On the evening of 06/03/11 boat operator stated that he had entered Ramsey Lake from an unfamiliar route. There was one occupant on board but he was asleep. operator advised that he thought that the reflectors on pilings were navigational aids. operator then came too close to a pier. He accidently put his boat in a faster gear instead of a slower gear and rammed into the end of a private pier. This collision caused a 5" X 24" gash in the side of the boat and caused extensive damage to the pier. (Broken boards and smashed dock lights) operator left the area and tied his boat up at South River Marina. The owner of the pier was able to locate the boat and operator that evening at Sthe Marina and contact a N.R.P Officer. operator was charged with Negligent Operation and Failure to Avoid  a Collision. He will also pay for repairs to the pier.
Edgewater                     