RA-Sanctioned Paddleboarding? Not So Fast, Say Some Audubon Residents

Reston Association's board unanimously voted last week to allow Surf Reston Standup Paddleboard Adventures to open for lessons at the Lake Audubon boat ramp.

However, that approval has hit some rough surf with several local residents, who say a commercial enterprise should not be allowed on all-residential Lake Audubon.

"My concern is that it is an invitation for non-RA members to come and use the lake," said David Burns, who lives on Timberhead Way. "There isn't a way for RA to police who uses the lake - in fact, some non-residents do use it - but we should not have a reason to encourage them."

Standup Paddleboarding (or "SUP") is fast growing in coastal areas of the US. It appeals to many people because it is relatively easy for all ages and fitness levels, says Surf Reston owner Christopher Higgins.

Higgins' company has been hosting meetups this season at Lake Audubon, and he say he is excited about offering lessons (with certified instructors) and rentals. Higgins said he currently has eight boards to rent by the hour or half-day.

Under the agreement, RA would earn about $600 annually from the paddleboard business operation and Surf Reston would help with special events such as the Reston Triathlon.

Burns, his wife Beth, and other Lake Audubon-area residents have voiced their concerns to Reston Association's board of directors. Among their issues:

* Additional meetups and rentals will bring non-members to Reston, and increase crime and garbage in the Lake Audubon area.

* Increased traffic on the lake will affect wildlife.

* A commercial business in a strictly residential neighborhood.

Beth Burns suggests that Lake Anne, which has businesses on the lake as well as a boat rental dock, would be a better place for SUP rentals.

A resident of Thrush Ridge cluster told the RA board in an email that Audubon residents have already seen a dramatic rise in lake activity from non residents.
"This decreases our privacy, puts lake wildlife at risk and, quite possibly, puts our safety at risk," she wrote.  "l have seen a number of fishermen linger a bit too long at shoreline looking into the backs of homes.   

"The paddleboard classes sound harmless but they are just the 'tipping point' for what I see as a key problem:  increased use of this private lake by non-residents and lack of enforcement to limit its use to members.  Before opening up the lake to additional use, I ask that RA implement regular enforcement.  This would include consistent screening at the boat ramp and, if possible, on the lake itself. "

RA president Ken Knueven says he understands the Audubon residents' concerns and the board and RA staff will discuss them before finalizing the agreement with Surf Reston.

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