The Will County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit was established in 1995 at the request of local residents, marina operators and area boaters. The objective of this specialized unit is to enforce boating laws regarding safe operation and required equipment, provide aid or assistance to boaters in distress, and promote on water safety through educational programs.

Funding for the Marine Unit is unique, as cost to the taxpayers are minimal. The 22 foot patrol craft was donated to the County along with a mooring slip. Local marinas, yacht clubs, residents, and boaters alike, have donated considerable sums of money for fuel and equipment. The Marine Unit typically patrols the Kankakee River and DesPlaines River in the southwest corner of Will County, as the greatest number of recreational users are concentrated in this area.

Several boating safety classes are offered during the year to teach the basic "Rules of the Road". For information regarding a boating safety class, call the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Division of Education, at 1-800-832-2599, or the Will County Sheriff's Office, Sergeant Dave Sullivan, at 815-727-8575 for further information.