The Oregon State Marine Board will conduct its weeklong law enforcement jet boat course on Rogue River during the week of July 26 – July 30. This intensive course focuses on boat operation, marine law, swift water rescue, and boat trailering. The training focuses on honing boat operating skills. “This is critical training and this is the best place to do it,” says Dale Flowers, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board. “We’ve moved the training dates to this week so we have a minimal impact on recreation, but we still need to give the students room to work because they will be very focused –the wider the berth, the better.” Students who attend the Marine Board’s Whitewater Jet Boat Training bring a range of skills from the novice operator to advanced operator. “One of the goals of the training is to pair up an experienced marine deputy with a new jet boat operator. It’s a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity for everyone who participates, and the only course in the nation with this level of attention,” Flowers adds. Signs will be posted at local access sites about the training operations and notices have also been sent to all the registered fishing guides in the area. In addition to boat handling exercises in whitewater conditions, marine deputies will also learn how to dis-assemble, service and reassemble jet pumps, learn anchoring and chocking techniques, and how to navigate all stages of whitewater rapids. “This kind of training is so important because fast action and skill can mean the difference between a saved life or not,” Flowers says. The Marine Board contracts with 32 Sheriff’s Offices and the Oregon State Police for marine law enforcement services, including search and rescue operations, and boating safety education. Contracts with the County Sheriff’s Offices are paid for through motorboat registrations and titling fees. For more information about the Marine Board and law enforcement services, visit http://www.oregon.gov/OSMB/BoatLaws/pages/index.aspx.
