Boaters should be aware of on-the-water training in Commencement Bay
OLYMPIA – Sept. 9, 2015 – The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission’s Boating Program is hosting the 27th Annual Marine Law Enforcement Conference and Enhanced Vessel Operators Course this month in Tacoma.
The conference takes place Sept. 22-25 at the Foss Waterway Seaport and the on-the-water vessel operator training takes place Sept. 19-30 in Commencement Bay. During this time, nearly 120 marine law enforcement officers from all around the state, other states and even Guam will participate in continuing education and training, share information and learn new technologies to help improve public safety on marine and fresh waters.
The public can expect to see up to 10 to 12 law enforcement vessels training on Commencement Bay during the afternoons of the Sept. 22-30 trainings. Boats will be doing drills, stops, pursuits and shadowing techniques. State Parks Boating Program requests that other boaters in the area steer clear of the vessels during these training sessions.
For more information about the conference and the activities on the water, contact Hoyle Hodges, Marine Law Enforcement Coordinator, 360-701-3512 (mobile), hoyle.hodges@parks.wa.gov or visit the conference website at http://mleconference.com/.
Washington State Parks Boating Program
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission administers the state’s Recreational Boating Safety and Clean Vessel Act programs. Both programs are funded by the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund. The goal of these programs is to reduce accidents and fatalities, increase stewardship of Washington waterways, and keep recreational boating a safe, accessible and enjoyable pastime. Partners include law enforcement agencies, state agencies, marinas and boating organizations across Washington.
For more information on the Boating Program and boating regulations, visit www.parks.wa.gov/boating or call 360-902-8555.
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About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
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Media contacts:
Toni Droscher, (360) 902-8604
Lynn Satre, (360) 902-8837
Wash. Telecommunications Relay Service: (800) 833-6388
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