Wednesday, February 08, 2012
 
NLA / PA Water Skiing Rules

The Newton Lake Association allows Sport, Runabout and Ski Boats to be used on Newton Lake. However the maximum length of these boats may not exceed 23 feet in length. Also not permitted are boats with twin motors, cuddys, or jet powered boats. Pontoon Boats are also permitted on Newton Lake up to 25 ft. in length, however skiing and/or tubing is not allowed with these type of boats. Personal Water Craft (PWC) such as jetskis and wave runners are prohibited on the lake.

** Under no circumstances may the horsepower on any boat exceed the manufacturer's specifications for safe operation of the watercraft.

Water Skiing / Tubing is allowed on Newton Lake starting each morning at 9 AM. However even as a private lake we are subject to Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations which state that water skiing after Sunset is illegal. So to help our members comply with this regulation, we have provided the following information.

The phases between Sunset, when the sun "sets" or sinks below the horizon, and true darkness isn't obvious to many people, especially as Sunset occurs at a different time every day. Sunset is followed by Twilight, when the sky is still illuminated by light refracted in the Earth's atmosphere. Dusk is the later stage of Twilight, before it becomes completely dark. This whole process takes on average over 30 minutes. For your convenience, and so you are aware what time Sunset occurs each day at Newton Lake, we have provided a tool on this page for quick and easy reference of daily Sunset and Twilight times.

Besides being a law, it is also considerate to fellow association members to follow this practice. Fishing is often best between Sunset and Dusk, but at times water skiers are on the lake past dark, and fishing boats are even buzzed by ski boats not following this state regulation. Skiers can enjoy their sport from 9 AM until Sunset, and Fishermen should have a chance to take advantage of the small window of daylight between Sunset and Dusk as Bass are even more prone to strike when the water is calm, and "No Wake" promotes calm waters.

So after receiving numerous complaints from NLA members on this matter, please be aware that this year we will be monitoring this situation and working with the Greenfield Twp. Police Department, as-well-as the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, and violators will face penalties. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation!


Newton Lake Radar

Sunrise, Sunset, and Twilight Times

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