The Apache County Sheriff's Office has a deputy assigned to patrol the various lakes in Apache County. The lakes and streams of the White Mountains are well known for their fishing opportunities, especially bass and trout fishing. These activities bring many visitors to our area.
Utilizing funding from the Arizona State Lakes Improvement Fund and the Law Enforcement Boating Safety Fund, the Sheriff's Office is able to operate a Boating Safety enforcement program on the lakes of Apache County. Several Sheriff's Deputies are certified in Boating Safety and Watercraft Enforcement. The Boat Patrol is regularly seen at Lyman Lake, Big Lake and Nelson reservoir as well as the other areas frequented by fishermen and boaters. These deputies work closely with AZ Game and Fish officers as well as US Forest Service law enforcement personnel.
The Sheriff's Office recently placed into operation a new patrol boat, thanks to funding provided through the grants mentioned above. This new watercraft gives the Sheriff's Office several options for waterborne patrol and rescue, depending on the location. It also allows for more than one patrol to be in operation during busy periods on our lakes.
