Marine Deputies -The Real Deal in Action

Two-week training course teaches boat handling, safety and survival. Coast Guard recruits -Columbia River Indian Fisheries Enforcement (CRIFE)

Photo Courtesy: Oregon State Marine Board

(SALEM) - Marine law enforcement officers from 17 counties will converge on Camp Rilea, near Astoria, for an intensive two-week training course beginning May 11th.

During the training, officers will learn about state boating laws, rules and regulations, how to identify intoxicated boat operators and how to operate their patrol boats and equipment as effectively as possible; all while focusing on officer safety and survival.

Local agencies participating in the training include State Police, Lincoln County, Marion County and Benton County.

This comprehensive training includes education in the classroom, pool, and practical scenarios on nearby Cullaby Lake.

"This is a safe training environment that replicates situations officers will routinely experience," said VanMeter, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board. "It gives officers a chance to build their confidence and skills on the water. When they leave this academy, they'll be ready for action in the field."

The Oregon State Marine Board holds the Marine Safety and Law Enforcement academy each spring for newly hired marine officers from various jurisdictions. Attendees include the Oregon State Police, county sheriff programs, the Intertribal Fish Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard.

The first week of training is primarily classroom focused, 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 will assist by portraying intoxicated operators or passengers, boaters with motor problems, or more serious, hostile situations. Instructors will guide students through the activities, and correct or critique them as necessary. "This is only one piece of the overall training we provide, but this is a foundation to everything marine officers do to serve Oregon boaters," said VanMeter. For more information about the Law Enforcement program, contact Ashley Massey, OSMB Public Affairs Specialist, at (503) 378-2623 or visit www.boatoregon.com