Marine law enforcement from around the state are learning and perfecting their drift boating skills on the Rogue River this week.
The Oregon State Marine Board reports the students will be learning to swim in whitewater, practicing rescue techniques, navigating Class 3 rapids, and operating in remote environments with drift boats, rafts and catarafts.
Eddie Persichetti, Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board, said running whitewater takes training and practice. He said the best way to learn is hands-on experience on a dynamic waterway such as the Rogue River with experienced instructors.
Each day the students drift various river sections, beginning with Class 1 rapids. The skills the officers gain give them a strong foundation in their law enforcement roles when they return to their patrol areas.
Recreational boaters can expect to see law enforcement students drifting on the Upper Rogue from Rogue Elk Park to TouVelle Park in Jackson County from today through Thursday. They will be on the Middle Rogue from Ennis Riffle to Argo Canyon in Josephine County on Friday.
For more information about boating laws and regulations, visit "Boat.Oregon.gov."
