Howdy everyone! I am new to this site but wanted to introduce myself and chime in on the discussion. My name is Dan Shipman and I am the Coast Guard Recreational Boating Safety Program Manager for the Thirteenth Coast Guard District in Seattle. I have one of the best jobs in the world in that I get paid to help educate boaters and answer their questions regarding boating safety issues.

I am no stranger to the region, I was raised in McMinnville Oregon and Commercial Salmon fished with my father out of Pacific City for few years. Upon Graduation from High school I joined the Coast Guard and stuck with it for the next 23 years. I have been stationed pretty much everywhere from Brookings to Quillayute River, Instructed at the National Motor Lifeboat School and was Officer in Charge at Quillayute River and Tillamook Bay. I am now a civilian working out of the district office and I work directly with the state boating programs as well as other boating safety organization in the four Northwestern States.

My purpose for getting on these type sites is to help the boater better understand regulations and requirements as well as explain the reasons behind these regulations. It also gives me the opportunity to discuss issues and concerns directly with the boaters. I also love to fish. Believe it or not I am here to help, there may be times when we disagree but at least our opinions are shared and we all can benefit from the discussion and hopefully make a difference in someone’s life.

Feel free to E mail me with questions and I will do my best to help answer them. Have a safe and FUN summer.

Dan

Welcome to the forum, Dan. Looking forward to your input in all matters boating (and fishing) related.

Here is your first forum question or two from an uneducated boater 18'or less.
1] Does the boat fire extinguisher have an expiration date on it?
2] Do I need flares if I don't go in salt water or the Columbia river?
Glad to have you with us.
Bill