The Environmental Police is committed to protecting the safety of the boating public through its' boater education program, as well as its' marine enforcement efforts. We believe that the expansion of educational opportunities since the program's inception in 1986 has had a positive impact on the reduction of boat accidents and the overall safety of boaters. Our boating safety programs which are coordinated through the Boat and Recreational Vehicle Safety Bureau, target the young and novice boater, as well as the personal watercraft user. All programs are free, offered throughout the state, and open to the public regardless of race, gender, national origin, age, or disability. Its primary purpose is to enhance safety on our waterways by developing an increased awareness of safe boating practices, ethical and legal responsibilities and general marine knowledge.
Instructors are environmental police officers and state volunteers.
A test is administered during the final class and upon successful completion, a safety certificate is awarded to students. Upon successful completion of the course, a state boating safety certificate is issued to the minor and must be in the possession of the certified operator when underway. In order to receive the required state certificate, students must pass a state boating law quiz in addition to the course's exam and submit the appropriate application to our safety bureau. The purpose of this course is to foster a safe attitude in the pwc user, by developing an increased awareness of safe boating practices, pwc handling, and legal responsibilities. These minors upon completing a boating safety course and pwc class will receive an endorsed safety certificate for pwc which they must carry on board when operating.