WWSO offers free boating classes

WALLA WALLA—The Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office (WWCSO) and the Washington State Parks Safe Boating Programs are offering the Adventures in Boating class for free in Burbank

Chief Deputy Richard Schram is a state-certified instructor for the Adventures in Boating class. He will teach the course and certify boaters applying for their mandatory Boater Education Card from Washington State Parks.

The free classes will be held in Burbank, Wash., in April and Walla Walla, Wash., in May.

The first class will be held at 9 a.m. on April 15 at Fire Station 51, 460 W. Humorist Rd., Burbank, Wash.

The second class is scheduled for 9 a.m. on May 13 at Fire Station 41, 2251 Howard St., Walla Walla, Wash.

In Washington, boaters over age 12 are required to complete an approved boating education course to earn a Boater Education Card issued by Washington State Parks. Boat operators must carry the card on board the vessel. It must be available for inspection by an enforcement officer.

It is not required to have a Washington State driver’s license to obtain a Boater Education Card.

Washington State Parks will accept NASBLA-approved education cards from visitors from other states, territories, and provinces boating in Washington. Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards meeting Transport Canada requirements are acceptable for visitors from Canada.

The education requirement is not required for boaters born before January 1, 1955, holding valid U.S. Coast Guard Marine Operator’s licenses, or operating vessels with engines under 15 hp.

However, those people are still encouraged to attend the class because it provides refresher information and first-hand experience from professionals working in the marine environment.

The Washington Boater Education Card is approved by The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and recognized by all other states requiring a Boater Education Card. A Boater Education Card proves a boater has completed all the components of an approved Boating Safety Course and allows the holder to go boating legally. The Boating Education Card or certificate does not expire or need to be renewed, so boaters only need to take the class once.

If you are interested in signing up for these classes through the Walla Walla Sheriff’s Office please email Chief Deputy Schram at RSchram@co.walla-walla.wa.us to reserve a spot. Reservations are limited and are on a first-come, first-served basis. A return email will be sent to confirm registration.