What is DSPS (Dallas Sail & Power Squadron)?

What is USPS (United States Power Squadrons)?

USPS is a nationwide fraternity of boaters devoted to perpetuate and encourage a high amateur standard of skill in the handling and navigation of yachts, power and sail; to encourage and promote the study of the science and art of navigation, seamanship and small boat handling; and to stimulate members to increase their knowledge of and skill in yachting, through instruction and self-education and participation in marine sports activities and competition.

Organized in 1914, USPS is a non-profit, educational organization dedicated to making boating safer and more enjoyable by teaching classes in seamanship, navigation and related subjects. Our members are boating families who contribute to their communities by promoting safe boating through education. We enjoy participating with our fellow members on the water and in the classroom. USPS has some 60,000 members organized into 450 squadrons across the country and in some US territories. USPS is the world's largest non-profit boating organization and has been honored by three US presidents for its civic contributions.

What are the activities of USPS?

Each squadron's activities involve the three primary objectives of USPS: community service, continuing education, and enjoying the friendship and camaraderie of our fellow members.

What community and civic services does USPS perform?

Local squadrons offer boating safety courses on a regular basis to boaters in our communities. These courses are open to the public and there is no age limit for participants. USPS squadrons have offered these courses for over half a century and have educated more than 3 million boaters to date. Successful completing a USPS boating safety course meets the educational requirements for boat operation in all states and is a requirement for squadron membership. Our members also help the National Ocean Service keep our nautical charts accurate by reporting chart corrections, and our local squadrons participate in many other community improvement projects.

What educational courses are available to USPS members?

Every squadron offers many carefully planned courses in subjects like Seamanship, Piloting, Plotting and Position Finding, Celestial Navigation, Cruise Planning, Engine Maintenance, Marine Electronics, Sailing, and much more. These courses are taught by experienced member instructors, and members who complete them are recognized.

What social activities do members enjoy?

Participating both on-the-water and off with fellow members who are skilled in boating is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. On-the-water activities include cruises, rendezvous, sail races, navigation contests and even fishing derbies. Activities ashore include meetings with marine programs, parties, dinner-dances, picnics and field trips.

Can sailors become members?

Of course. Approximately half of our members are sailors. The term "Power Squadrons" in our name dates to our founding in 1914 by the power boat division of the Boston Yacht Club. Following the first World War, our ranks broadened to include all types of boats, and sailors have been a major part of USPS ever since.

How does one become a member of USPS?

Active membership in USPS is open to those 16 years and over who have passed the USPS Boating Course or Boat Smart examination (or equivalent), and who are able and willing to contribute time, energy, and skills to the objectives of USPS.

How do you enroll in a USPS boating course?

The easiest way to determine when the next course will be offered is to call the Dallas Sail & Power Squadron at 214-582-DSPS (214-582-3777), or contact the USPS national headquarters toll-free at 1-888-FOR-USPS (1-888-367-8777).

What about the person who cannot take an evening Boating Course?

USPS has an 80-minute video Boating Course which can be taken at your own leisure. For information see our online information or call 1-888-FOR USPS (1-888-367-8777). Call today. Or, browse to www.americasboatingcourse.com to access the USPS-sponsored multimedia course, "America's Boating Course." Safe Boating is more fun.

What's in it for you?

• A great variety of courses to choose from: As a USPS member, you and your family can enroll in a great variety of advanced grades and elective courses which are only available to USPS members. These courses include Seamanship, Piloting, Celestial Navigation, Weather, Sail, Engine Maintenance, Marine Electronics and Cruise Planning. In addition, USPS offers more than two dozen self study courses on such subjects as the Water Sports, Boat Insurance, Oceanography, Introduction to Sailing, Preparation for Coast Guard Licensing, and much more.
  
  
• Meeting with other boaters in our area: As a member of a local squadron (and there are approximately 450 squadrons throughout the USA, including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands) you will join with other knowledgeable boaters in your area who are familiar with the local waters, the best anchorages, and marinas and boat repair shops.