With opening day nearly a month behind us, Lake Washington boaters are flocking to the waters at every sunny chance they get.

The Mercer Island boat launch, a popular place to enter the lake for Islanders and non-residents alike, is growing in use.

Island residents and non-residents must pay $9 a day to use the boat launch, which is located at 3600 E. Mercer Way under the East Channel Bridge. This equal fee was introduced on Jan. 1 in adherence to a new agreement between the city and Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT).

Boaters can pay the fee at a machine at the boat launch entrance. The machine takes Visa and Mastercard credit or debit cards only. It will not accept cash.

Boaters can also purchase a $40 annual pass to use the launch, which is valid from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31. The two vehicles’ license plate number is required for this pass. To purchase an annual ticket, call 275-7609 or visit the Community Center’s main desk in person.

Boat launch parking hours are from 5 a.m. until 10:30 p.m., seven days a week.

For more information, visit the city’s Web site at www.mercergov.org.