By Rich Larson, KYMN News
Last month, the Rice County Board of Directors approved a new river patrol boat for the County Sheriff’s Water Patrol Division. The current river boat is about 15 years old, and will be replaced by a modern, purpose‑built model designed for the county’s diverse river and lake conditions. The Water Patrol Division has relied on its current boat for roughly 15 years, using it for rescue operations, routine patrols, and public‑safety support. After years of heavy use and exposure to challenging river environments, the vessel is nearing the end of its practical service life, prompting the county to move forward with a full replacement.
The new patrol boat, which along with its trailer will cost just under $44,000, will be a 20‑foot shallow‑water craft built specifically for maneuvering through debris‑filled rivers, rocky channels, and tight bends where traditional boats struggle. the motor with which it is outfitted is designed for torque and durability rather than speed, giving deputies the ability to navigate safely through areas with submerged obstacles, shifting currents, and variable depths.
The vessel will arrive fully outfitted for law‑enforcement and rescue work. Its configuration includes hydraulic steering, a center console, enhanced lighting and safety features, upgraded fuel‑system components, and secure storage and battery compartments. These additions are intended to improve reliability during long patrol shifts and ensure deputies have the equipment they need during emergencies on the water.
Once the new vessel is delivered and placed into service, the Sheriff’s Office plans to make the outgoing boat available for purchase by local public‑safety agencies or, if not claimed, list it for public sale.
With the new boat, the Water Patrol Division expects improved performance, greater safety, and a more dependable platform for serving residents who rely on Rice County’s rivers and lakes for recreation and transportation.
