Matagorda County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Texas Sea Grant
Written by: Amy Nowlin
Boating enthusiasts gathered at the Rusty Hook Ranch to participate in a comprehensive, six-hour boater education course aimed at promoting safe and responsible operation on Texas waterways on March 13.
Participants earned their official boater education certification through a series of demonstrations and hands-on activities designed to enhance their understanding of boating safety.
The Rusty Hook Ranch generously provided the venue for the event, ensuring a comfortable and scenic setting for learning.
In addition to hosting, they treated participants to a hot dog luncheon, allowing students, instructors, and guests to take a well-earned break.
The course was facilitated and instructed through a joint effort between Matagorda County and Calhoun County AgriLife Extension | Texas Sea Grant staff.
Amy Nowlin, the local Coastal and Marine Resources Agent, and Greg Baker, local Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, played key roles in organizing the event.
RJ Shelley, the Coastal and Marine Resources Agent from Calhoun County, provided his expertise on the topic.
Shelley, who has held a captain’s license since 1996, shared valuable insights on navigation, safety protocols, and responsible boating practices.
The event featured expert guest speakers from the Matagorda County Sheriff’s Department, including Sherriff Rick DeLeon and Deputy Jake Roberts, Matagorda Fire and Rescue volunteers Troy Keen and Gail Cook, and Matagorda County Game Warden, Hannah Tant.
Students engaged in safety drills, learned the importance of being responsible operators, and discovered ways to be good stewards of local waterways.
One of the key lessons focused on the importance of personal flotation devices (PFDs) and how they play a critical role in preventing drowning.
In Texas, drowning is the leading cause of boating-related deaths, with many victims found not wearing a life jacket.
Students learned how to properly fit and wear PFDs, as well as the different types available for various boating activities. Instructors emphasized that wearing a life jacket at all times while on the water can significantly reduce the risk of drowning, especially in unexpected emergencies.
Both the Matagorda County Sheriff’s Department and Matagorda Fire and Rescue brought in their boats for participants to explore up close.
Officers and rescue personnel provided in-depth explanations of the features and functions of their vessels, highlighting how they are used in emergency situations such as water rescues and law enforcement patrols.
In addition to these official boats, participants had the opportunity to tour several other watercraft available on the property.
This included personal watercraft like jet skis, which are commonly used for recreation but require careful handling and safety precautions.
They also got a closer look at a kayak, learning about its stability, maneuverability, and the importance of wearing a properly fitted personal flotation device while paddling.
These hands-on experiences allowed students to see firsthand the different types of vessels they may encounter on the water and reinforced the importance of responsible operation and safety measures.
To earn their certification, participants were required to pass a state exam demonstrating their knowledge of boating laws, navigation rules, and safety procedures. This exam ensures that operators understand essential skills needed to prevent accidents and protect both themselves and others while on the water.
Boating accidents remain a significant concern in Texas.
According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the state sees an average of 150-175 boating accidents per year, with causes ranging from operator inattention and inexperience to excessive speed and alcohol use.
The boater education course emphasized the importance of proper safety measures to reduce these risks.
Texas law requires anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, to complete a boater education course to legally operate a personal watercraft, a motorboat over 15 horsepower, or a windblown vessel over 14 feet.
With the successful completion of this program, participants left with the skills and knowledge to enjoy Texas waterways safely while protecting the coastal environment.
For more information on boater education requirements and upcoming courses, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or contact the Matagorda County Texas A&M Extension office.