Operation Dry Water

Just as the Minnesota State Patrol will have extra troopers on the roads this 4th of July weekend, the Minnesota DNR will have extra patrols on the water. DNR Officers will be on Minnesota lakes and rivers from July 4th through the 7th as part of Operation Dry Water.  That’s a nationwide campaign that highlights the dangers of boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.  Boating while intoxicated is the leading contributing factor of boating accidents and fatalities in Minnesota and the US.  Minnesota has strong laws related to boating while intoxicated.  Anyone convicted of operating a boat, motor vehicle or recreational vehicle loses their right to operate one of those.  The DNR encourages you to wear a life jacket when you’re boating.  Many times, someone who falls overboard dies because they weren’t wearing a life jacket.