VIMS

Working Waterfronts & Water Access

In recent years boaters have been finding many challenges to access the water. Skyrocketing land costs and taxes, marina conversions to residential use and regulations constricting new facilities have reduced public access to the water. Many states are beginning to address this issue and have found innovative methods to keep our waters open.

In May 2007, "Water Access 2007-A National Symposium on Working Waterways and Waterfronts" was held in Norfolk, VA bringing together boaters, regulators, legislators, educators and other interested groups to share ideas and gather information. The conference resulted in a sharing of ideas and solutions that will hopefully assist all states in their efforts to increase water access and stop losing our coasts to private development. From this conference, the National Working Waterfront Network was created.

Visit the National Working Waterfront Network site for more information on water access.