The Oregon State Marine Board is gearing up and hitting the Rogue River with marine law enforcement partners from around the state during the week of July 28 – July 31. This intensive, week-long course focuses on boat operation, marine law, swift water rescue, and boat trailering. The training focuses on honing boat operating skills. “We are advising boaters in the area to stay clear for safety’s sake,” says Dale Flowers, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board. “We’re hoping to have a minimal impact on recreation, but boaters need to be aware that the performance objectives will require extreme focus by the students -the wider the berth, the better. This will be especially challenging with the low water levels.” 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 turns out to be a tremendous learning opportunity for everyone who participates,” 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. “The training is necessary to ensure that help is there when boaters need it,” 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.
