For Immediate Release

Date: April 2, 2003

Marine Deputies Learn The Ropes at Rilea

Marine law enforcement officers from 13 counties will converge on Camp Rilea, near Astoria, for an intensive two-week training course beginning April 7. 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.

The Oregon State Marine Board holds the Marine Safety and Law Enforcement (MSLE) 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.

"This training is unique in the nation," said Tony VanMeter, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Oregon State Marine Board. "No other state invests this type of up-front training in their marine law enforcement programs. It's proven effective at promoting uniform, professional service to the state's boaters."

The Marine Board began training officers through a correspondence course in the 1970s. The course evolved into a full two-week program in 1993. Attendance has been as high as 60 students in past years. "We have 33 registered this year - down significantly from past years, but still a very good group," said VanMeter. "The decline might actually be a good thing - it means we're seeing less turn-over in the field so we have fewer new recruits who need to attend the course."

During the two weeks, marine officers will gain a basic understanding of marine law, how to apply it, boat handling skills, and "Boating Under the Influence" and marine theft detection. "Our goal is to provide new recruits with a solid foundation so they can apply their skills appropriately and professionally in the field," said VanMeter. "If they get off to a good start here, they learn faster in the field and provide better service to boaters."

One benefit of bringing officers in from diverse organizations is the cooperative spirit that develops between the organizations. "Having a coast guard, state police and county marine officer train together means they will work together better in the real world, where jurisdictional lines often cross," said VanMeter. "That can save time and money - even lives - when those connections exist."

The first week of training is primarily classroom focused. During the second week, officers hit the water to improve boat handling and on-water law enforcement skills. Officers will spend several days on Cullaby Lake practicing boat handling skills in an obstacle course and slalom run. Volunteers on recreational boats will assist by portraying anglers, intoxicated operators or boaters with motor problems. Instructors will guide students through the activities, and correct or critique them as necessary.

"This is only one piece of the training we provide to marine officers across the state, but it's a big piece and serves as the foundation for our other efforts," said VanMeter.

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Editor's Note: You are invited to attend on-water training exercises during the annual Marine Safety Law Enforcement academy at Cullaby Lake, near Astoria, on April 16, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Activities include boat handling tests (obstacle and slalom course), routine safety inspections, rescue skills and more. Ride-alongs will be provided on request. Call Tony VanMeter (503) 373-1405 x242, for information or special arrangements.