Tube Kiting banned on Lake Lanier

GAINESVILLE - A water sport described by the Corps of Engineers as "extremely dangerous" is being banned on Lake Lanier.

Tube Kiting has recently emerged on lakes and other waterways in the southeast, according to the corps.

It utilizes large inflatable tubes that have a solid fabric floor that the rider stands on while being towed by a boat. As the speed increases, the tube is lifted into the air and oftens slams hard back onto the water. At least two deaths and several serious injuries - one on Lanier - have been attributed to the sport.

The ban is effective immediately.