Weekly 5: EPA ‘playing politics’ with ethanol rules, groups say
The BI Weekly 5 is a collection of tips, news and data affecting the boating industry this week. Be sure to look for the BI Weekly 5 every Tuesday on BoatingIndustry.com.
1. EPA ‘playing politics’ with ethanol rules, groups say
It’s not too often you’ll find ethanol supporters and petroleum producers agreeing, but both are tired of what they see as the Obama administration flip-flopping on the Renewable Fuel Standard, The Hill reports.
Corn growers and other ethanol supporters want the ethanol levels raised in the RFS, while opponents, including many marine industry groups, want them lowered. Groups on both sides of the issue now are saying that the administration is trying to play both sides of the issue for political gain.
2. Minnesota lake first to use new product to kill zebra mussels
It’s a new a front on the war against invasive species as the Minnesota Department of Resources uses a new tactic that uses dead bacterial cells in an effort to eradicate zebra mussels.
3. NMMA: Outboard shipments up in August
U.S. outboard engine wholesale shipments were up 6.5 percent year-over-year (rolling 12 months) in August for the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s control group of manufacturers that represents 95 percent of the market. Total retail sales, based on warranty card registrations, were up 0.6 percent.
4. Chicago harbors hit lowest occupancy rate in 15 years
The city of Chicago’s harbors are only 75 percent occupied, slightly below the 76 percent occupancy rate in 2012 and 2013 and the lowest in the last 15 years.
The city added 1,000 new slips just as the recession hit, which accounts for much of the vacancy. At the time there were about 1,000 boaters on waiting lists to get harbor slips.
5. Iowa reports fewer boating injuries, arrests
Personal injuries related to boating accidents are down 70 percent since 2010, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
Since 2012, boating-while-intoxicated arrests have dropped 64 percent as well.
