SPRINGFIELD, VA. — Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), the nation’s largest recreational boating advocacy group, has expressed strong concern over the Trump administration’s proposed staffing and budget cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
In a formal letter to Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, BoatUS warned that indiscriminate reductions to NOAA’s workforce and funding could jeopardize vital services that boaters rely on for safety, navigation, and enjoyment on the water.
“Accurate weather forecasts, updated nautical charts, and the proper management of marine resources are fundamental to the safety and enjoyment of recreational boating,” the letter stated.
BoatUS highlighted the critical roles of NOAA divisions such as the National Weather Service (NWS), National Ocean Service (NOS), Office of Coast Survey (OCS), and National Marine Sanctuaries (NMS). The letter emphasized that cuts to these agencies would not only endanger boater safety but could also negatively impact maritime operations, public safety, and coastal conservation efforts.
Specifically, the organization noted that timely weather alerts from the NWS help prevent loss of life and property during severe weather events, and that accurate tide and charting data from NOS and OCS are essential to safe navigation for all maritime stakeholders, including recreational boaters, commercial shipping, and the U.S. Coast Guard.
The letter also praised the role of National Marine Sanctuaries in preserving marine environments and supporting sustainable recreation, citing mooring buoys in the Florida Keys as a prime example of effective resource management that benefits both conservation and access.
To read the full letter, visit the recent BoatUS Magazine article at boatus.com.
