Reno, NV ( prsafe ) July 12, 2012 - In response to the enormous popularity of Standup Paddling in the North Lake Tahoe region, the Truckee Police Department is taking a unique approach to interact with residents and visitors in this growing segment of the community. Select police officers will operate situational patrols on standup paddle boards and be present at events where a paddle board is most appropriate. The program, made possible in part by donations and training from standup paddle board manufacturer, TAHOE SUP, is believed to be the first of its kind in the U.S.

As part of the Adventure and Recreation Community (ARC) Team, Police Captain Rob Leftwich views the standup paddle patrol as a way for his officers to emulate what the Truckee community embodies and for the ARC Team to be more educationally based about safety and customer service rather than an increase in enforcement.

"Human powered activities are really important to our community", stated Leftwich. "It is crucial the public understands our officers are people who also live and recreate in our region and want to promote our environmentally friendly, adventurous lifestyle." He goes on to say "The Chief of Police and I are very aware that if we make Truckee an enjoyable experience for residents and visitors, people will keep returning."

Tahoe SUP race team manager, Ronnie Ayres, a former ocean lifeguard and marine safety officer provided instruction on paddling technique, board maneuvering and implementing the officer's safety and lifesaving skills while using the standup paddle boards.

"I really admire the pro-active approach the Truckee P.D. is taking here," said Ayres. "Getting the officers out of their vehicles and onto SUPs illustrates their commitment to a positive community presence in Truckee. It also reflects the growth of standup paddling and it's very fitting they would be the first to use SUPs since this is where it all started for Tahoe SUP, on Donner Lake, five years ago. To learn more about Tahoe SUP, visit http://www.TahoeSUP.com

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