The Marine Unit of the Sheriff's Office patrols the waterways within Leelanau County. Actually, more than one half of the county is located under water (to center of Lake Michigan & West Grand Traverse Bay) and includes four islands! Leelanau has in excess of 100 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 28 square miles of inland lake surface area. In addition to patrols, deputies respond to distress and emergency calls in all weather conditions.
2011 Marine Staff Photo - upper right:
(left to right) Deputy Wayne Kalchik; Commander Charles Belanger; Deputy Patrick Arena, and Deputy Richard Blake
Due to the demands, LCSO works very close with the United States Coast Guard and Department of Natural Resources in addressing situations on the public waterways. Deputies also provide educational services and livery inspections so to enhance safety concerns. "Personal Floatation Devices" are required within each vessel and this law is strictly enforced in Leelanau County.
The State of Michigan funds approximately 75% of the Marine budget.
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