Illinois Waterway Visitor Center to host free boating safety classes

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, is offering free boating safety education classes April 20, May 18, June 15, July 20 and Aug. 17 at the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center, 950 N. 27th Road, in rural Ottawa.

Each class runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is open to anyone 11 or older. Completion of one course is necessary for certification.

New boaters as well as seasoned individuals looking to brush up on safe boating knowledge are encouraged to take the course. No on-the-water experience is offered during the classroom-based course.

Upon successful completion of the class and exam, participants will be issued an Illinois Department of Natural Resources boat safety certification, which is honored in both Iowa and Illinois.

Registration for the class is required, and youth younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Space is limited, and classes fill quickly. To register, call the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center at 815-667-4054.

For information, visit mvr.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Illinois-Waterway/Boater-Safety-Classes.