The Branch County Marine Patrol is a vital part of the Branch County Sheriff’s Department, dedicated to keeping our lakes safe, enjoyable, and respectful for everyone. Just like road patrol deputies, Marine Patrol officers are here to enforce the rules—only their "roads" are the beautiful waterways we all love.
Whether you’re boating, swimming, or simply enjoying a day by the water, the Marine Patrol is out there to ensure everyone stays safe and follows responsible boating practices. Their presence helps prevent accidents, promotes awareness, and encourages fun on the water with safety in mind.
Below, you'll find information that explains their role, highlights the impact of their patrol efforts, and provides insights into how they serve our community.
Our goal is to strengthen the connection between the Marine Patrol and the people they protect. We hope this helps you understand not just what they do—but why they do it.
Whether you’re boating, swimming, or simply enjoying a day by the water, the Marine Patrol is out there to ensure everyone stays safe and follows responsible boating practices. Their presence helps prevent accidents, promotes awareness, and encourages fun on the water with safety in mind.
Below, you'll find information that explains their role, highlights the impact of their patrol efforts, and provides insights into how they serve our community.
Our goal is to strengthen the connection between the Marine Patrol and the people they protect. We hope this helps you understand not just what they do—but why they do it.
July 2025 Marine Patrol Summary
In July, the Branch County Marine Patrol logged 145.25 hours on area lakes, continuing their mission of promoting safety through education, visibility, and enforcement.
Here’s a quick look at their activity:
Improper boating direction
Many boaters are still not following the required counterclockwise pattern on inland lakes.
Tip: Keep the nearest shoreline on your right (starboard) while navigating.
Slow/No Wake violations
Enforced in marked channels and within 100 feet of docks, swimmers, anchored boats, and shorelines. These rules protect people, property, and the lake’s ecosystem.
Life Jacket Reminder
Children under 6 years old must wear a properly fitted, US Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on the open deck of a moving vessel.
Additional Highlights:
Here’s a quick look at their activity:
- 86 total contacts made
- 74 verbal warnings issued
- 6 citations issued
- 11 complaints responded to
- 1 boating accident
- 1 OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) arrest
Improper boating direction
Many boaters are still not following the required counterclockwise pattern on inland lakes.
Tip: Keep the nearest shoreline on your right (starboard) while navigating.
Slow/No Wake violations
Enforced in marked channels and within 100 feet of docks, swimmers, anchored boats, and shorelines. These rules protect people, property, and the lake’s ecosystem.
Life Jacket Reminder
Children under 6 years old must wear a properly fitted, US Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on the open deck of a moving vessel.
Additional Highlights:
- 1 boating safety class remains this year — October 18 at Coldwater Lake Association
- 95 students have been certified so far in 2025
- Joint training conducted with Tribal Police on the St. Joe River
- Participated in Operation Dry Water
- Assisted with fireworks patrols on Craig, Coldwater, Marble, and Cemetery Lakes
- Attended the Polish Festival Parade in Bronson
June 2025 Marine Patrol Summary
In June, the Branch County Marine Patrol logged 102.5 hours on area lakes, focusing on safety through education and awareness.
Here’s a quick look at their activity:
Top Reasons for Stops:
The Marine Patrol is here to help, not to punish—so let’s all do our part to make the lakes safe and enjoyable for everyone!
Here’s a quick look at their activity:
- 88 total contacts were made
- 82 verbal warnings issued
- 4 citations issued
Top Reasons for Stops:
- Improper boating direction
- Many boaters failed to follow the counterclockwise rotation pattern, especially on busy weekends.
- Tip: Keep the nearest shoreline on your right (starboard) to maintain safe, organized traffic flow.
- Slow/No Wake violations
- Enforced in channels to prevent erosion
- Required within 100 feet of boats, swimmers, docks, and shorelines for everyone’s safety
The Marine Patrol is here to help, not to punish—so let’s all do our part to make the lakes safe and enjoyable for everyone!