Orange Beach, AL — Four Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Troopers have successfully completed the Agency’s Marine Patrol Boating School, preparing them to serve on Alabama’s waterways as boating activity increases heading into the spring and summer months.
Three of the Troopers are members of ALEA Trooper Class 2025-B, who graduated from the ALEA Training Center in October 2025. After completing their initial training, each Trooper went through the Field Training Evaluation Program (FTEP) on Alabama’s roadways before advancing to specialized marine patrol instruction. The fourth Trooper transitioned into the program from ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division.
The Troopers graduated on Friday, March 20, following a five-week, hands-on training course held in Orange Beach. The program is designed to equip officers with the knowledge and practical experience necessary to safely and effectively patrol Alabama’s lakes, rivers, and coastal waters.
Each Trooper will now be assigned to different regions across the state. One will serve in the Southern District, one in the Central District along the Alabama River, and two in the Northern District, covering Pickwick Lake and Lay Lake. These assignments are intended to strengthen ALEA’s statewide presence during peak boating season.
During the course, Troopers received instruction in a variety of areas, including boating laws and regulations, vessel stops and investigations, boating under the influence (BUI) enforcement, vessel operations, and night operations. The training emphasized both classroom learning and real-world application.
“These Troopers have already proven themselves on Alabama’s roadways, and now they are stepping into a new role protecting our waterways at a critical time of year,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “As boating activity increases across the state, their training and commitment will help ensure the safety of everyone enjoying Alabama’s lakes, rivers and coastal areas.”
Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety, also addressed the graduates, encouraging professionalism and initiative in their new assignments.
“The key to success in Marine Patrol is simple, get on the boat and go to work,” said Archer. “Treat people with respect, stay engaged and take pride in what you do. You control your attitude every day. Negativity can spread quickly, but so can positivity, and that’s what we expect you to carry forward as you serve on Alabama’s waterways.”
ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division continues to focus on promoting safe and responsible boating practices while protecting the state’s natural resources. Officials encourage all boaters to follow safety regulations, wear life jackets, and avoid operating vessels under the influence.
