LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – On Aug. 5, 10 Lake County residents passed an approved boating safety course hosted by US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 8-8.

Passing the course will enable them to obtain the new California Boater Card, which will be required by a new state law that goes into effect Jan. 1, 2018.

They will now submit the proof of successfully completing the required course to the state and a Vessel Operator Card – also referred to as the California Boater Card – will be issued by the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways.

Once issued, the card remains valid for a boat operator’s lifetime.

The response to the auxiliary’s offer of a boating safety class was well received with the first class being filled.

The next class offered will be held on two evenings to accommodate residents unable to attend day classes.

This class will be held Aug. 22 and Aug. 24 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The cost is $25 per person and the class size is limited to 10 people.

Another day class will be offered on Saturday, Sept. 16.

For more information, please call 707-657-3029.

Dorothy De Lope is public affairs officer for the USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 8-8 of Lake County.