A boating safety course will be held at the Nebraska Game and Parks District Office in North Platte on Saturday, February 23, according to Scott Eveland, Boating Safety Officer for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.  Although this is the first of several offerings in North Platte, Eveland encourages people to take the class early to avoid the summer rush.

According to Eveland, the Nebraska Boating Safety course is required of all power boat operators born after December 31, 1985, which includes operators of personal watercraft and all other motorboats.  The minimum age to operate a motorboat in Nebraska is 14.

The six-hour class covers everything from equipment requirements to safe boat operation and accident prevention, and is a great course for both new and experienced boaters. Boat owners who complete the class may qualify for insurance discounts. Parents are encouraged to attend with their children and boaters of all ages are welcome.  Students must be at least 14, or turning 14 this calendar year to be certified. The six-hour class is from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 23.  Students should bring a sack lunch, and there is a $10 fee this course.  A minimum of 10 pre-registered students is required or the class will be postponed.

To register for the class call the NGPC office at (308) 535-8025, or for additional information, contact Boating Safety Officer Eveland at (308) 289-0017 or [email protected]  For information on additional classes in Nebraska, visit www.outdoornebraska.org/boating.

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