Riva Council Opposes Lake Garda Motor Navigation Law Changes
The proposed modifications by councilors Nerio Giovanazzi and Paola Vicini Conci to the 1983 law banning motor navigation on Lake Garda in Trentino are considered very dangerous by the vast majority of Rivana city councilors. As the moment approaches when the law is to be discussed in the chamber, they approved (20 out of 24 present) a “recommendation” to the Trentino legislator based on the proposal of the majority group leaders: Matteotti, Bertoldi, Lotti, Bassetti, and Manzoni.
The only flaw in that law, which has contributed to the protection of the lake environment, is its excessively broad authorization of navigation licenses for public and private transport vessels, as well as its prohibition for sailing boats to return under engine power (auxiliary) in case of calm weather.
Details of the modifications and implications
Giovanazzi’s modification is considered extremely dangerous because it links the permission for motor navigation to the mere possession of a fishing license, up to an engine power of 8 horsepower.
After extensive in-depth work, the Riva City Council suggests to the Provincial Council to allow the use of an engine up to 4 horsepower for all residents of the lakeside municipalities (meaning the same rule applies in Riva and Torbole), provided they hold a permit for a rowing boat, i.e., a mooring.
The total number of rowing boats equipped with engines shall not exceed the number of boat berths available in ports suitable for such vessels (with Giovanazzi’s proposal, inflatables could also navigate).
It is the responsibility of municipal administrations to indicate the number of existing boat berths in their respective territories: initially, and pending the fulfillment of responsibilities of the municipalities, the province could set the maximum allowable number of motors at 80.
In cases where boats are fitted with electric motors, they shall be exempt from concession fees.
Water skiing remains prohibited in all cases, also considering the need to maintain a 500-meter distance from the shore.
Return to port under engine power should be allowed for sailing recreational boats in case of objectively lacking wind.