In 2000, we will continue saturation patrols, hitting some of this summer's targets as well as choosing some new ones. Saturation patrols provide several benefits, says Rowland. First, they help us catch operational, equipment and BUI violations across an entire waterbody in one intensive effort. Second, they help us evaluate a waterbody to see what kinds of problems we may have out there with different user groups. We can look at those problems as an indicator to measure if county marine patrols have enough resources, training and equipment to effectively enforce boating laws.
Saturation patrols are also excellent 'on the job training' for marine deputies.
Deputies learn special skills in Marine Safety and Law Enforcement training classes each spring and summer. During a saturation patrol, they have the chance to practice those skills in an intensive two or three day effort. Though the summer boating season is coming to an end, marine patrols across the state will continue their patrols into the fall as anglers and hunters take to the waterways.