LDWF Receives National Recognition

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division is the first agency in the United States to earn national accreditation in the Boat Operations and Training (BOAT) program administered by the National Association of Safe Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).  NASBLA says the BOAT program establishes a national standard for the training and qualification of maritime law enforcement and rescue personnel.  The LDWF Enforcement Division is the first agency to implement the BOAT standard in all aspects of operations and training, including cadet training at the academy level and training of partners throughout the state across all jurisdictions.  LDWF officials say the BOAT program will enhance LDWF's training plans in the areas of basic crewmember, boat operator for search and rescue and tactical operations.  The LDWF Enforcement Division is an active participant in Louisiana's Homeland Security Plan and represents the state in waterborne emergencies.  Through the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, LDWF is the lead agency for search and rescue operations during natural disasters and maritime security of Louisiana's vital business and government interests along the coast and major rivers.