NEWS
from the Miami Herald

Letters to the Editor

Lift Park Ban

The reevaluation of personal - watercraft (PWC) use at Biscayne National Park is long overdue. The Aug. 18 article, Industry group making waves to get water-bike ban lifted, reported that these vessels are a disturbance. I find this claim absurd. PWC have been completely redesigned since 1998 and are now among the cleanest and quietest boats on the water. Yet I -- like nearly 9,000 other Miami residents who own PWCs -- am not allowed to ride in the park.

The park is a public place designated for public recreation. Moreover, we live in South Florida -- the world's boating capital. It's ridiculous to ban a boat that is proven to be more environmentally friendly than most of the other vessels allowed on park waters.

PWC were banned in 1998, and we're asking the park superintendent to begin the environmental assessment required to consider allowing us back into the park (see www.boatbiscayne.com). I am confident that this study will bring about a fair and equitable resolution.

DANNY DI NICOLA, Miami