WAVERLY, Ohio — South-central Ohio soon will have a new location to learn about boating and water safety.


What You Need To Know

  • ODNR is building a new boater education center at Lake White State Park

  • The new building will include a 2,020 square-foot park shelter and more

  • The building will host education courses for new boaters and will be available for community use

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources announced Wednesday the building of a new boater education center at Lake White State Park.

“I’ve loved seeing more Ohioans on our lakes and rivers over the past few years, rediscovering an appreciation of the water,” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said in a press release. “While boating can offer quality family time, new boaters mean more people need to learn the ins and outs of operating these vessels. We are excited to be able to provide that with this new education center.”

The new building will include a 2,020 square-foot park shelter with storage rooms, restrooms, patios and a pavilion area.

The building will host education courses for new boaters and will be available for community use. Classes will include topics such as operating safely, legal requirements, water sports and what to do in a boating emergency.

Anyone operating a boat in Ohio powered by more than 10 horsepower must provide proof of boater education. ODNR offers study guides to help people meet those requirements.