Summer E15 fuel authorization could devastate lakes boaters

Fargo, North Dakota – Lake enthusiasts who enjoy spending their summers on the water are being cautioned about a recent permission authorizing the summer sale of gasoline containing 15% ethanol (E15).

Fuel stations across the country will be permitted to sell gasoline blended with 15% ethanol during the summer, according to an emergency waiver approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Friday.

E15 is officially restricted for recreational vessel use because it damages marine engines and voids their warranties. Furthermore, E15 fuel has been shown to cause engines to run hotter, increasing the risk of a catastrophic boat fire. According to the US Coast Guard, signage or warning labels may not be seen at the pump because it may simply be labeled “regular 88” or “regular unleaded.” Boaters may ignore this potentially harmful detail due to the simplicity of filling a tow vehicle and a boat at the same time.

Summer boaters are recommended to ensure that the fuel they use contains no more than 10% ethanol (E10).