ST. LOUIS – Boarding officers from Coast Guard Sector Upper Mississippi River conducted law enforcement boardings on the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, Friday, June 15 through Sunday, June 17.
The Coast Guard boarded nine total vessels, five of which were chartered vessels. Each charter operation was found to be operating legally. The boarding teams also assisted the Missouri Water Patrol Division with the processing of an intoxicated boater and issued a warning for a missing rental agreement on board a bareboat charter.
The emphasis of the boardings were to promote marine safety, identify unsafe or hazardous conditions, educate the boating public, and enforce applicable laws and regulations.
The Lake of the Ozarks is recognized as a navigable waterway and is federally regulated by the Coast Guard.
“The Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most dangerous bodies of water in the United States according to Coast Guard boating statistics,” said Capt. Martin Malloy, Coast Guard captain of the port. “Most of the accidents, injuries, and deaths that occur are preventable and the Coast Guard is committed to raising awareness of safe boating practices as well as taking enforcement action against illegal operators.”
