COLUMBUS, OH - A total of $365,419 in grant awards have been announced by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft to support 34 community boating safety education and boating skills courses during 2009. The grant awards range from a low of $1,018.50 to a high of $28,666.51.

"Ohio remains strong in its commitment of supporting community education programs that seek to improve boating safety and provide the skills necessary to safely enjoy recreational boating on our waterways," said Pamela S. Dillon, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft.

Last January, the Division of Watercraft announced the awarding of $364,417 in boating safety education program grants that funded 33 community programs statewide this year. Funding for the Boating Safety Education Grant Program is provided through the Ohio Waterways Safety Fund, which is comprised of a share of the state motor fuels tax, watercraft registration and titling fees and funding from the U.S. Coast Guard. Additional information on boating safety education and other boating programs can be found online at www.ohiodnr.com and by calling toll-free 877-4BOATER (877-426-2837).

Ohio boaters are reminded that state law requires any person born on or after January 1, 1982 to be able to show proof they have successfully completed a boater safety education course of instruction that is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators if they operate any watercraft powered by a motor greater than ten horsepower or provide supervision to an underage watercraft operator.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.