Annual marine law enforcement training held in Madras

The Oregon State Marine Board will conduct its annual marine law enforcement training on Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County between April 22 and May 3. This intensive training is designed for new or seasonal marine law enforcement officers to train them in boating laws, boat handling and water safety fundamentals.

“Oregon has huge a diversity in waterways for boaters, making it imperative that Oregon’s Marine Law Enforcement Officers are well trained and “at the ready” to help in their time of need,” said Edward Persichetti, Marine Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board.

Throughout this intense, nine-day marine academy, a broad range of skills are developed that help officers save lives and promote safe boating. Persichetti added, “We’ve been returning to Jefferson County for several years and are grateful for the community’s hospitality. The Madras Aquatic Center and the amenities on Lake Billy Chinook are first rate, and the environment allows us to cover a variety of scenarios the officers may encounter around the state on their patrols.”

The training includes accident investigation, boating under the influence (BUII) detection and apprehension, as well as other types of boater compliance with equipment, boating safety education cards, or waterway access permits. Students will develop their basic boat-handling skills and participate in real-world scenarios emphasizing safety, courtesy, enforcement tactics, and accident prevention.

The marine academy is hosted by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office along with highly skilled deputies from around the state, taking an active role as instructors.