Water Patrol

The Stearns County Sheriff's Water Patrol fulfills the statutory duties of the Office of the Sheriff associated with the use of public and private waters: to provide public safety to users of the public waterways; to investigate incidents on both public and private water; to promote boat and water safety education to citizens of Stearns County; and to maximize the efficient use of available resources in providing these services.

The Water Patrol is responsible for the placement, removal, and maintenance of 65 buoys and their anchors that mark the no-wake zones, dangers, and channels. They give boating and water safety talks to schools and citizen groups in Stearns County. They are responsible for inspecting the rental watercraft throughout Stearns County. The Water Patrol members also assist the Stearns County Sheriff's Department Dive Team in search and recovery operations, as well as their training.

Water Patrol also monitors the placement of temporary water structures, such as swimming rafts and ski jumps. If you're planning to place a temporary structure in a lake or river, be sure to complete the Application to Place Temporary Structure in Water.