Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2002
For more information:  Bill Shattuck, 773-4506

WINTER GOOD TIME FOR BOATING BASICS COURSE

PIERRE – January usually puts the "freeze" on South Dakota’s boating enthusiasts, however, Game, Fish and Parks officials say boat and watercraft owners can stay active by becoming safer boaters and, at the same time, possibly save a little money on their boat or personal watercraft insurance. How? By taking a free correspondence course called Boating Basics.

"The department’s policy is to promote the safety and enjoyment of every person who uses the waters of this state," said Game, Fish and Parks Boating Safety Specialist Bill Shattuck. "Through education, regulation and enforcement, the department hopes to ensure that boating can continue to grow in both safety and popularity. To help with this, we offer a free correspondence course called Boating Basics. It is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard."

He added that those who have passed the course may be eligible for a 10 percent discount on their insurance premium. Boaters should inquire with their insurance agent.

A copy of the course is available by request from the department’s website at

www.state.sd.us/gfp/DivisionWildlife/Requests.htm, GFP offices, by calling (605) 773-3485 or by writing to Boating Safety, Department of Game, Fish and parks, 412 W. Missouri, Pierre, S.D. 57501.

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