News Release

     Mobile, Alabama — Effective immediately the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, Mobile District, is banning Tube Kiting on all waters under its
jurisdiction in the southeast.

     Tube kiting is a new form of extreme water sport that recently emerged in
the region. The large inflatable kite tubes have a solid fabric floor that the rider
stands on while being towed behind a boat. The front of the tube begins to lift
into the air at speeds above 25 mph. As speed increases, the entire tube is
lifted into the air like a kite with the rider on top. The lack of stability and
control often results in the tube slamming hard into the water surface,
overturning or throwing the rider.

     “This product is described by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission as ‘extremely dangerous’ and nationally has already caused two
deaths and numerous injuries, including one serious injury at Lake Lanier,”
said E. Patrick Robbins. “The hazards and potential liabilities of allowing tube
kiting on public waters outweigh the benefits of unrestricted use.”
Regional bans have also been imposed at other Corps lakes as well as some
National Parks.

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