Funding cut sinks half of Walla Walla County’s summer boat patrols

WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office is reconfiguring its marine safety operations this summer following a sudden loss of traditional state funding that has supported local boat patrols for four decades.

Chief Deputy Richard Schram confirmed that the agency will cut its proactive water patrols by half after Washington State Parks stopped passing through federal United States Coast Guard dollars intended for recreational boating safety. Schram noted that while the agency historically relied on roughly $11,000 to $12,000 in annual state-administered grants, the state did not reimburse those funds this year.

The funding shift is reportedly tied to jurisdictional and political complexities regarding federal oversight. Schram explained that because the United States Coast Guard falls under the United States Department of Homeland Security, the state has hesitated to accept the funds due to concerns over federal partnerships involving immigration and border enforcement.

Despite the shortfall, Schram emphasized that the Marine Division — which utilizes one specialized boat and two personal watercraft — remains committed to public safety on the Snake, Columbia, and Walla Walla rivers.

“We are still going to be out there, but it’s going to be about half the time that we normally would have,” Schram said.

To maximize limited resources, deputies will shift their focus toward boat launches. By conducting safety inspections and monitoring boaters as they exit the water, Schram believes the department can still effectively intercept intoxicated operators and ensure vessels are properly equipped.

The announcement coincides with National Safe Boating Week, as the department urges the public to remain vigilant despite the reduced presence of proactive patrols on the water.

Photo courtesy Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office

---

• 
• 
• 

---

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

---

Elkhorn Media Group