Two jet ski operators are currently under investigation by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service after they illegally ascended the Chattooga River via the river’s mouth into Lake Tugalo. Not only are motorized vehicles forbidden in the Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River Corridor but they’re also illegal to operate over 25 mph, in Lake Tugalo itself.
The pair are in hot water after they uploaded a video of their illegal actions onto YouTube, but after rapid public outcry, the video was taken down by the users.
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From the Chattooga Conservancy:
“It was brought to our attention last week that a Youtube video was circulating of two jet ski operators ascending the Chattooga River from Lake Tugalo. Due to a large & immediate public outcry, the video was promptly taken down. Not only are jet skis illegal to operate on Lake Tugalo (for exceeding a 25hp safety limit), but navigating the whitewater rapids of the Chattooga River on one is in direct violation of Federal Laws that prohibit motorized vehicles in the Chattooga National Wild & Scenic River Corridor. Fortunately, both the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Forest Service are taking this violation seriously, and an active investigation is currently underway. Stay safe and navigate responsibly, folks!”
This is a developing story, and we will update this article as more information comes to light.
