymatuning due to the agreement with Ohio stated above.

In implementing this change, we sought to resolve two problems that were associated with the lower horsepower regulation. First, the change curtailed practices that many boaters had used to circumvent the 9.9 HP limit including altering carburetion systems. The increased horsepower designation brought motors that had been running illegally for many years into compliance with the rules and regulations. Secondly, it allowed for larger boats, such as pontoons, to better navigate under windy conditions. The change was able to address these problems with very little effect on the environment and the visitors that utilize our lakes.

By establishing a 20 HP maximum limit on these lakes, we can accommodate the highest number of boaters that run something higher than the previous 10 HP limit. The new limit also provides many options for upgrading. The number of allowable outboards now includes 9.9, 15, 18, and 20 HP motors from both domestic and foreign manufacturers.

It is our understanding that a further increase to 25 HP would present the same problems that existed with the 9.9 HP motors: They can be modified to produce more than the specified horsepower limit. Our Bureau will continue to evaluate the effects of the increased horsepower limits on an ongoing basis. We desire these changes to positively affect our visitors. We will monitor this situation closely in the interest of both the recreational enjoyment of our visitors and the preservation of natural resources.

RELATED

• Waters with Special Boating Regulations
• PA Lakes

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