FWP reminds boaters of decals and safety classes

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks reminds owners of motorboats, sailboats or personal watercraft that they need to get new, free 2014-2017 validation decals for their watercraft soon. The current orange decals expired Feb. 28.

Those who have permanently registered their boats, sailboats or personal watercraft must still obtain two free boat validation decals every three years either at FWP regional and area offices or online at http://fwp.mt.gov and clicking “Boat Validation Decals.”

Owners who order validation decals online will receive decals in the mail. Information included on a current boat registration receipt issued by the County Treasurer is needed to obtain the decals in person or online.

Boat operators are also reminded that it’s a good idea to take a boating safety course. FWP’s boat education program includes a home-study course and an online education course for motorboat and personal watercraft operators.

Motorboat operators age 13 and 14 are required to complete a boating course before operating a vessel with no adult on board. Anyone 13 years or older who successfully completes the course will receive a motorboat operators certificate.

For more information, visit online at http://fwp.mt.gov, go to the “Education” page and click “Outdoor Recreation” then “Boating, Floating, and Kayaking.” To obtain the motorboat home-study course packet, contact the FWP office in Kalispell at 406-752-5501 or in Helena at 406-444-2535.