'Volunteers' handle most emergencies

I was disappointed to see that Bonner County government is planning to buy and staff yet another police patrol boat, in addition to the five it already has. Let’s face it: the main function of the marine patrols is to hassle boaters about registration fees and regulations. Last year, they stopped more than 2,600 boats, including more than 1,000 canoes and kayaks.

Marine officials justify the increased burden on taxpayers and boaters by claiming that an additional boat might improve emergency rescue. They have overlooked that the main rescue system on Lake Pend Oreille is the community of boaters on the lake, as well as people living and camping alongside it. These thousands of neighbors are the ones who spot and react to emergencies.

Some years ago, my nephew and I were caught in uncomfortably high waves while canoeing. Assistance came not from any Sheriff’s boat but from Gary Pietsch in Peaches, who politely shadowed us until we made it to shore safely. The “volunteer” system takes care of most of the emergency and support needs on the lake. We should work to strengthen this system of individual courtesy and helpfulness, and not displace it with an ever-expanding coercive bureaucracy.

JIM PAYNE

Sandpoint