Brevard County’s extensive coastline, inland waterways, canals and lakes present unique challenges for law enforcement and emergency rescue operations. The responsibility to meet these challenges falls to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural and Marine Unit.

Using specialized equipment such as V-hull vessels, airboats, 4×4 trucks and all-terrain vehicles the Unit enforces marine laws and ordinances, responds to calls for service, investigates boating accidents and conducts boating education and safety inspections. The Unit works in conjunction with other state and federal entities on homeland security issues and with the interdiction of illegal activities such as narcotics and refugees. Additionally, the Ag/Marine Unit works closely with local farms and ranches to help keep the county’s natural resources well preserved for future generations.

As active outdoor enthusiasts and resource enforcement deputies we are aware of the vast amount of information needed to stay legal and safe in your outdoor activities. We have encompassed a large amount of information that we feel will assist you in your goal to be a safe, and skilled outdoor steward utilizing Brevard Counties spectacular natural resources.

Safe Boating Tips from BCSO

The State of Florida ranks first in the nation in number of boating accidents. The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office would like to offer these tips to help you avoid trouble while afloat:

• Complete a boating education course. One of the primary factors contributing to vessel accidents is operator inexperience.
• Get your boat checked for safety’s sake. The Vessel Safety Check (VCS) is a free public service offered by Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron volunteer organizations.
• Always wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket and make sure all your passengers wear one too.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages while boating. More than one-third of all boating deaths resulting from collisions involved alcohol use.
• Be aware of weather conditions before heading out on the water and know what to do if the weather suddenly changes.
• Have a working marine radio on board at all times and know how to use it.
• Pack extra gear you may need. A flashlight with fresh batteries, flares, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and drinking water are a few items that should be packed in a watertight container that floats.
• Tell someone where you are going, who is with you, and how long you plan to be out. Then stick to your travel plans.
• Ventilate after fueling. Open hatches, run the blower, and check for fuel fumes before starting the engine.
• Know your boat’s capacity and how to properly load it. An overloaded or improperly loaded boat can cause safety problems.

The Ag/Marine Unit may attend Homeowner Association meetings when they relate to waterway issues and concerns and also participates in the county’s Marine Advisory Council Board.

Links & Resources

• Boating Safety Resource Center: US Coast Guard – www.uscgboating.org
• Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission – www.myfwc.com

Unit Contact Information

For more information call 321-454-6643 or specialops@bcso.us.