GSL and Antelope Slip Renters.

 

We just had a cold front roll through the marina.  That means much colder temperatures at night.  Which also means it is probably October at Great Salt Lake.

 

Over the next several nights we are likely to experience temperatures below freezing at night.  This should pose no threat to your boats since the water temperature of 68 degrees will keep the interior of your boat warm enough to keep lines from freezing.

 

But the lake temperature will start dropping rapidly now.  It is time to think about winterizing your boats.  Some things to consider for winter are:

·         Winterize.  Put RV antifreeze or Vodka in your lines

·         Empty holding tanks.  We will not be able to keep the pump-a-head open all winter anymore.  We tried but every winter we had a massive blow out because not enough salt water was pumped through the system after emptying a tank.  Only a couple more weeks of water to the dock.

·         Change your dock lines.  Salt crystals build up inside dock lines and cut them from the inside out.  Then, when the strong winds blow, the dock line explodes.

·         Check all your hose clamps.  Even though you have a stainless hose clamp, it does not mean the screw and screw housing is stainless.  In fact it is more likely it isn’t.  Test it by using a magnet.  IF the magnet sticks to the screw and screw housing, it is not stainless and will eventually fail.  Check all your hose clamps for any line that has water coming into the boat and any line that drains water from the boat.  This includes cockpit drains.  Even if a hose clamp is above water, enough snow weight may force it below water line and sink a boat.  It has happened several times over the years

·         Secure furling sails.  Secure main sails and main sail covers.

·         Secure anything that could be a projectile

·         Check the condition of your dock box.  Will it make it through the winter?

 

October begins Frontal Pattern in regards to weather.  This means Windy Season.  This means broken dock lines, shredded sails, and missing dock boxes.  Today’s front was the first of windy season.  Right on schedule.  Windy season lasts from October 1st to May 1st.

 

Upcoming Dates and Events

Just because Summer is over doesn’t mean sailing and marina events are over for the season.  In fact fall is a great time at Great Salt Lake.

·         October 6th, Duck Hunt season begins.  Save a duck hunter – educate them on the perils of Great Salt Lake if you don’t pay attention and respect her.

·         October 13-15 – the last GSLYC regatta of the year.  See www.gslyc.org for more information

·         October 27 – Pumpkin Patch Regatta, social and trick-or-treating for the kids.  Event is open to all.  Go to www.gslyc.org for more information

·         October 28 at noon – Mast Drop Party.  Help others as they help you drop your mast in preparation for Crane Day.  Chili will be served.  Side dishes welcome

·         November 2nd at 9am SHARP – Crane Day

·         November 4th – Daylight Savings Time ends

·         November 17th – at 4pm SHARP – 18th Annual Dave’s Turkey Social.  Dave will buy and cook the deep fried turkeys.  Side dishes are welcome.  This has become the second largest social of the year at Great Salt Lake.  Event is open to all marina users (GSL and Antelope)

·         December 15th,  The 37th annual Bottom-of-the-Pit Chili party. – More information to follow

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Holiday Season is just around the corner.  We will be having a contest for the best decorated (or lighted boat) for Holiday season.  The winner gets one month free dock rent.  Contest runs from November 1 to January 1.

 

Dave Shearer

Harbor Master

Great Salt Lake State Marina

Antelope Island State Marina

801-209-9142