Boaters urged to take classes

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is using the annual “Spring Aboard” (www.springaboard.org) boater education campaign to remind people of the sometimes life-saving and often mandatory training that’s available ahead of boating season.

“Many education providers offer discounts or other incentives for students during the week of March 18-24, 2018 to enroll in a boating education course,” a news release states. “Persons interested in a Montana boat education course can request a home-study course, take a course online or attend a classroom course offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.”

According to the news release, Montana requires operators of some powered vessels to provide proof of completing a boating education course, and requires 13- and 14-year-olds to have a valid motorboat operator’s safety certificate or be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older when operating a motorboat, jet ski or other personal watercraft with a motor of 10 horsepower or more.

Information on courses and regulations can be found at fwp.mt.gov/education/outdoorRec/boatingFloatingKayaking/.