The Washington State Parks Boating Program is looking for an experienced, safety-conscious boater to fill an open position on its advisory council.

The all-volunteer council advises State Parks’ Boating Program, which administers the Recreational Boating Safety Program and the state’s Clean Vessel Program. These programs work to prevent boating-related accidents and fund recreational boating sanitary facilities, respectively. The programs also administer Washington’s mandatory boating education law, provide revenue to local law enforcement agencies for maritime law enforcement training and promote safe and clean boating practices.

The 15-member council comprises representatives from all aspects of recreational boating including kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, canoeing, rowing, powerboating, sailing and/or personal water craft use. The current volunteer opening is for a boater-at-large, with no specific affiliation to one boating activity or organization. Interested parties also should possess a boater education card or proof of equivalent boating education.

The Boating Program Advisory Council meets four times a year at State Parks Headquarters in Tumwater. In 2018, the council meets on March 15, May 29, Sept. 20 and Nov. 15. Meetings last from 2 to 6 hours, and the term of service is  three years. Members of the council may be reimbursed for travel expenses as provided for by State Parks policy.

Where possible, recommendations for appointment to the council are based on a geographical distribution of one-third from eastern Washington and two-thirds from western Washington.

Those interested in serving on the council must submit an application for appointment, a letter of interest and a resume. Deadline for consideration is Wednesday, Feb. 7. To obtain an application and to apply, contact Doni Thomas, at doni.thomas@parks.wa.gov or send an inquiry to:

Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission

Boating Program

Attn: Doni Thomas

PO Box 42650

Olympia, WA 98504-2650

About the Washington State Boating Program 

Washington State Parks administers the state’s Boating Program, which provides leadership in boating safety and environmental education and outreach. The goal of the program is to reduce accidents and fatalities, increase stewardship of Washington waterways, and keep recreational boating a safe, accessible and enjoyable pastime. For more information on the Boating Program, visit: www.washingtonstateparks.us/Boating.

– Washington State Parks