News Release

COLUMBUS, OH -- Nine organizations across Ohio will receive a total of $71,010 in Boating Safety Education Grants, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) announced today. The grants assist local agencies and organizations in offering boating safety oriented programs.

"Educating boaters is one of the best ways to keep Ohio's waterways safe and enjoyable," said ODNR Director Sam Speck. "These grants will be used to promote a variety of safe boating education programs across the state."

According to Speck, Ohio ranks among the ten safest recreational boating states in the nation. Last year's boating season was the fourth safest on record in Ohio.

As part of the Boating Safety Education Grant, each recipient will provide or promote an approved boating safety course that will count toward Ohio's mandatory boater education program which takes effect January 1, 2000. The new law requires persons born on or after January 1, 1982 to provide proof of successful completion of an approved boating course or a proficiency test in order to operate a boat greater than ten horsepower.

Boating Safety Education Grants are funded through the Waterways Safety Fund, supported primarily by boat registration fees and a portion of Ohio's motor fuel tax. The division plans to announce additional Boating Safety Education grants this spring.