7 / 64
1
50 Years: The Department of Boating and Waterways, 1957 to 2007
Boating Growth and Funding
Following World War II, recreational boating proved to be one of the
fastest-growing outdoor activities in California. By the end of the
1950s, California was home to more than 125,000 registered boats.
Today, that number is nearing the one million mark.
In order to serve those boaters, Cal Boating provides funding for
the development of small craft harbors and boat launching facilities,
boating safety and educational efforts, law enforcement financial aid,
aquatic weed control in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, and a host
of environmental programs that make California’s waters cleaner.
Cal Boating is funded by the boating community, for the boating
community. The department’s programs are paid by boat gasoline
taxes, vessel registration fees, the repayment of small craft harbor
construction loans, and federal funds. All of these revenues are placed
into the Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund, which is used to
fund Cal Boating’s budget each year.
Boating and Waterways Commission
The Boating and Waterways Commission, a seven-person body
appointed by the Governor, advises Cal Boating on all matters within
its jurisdiction and approves all loans and grants made by Cal Boating
for construction of small craft harbors and boat launching facilities.
Commission meetings are traditionally held bimonthly or as needed
and are open to the public. Commission activities allow for public
oversight into departmental decisions, promote transparency and
encourage public input.
Year
Number of
Registered Boats
California
Population
Number of
Boats/1000
1960
177,800
15,860,000
11.2
1970
420,800
20,220,000
20.7
1980
556,000
23,511,000
23.6
1990
795,335
29,760,021
26.7
2000
904,843
34,480,000
26.2
2006
893,828
37,172,015
24.0
2007
964,881
37,662,518
25.6
r e c a l l i n g a r i c h h i s t o r y