In Bend, Oregon, the ‘Let Us Paddle’ movement is actively working to place a petition on the ballot to remove new permit requirements for paddleboards and kayaks. These regulations, introduced through House Bill 2982 during the 2025 legislative session, have increased fees and expanded the types of vessels needing permits on Oregon waterways.

Details of House Bill 2982

The bill raised water access permit fees to $6 for a one-week permit, $20 for an annual permit, and $35 for a bi-annual permit. The funds are intended to help prevent and mitigate invasive species, specifically quagga and zebra mussels. Previously, the permit requirement applied only to vessels over 10 feet in length, but now includes all paddleboards and kayaks.

Business Impact Minimal

Todd McGee, owner of Powderhouse, a local business renting tubes, kayaks, and paddleboards, reported that the rule change has not significantly impacted his operations. ‘We’re not having to raise any of our prices. So but yeah, it’s not affecting us that much,’ McGee said.

Community Concerns Over Regulation

A Bend resident, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed disagreement with the new permit regulations, despite the funding being directed towards invasive species prevention. The resident argued that non-motorized vessels do not cause harm or pollution. ‘With kayaks and paddleboards, they like I said, it’s not motor operated. It’s not gas operated. We are all using our arms. Whether you’re using a paddle, you’re using your arms with your sandals or your shoes, you’re physically using your body to go up and down the river. You’re not causing any harm. You’re not causing any pollution. You’re not being destructive,’ the resident said. They also stated that all water vessel users should be held to the same standard.

Petitioners Push Back on Funding Approach

Kari Goodhart, co-chief petitioner of the ‘Let Us Paddle’ movement, stated that her group does not want invasive species in Oregon waters. However, she opposes the current approach to funding prevention through kayaker fees. ‘We don’t want them in Oregon. Don’t get me wrong, we don’t want them in our state. But we’re just saying, come on in. We’re going to, you know, decontaminate your boat. We’re going to have all the kayakers pay for that. And welcome to Oregon, rather than, you know, giving them a ticket and sending a message to all other states saying, we don’t want you to come here with a dirty boat,’ Goodhart said.

Signature Campaign Ongoing

Goodhart remains hopeful that the ‘Let Us Paddle’ movement will gather enough signatures to secure a spot on the ballot, allowing Oregonians to vote on the permit requirements.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.