[OSMB-News] News Release -Marine Law Enforcement Preparing for Boating Season

[Ashley MASSEY]

For Immediate Release	       Date: Monday, April 30, 2007

Marine Law Enforcement Preparing for Boating Season
	
Marine law enforcement officers from around the state will converge on Camp Rilea, near Astoria, for an intensive two-week training course beginning May 2.  During the training, officers will learn about state boating laws, rules and regulations, and how to operate their patrol boats and equipment as effectively as possible; all while focusing on officer safety and survival.  This comprehensive training includes education in the classroom, pool, and on-the water exercises on Cullaby Lake.
		
"This is a safe training environment that replicates situations officers will routinely experience in the field," says Bill Rydblom, Law Enforcement Manager for the Marine Board.  "Some of the students have never operated a boat or have any familiarity with boating laws, so this training is tailored to those individuals and helps increase their basic skills and knowledge the job demands."  

The Oregon State Marine Board holds the Marine Safety and Law Enforcement (MSLE) academy each spring for newly hired marine officers from various jurisdictions.  Although this training is designed for Troopers and Deputies, other agencies such as the Intertribal Fish Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard frequently attend.

The first week of training is in the classroom, learning policies and marine law.  During the second week, officers hit the water to improve boat handling skills in an obstacle course and slalom run and learn from on-the-water scenarios that focus on officer safety and survival.  Volunteers from the Coast Guard Auxiliary assist with scenarios that range from boaters with motor problems, to the more serious, hostile situations.  Instructors will guide students through the activities, and correct or critique them as necessary.  
	
"This training is the foundation to everything marine officers do to serve Oregon boaters," said Rydblom. 
	
For more information about the Law Enforcement program, contact Ashley Massey, OSMB Public Affairs Specialist, at (503) 378-2623 or visit www.boatoregon.com.
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Media Note: Color photos are available electronically for reprint. The media are invited to Cullaby Lake for a ride-along during the second week of training in May.  Contact Ashley Massey for more information. 


Ashley A. Massey
Public Affairs Specialist
Oregon State Marine Board
503-378-2623
503-378-8587 ext. 82623
ashley.massey at state.or.us