While an international fund-raising community has contributed to the preservation of the art and architecture of Venice since the 1966 floods, the impact of social issues caused by the declining resident population is only now becoming more apparent.

For rowing and traditional boating, the declining population has a two-fold impact. It means the preservation of boating traditions, through active participants, are under threat by declining enrolment into the clubs, i.e. the number of Venetian rowers. Secondly, with the growth of visitors expected to reach as many as 40 million annually by 2015, the logistical infrastructure (barges, delivery boats, water taxies, vaporetti), will be impacting the canals and lagoon with their wakes/washes and propeller actions.

As a visitor you can minimise your impact on the waterways; take the public transport when not walking. If taking a water taxi, share it with others as the taxies are licensed to carry up to 20 passengers.

Promote the lagoon by riding in tradition boats. There are classic Venetian barges or sailing ships as well as the gondolas. Help keep Venice afloat... Row Venice!