If you spend any time around boat ramps, you are probably familiar with the term powerloading. No, it has absolutely nothing to do with weightlifting. The term is used to describe using a boat’s motor to load and unload the vessel from the trailer. Although it may be a convenient method that saves some time and effort for boaters, the damage powerloading causes far outweighs any conveniences — even for those who never set foot on a boat ramp.

Powerloading may not seem like a big deal. After all, large boats take physical effort to position on and off trailers by using the winch alone. And during busy times of the year, powerloading decreases waiting time at the ramps, especially during Florida’s winter months. But taking a closer look, powerloading can turn an ideal day on the water into a nightmare. And the damage to the ramps means they eventually need to be repaired or replaced, costing taxpayer dollars.