FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  6 June 2005

        NORTH CAROLINA SIGNS BOATING AGREEMENT WITH USPS

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with United States Power Squadrons (USPS) in which both parties agree to pursue common goals in the furtherance of recreational boating safety and enjoyment.

        The MOU spells out and formalizes individual and joint responsibilities for each organization.  Paramount in the agreement is an emphasis on safe boating education and compliance with specific laws and regulations of North Carolina.

        Signing the agreement at a recent USPS Governing Board were WRC Executive Director Richard B. Hamilton, North Carolina's Boating Law Administrator, and USPS Chief Commander G. Leslie Johnson.

        United States Power Squadrons is the nation's largest non-profit organization devoted to safe boating education.  All of the more than 450 USPS squadrons in 33 districts throughout the country teach a public boating course.

        Offered to the general public are three USPS basic courses:  its flagship 16-hour "Squadron Boating Course," an 8-hour "Boat Smart" course, and an online "America's Boating Course."  For more information, visit the organization's website, www.usps.org.

        All USPS public courses meet and exceed the minimum requirements of the National Association of Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).  North Carolina's WRC is a member of that national governing body.

        Based in Raleigh, N.C., United States Power Squadrons now has similar MOUs with 40 states to date.  Last year USPS celebrated its 90th anniversary.
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