GRAND HAVEN — The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit surprised and delighted beachgoers on Saturday, July 6, when its vessel pumped a huge spout of lake water into the crowds.

Temperatures reached into the 80s the day after the Fourth of July. Beaches were packed, including the Grand Haven State Park and Grand Haven City Beach.

Beachgoers were all smiles and cheers when the marine unit came by and sprayed the coastline. Adults and kids alike ran toward the vessel as a giant burst of water sprayed the crowd. The vessel went up the coastline from the city beach to the state park.

Marine Unit’s Mission: Protecting local waterways

The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit is responsible for patrolling and protecting local waterways, focusing on safety and compliance, according to its website. The unit operates six vessels from the U.S. Coast Guard stations in Grand Haven and Holland. Their primary patrol areas include Lake Michigan, Spring Lake, the Grand River, Lake Macatawa, Crockery Lake and Cranberry Lake.

The Marine Unit emphasizes education and voluntary compliance with marine laws and safety regulations, alongside enforcement. They engage in community outreach through participation in local parades, township fire department open houses, and public education efforts with the Lakeshore Safe Kids Coalition.

During these events, deputies distribute water safety information and life-saving equipment, including over 200 children's personal flotation devices annually.

A recent addition to their educational outreach is the Beach Survival Challenge, an interactive initiative held at Grand Haven State Park focusing on beach and pier safety. Sergeant Reuwer leads the Marine Unit, which comprises full-time and seasonal part-time deputies.

— Heather VanDyke covers northern Ottawa County for the Ottawa News Network. Contact her at newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.