Resources for Current OSU Boat Operators on File with the Boating Safety Program

1. Boating Work Plan

The OSU Boating Work Plan provides information on the vessel and environment, tasks to be completed, hazards and mitigation, and skills and abilities of the Operator and Crew and must be completed and approved by the OSU DBSO and Small Boat Advisory Group prior to each new scientific boating project.

2. Float plan

Small boat research operations must include use of a Designated Shore Contact (DSC) approved by the DBSO, and use of the OSU Float Plan.  Alternate formats may be used, but must incorporate equivalent information and the use of a DSC. Closed float plans with on-water time recorded are forwarded to the Boating Safety Office at the end of boating activities.

3. Trainings

Motorboats- OSU is a member of the Scientific Boating Safety Association (SBSA), and the SBSA Motorboat Operator Training Course (MOTC) represents the core competencies expected of an individual operating a small motorboat for research at OSU. MOTC content is based on the U.S. Department of Interior Motorboat Operator Certification Course (MOCC). Contact the DBSO with questions regarding MOTC training or equivalency.

Paddle Craft- The OSU Small Boat Safety Program recognizes the American Canoe Association-(ACA) as a source of appropriate “community standards” for basic paddle craft operational knowledge. The OSU Adventure Leadership Institute (ALI) is a center for ACA training and paddle craft expertise at OSU, and the OSU Small Boat Safety Program works closely with the ALI to coordinate training and provide advice for researchers utilizing paddle craft in their field work.

4. Vessel inspection

Vessels- small motorboats and paddle craft used for research must have the appropriate permits and be registered with the State of Oregon if applicable, and display vessel information as required. Vessels should be equipped with all mandated safety equipment, as well as any additional safety equipment appropriate for the vessel and environment. Vessels should be safely prepared and well-suited for the intended research tasks (consider vessel stability, vessel capacity, etc). Vessels should also operate with a current inspection covering the aforementioned items (vessel inspections can be arranged through the OSU Small Boat Safety Program) and a Vessel Information Form should be on file with the OSU Boating Safety Office.

Personal Water Craft (PWC)- PWCs are considered Class A motor vessels by the USCG and Oregon State Marine Board and at a minimum are governed by rules and regulations applicable to these types of vessels. PWC’s also have their own unique characteristics and require specific knowledge and skill sets to be operated safely for research. Individuals using PWCs for research should contact the OSU DBSO for a review of work plans and potential training needs.