POLK CITY, Fla. — USA Water Ski has joined Standing Watch, a statewide organization that works to protect boaters' rights in Florida. USA Water Ski and Standing Watch have agreed to collaborate their efforts to ensure that waterways access is legislated in a practical and informed manner at the local and state levels in Florida.

"Waterways access is one of the most important issues that USA Water Ski members face in Florida," said Steve McDermeit, USA Water Ski's executive director. "Aligning with Standing Watch will allow us to become part of an organization that has established itself as a leader in protecting the rights of recreational boaters."

Leon Larson, chairman of USA Water Ski's Waterways Committee, will serve as a member of Standing Watch's board of directors and will help direct cooperative efforts between the two organizations.

Formed as an umbrella organization for all waterfront enthusiasts, Standing Watch advocates access for water skiers, property owners, recreational boaters, marine tradesmen, commercial fishermen, recreational fishermen, guides, sailors and real estate professionals. Through its aggressive legislation monitoring, Standing Watch — which has more than 10,000 members — attempts to give state residents a voice in the management of their natural resources and the waterways. It is based in Naples, Fla.