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Led by Sergeant Ryan Bogardus, the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office Airboat Unit is a highly specialized team trained to handle search and rescue, emergency response, and law enforcement missions in the region’s most treacherous waterways, marshlands, and icy terrain. Supported by a dedicated and skilled crew, this unit operates state-of-the-art equipment to reach areas inaccessible by traditional vehicles, ensuring rapid response during floods, ice emergencies, and environmental crises.
Key Responsibilities
✔ Search & Rescue (SAR) – Locating and extracting individuals from remote or hazardous aquatic environments.
✔ Ice & Cold Water Recovery – Responding to emergencies on frozen lakes and rivers during harsh winters.
✔ Law Enforcement Patrols – Monitoring waterways for illegal activity and ensuring public safety.
✔ Disaster Response – Assisting in evacuations and supply transport during floods and natural disasters.
✔ Training & Preparedness – Regular drills in swift-water rescue, ice operations, and navigation.
Meet the Leadership
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Sergeant Ryan Bogardus – A Navy veteran with advanced training in Marine Law Enforcement and emergency operations.
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Deputy Kyle Field – A skilled navigator and emergency responder specializing in remote-area extractions.
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Highly Trained Crew – Comprised of deputies and rescue specialists trained in advanced first aid, survival tactics, and airboat operations.
Safety Tips for the Public
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Ice Safety: "No ice is 100% safe!" Check thickness, avoid solo travel, and carry emergency spikes.
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Boating Safety: Always wear a life jacket and file a float plan with loved ones.
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Emergency Protocol: If stranded, call 911 and stay visible—the Airboat Unit can reach you where others can’t.
Community Engagement
The Airboat Unit participates in:
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Public safety demonstrations at schools and community events.
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Training collaborations with NY State Police, Coast Guard, and fire departments.
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Media outreach to share rescue stories and prevention tips.
