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The Arizona Game and Fish Department has removed a fee charged for watercraft owners to renew their boat or watercraft registrations online.

Removal of the $2.50 Internet transaction fee charged on all watercraft registrations renewed online was done to encourage the state's watercraft users to renew their vessels' registrations on a computer, tablet or smartphone.

"In a recent survey, we asked watercraft owners why they may not be using the Internet service to renew their watercraft registration. The overwhelming response was the Internet fee," said Debbie Rittenback, Arizona Game and Fish Department revenue supervisor. "In that survey our boating community spoke loudly and we have listened. As a result, renewing your boat or other watercraft's registration is now easier than ever."

Those renewing online at http://azgfdportal.az.gov/boating/registration can print out a temporary 30-day registration until their yearly registration is received via mail. Watercraft owners can also continue to renew through mail or in person at an Arizona Game and Fish Department office.

This year there have been 127,796 watercraft registered in Arizona. The figure is a 2.7-percent increase from the 124,425 registered in the state in 2014.

In addition to having the proper registration, watercraft users should consider taking a safety course to ensure they are operating their vessel safely. For more information on boating in Arizona or to sign up for a safety course offered by the Department, visit http://www.azgfd.gov/boating.

Boaters and other watercraft users are also reminded that while in Arizona, all watercraft must have a life jacket aboard for every passenger and those 12 years old and younger must wear a life jacket at all times, under state law.

Users should also check to make sure a life jacket fits properly by referring to the manufacturer's label, which should include a recommendation for the user's size and weight. Once wearing the life jacket, make sure there is no excess room above the openings of the jacket and that it does not ride up over the chin or face.