Lincoln, Neb. – Classes are now forming for 14- to 17-year-olds who must successfully complete a boating safety course before operating a boat or personal watercraft in Nebraska.

Everyone under 18 years of age who wants to operate a boat, including personal watercraft, must have successfully completed a boating safety course and have a valid boating safety certificate in his or her possession, according to Herb Angell, Nebraska Boating Law Administrator.

Angell says Nebraska law allows only people 18 years of age and older to operate boats, including personal watercraft, in Nebraska waters. The only exception is for people ages 14 to 18 who have satisfactorily completed a boating safety course approved by the Commission and who have a valid boating safety certificate in their possession.

Nebraska recognizes the successful completion of certified boating safety courses in other states. It is important to note that completion of the Home Study Boating Education Course does not fulfill personal watercraft education requirements for persons under 18 years.

Here are the latest additions to the growing list of Boating Education classes scheduled across the state. For information regarding classes, contact your local Nebraska Game and Parks Commission office or check on the Boating page at www.outdoornebraska.org. Additional information will be posted as it is received, so check often to learn about new classes forming in your area.

Newly scheduled classes include:

May 31 – 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. – Maxwell

Maranatha Bible Camp, 16800 East Maranatha Road, to register contact Scott Eveland, (308) 289-0017, no registration fee, bring sack lunch

June 10 – 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. – Plattsmouth

Hosanna Lutheran Fellowship Center, 700 South 18 Street, to register contact Larry Wieczorek, (402) 235-2564, $10 registration fee