The U.S. Coast Guard, in partnership with the RCMP Federal Border Integrity Program, has launched the Olympic Shiprider pilot program in waters off the Pacific Northwest coast to enhance security operations during the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver, B.C.

Marine law enforcement vessels will be jointly crewed by specially trained and designated U.S. and Canadian law enforcement officers authorized to enforce the law on both sides of the international maritime boundary, while respecting the sovereignty of both nations.

The 21st Winter Olympics opens Feb. 12 and continues through Feb. 28. About 80 nations are expected to be represented.

Megan Managan and Wesley Remmer of The Journal’s sister newspapers Mercer Island Reporter and Central Kitsap Reporter are blogging from the Olympics. You can follow them at

“Passport to Vancouver 2010 | Your guide to Northwest athletes competing in the 2010 Winter Olympics”