The Water Safety Program now consists of nine deputies who perform water safety duties, while on shift and while on over time.  They perform these duties in addition to their regular patrol duties. 

The Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office conducted eleven Water Safety talks educating young children as to safety on the waters in Kandiyohi County. 

During the year there were127 rental boats at the various resorts and County Parks that were inspected.   Approximately 170 buoys were put on the lakes.  Later in the fall approximately 700 thin ice signs were placed in conjunction with the County Highway Department. 

The Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office responded to 25 complaints during the year.  Those 25 complaints included one drowning, two ATV’s through the ice, one motor vehicle drove off the road into the water, and four water accidents.  In addition, lifeguards at County Park 4 saved two individuals that were drowning.  Two boats and 15 motors were stolen during the year.   The two boats were recovered and four of the motors were recovered. Deputies also issued 71 written warnings and 11 arrests or citations. 

The Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office uses for patrolling one 19-foot Alumna Craft patrol boat and one 17-foot Lund patrol boat.   The Sheriff’s Office is also equipped with a pontoon for use in putting out and retrieving navigational buoys, which have a very heavy anchor on them. 

In 2004, Kandiyohi County did receive one $27,000.00 state grant and one $5,000.00 federal grant to be used for water safety enforcement, salaries, equipment, and maintenance.   

The Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office also oversees the lifeguards at the various County Parks.  This includes hiring, staffing, and supervision throughout the year. 

Respectfully Submitted,

Randy Kveene

Chief Deputy

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